Today we’d like to introduce you to Keith Jackson.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Keith. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
An only child, I was raised on the south side of Chicago by a no non-sense mother and grandmother.
I was a class clown but never thought being a comedian was in store for me. Often, my friends and I would crack jokes on each other, frequently, one would say you should do comedy because I’d always be the funniest, had the most to say and last man standing. It still never crossed my mind until a veteran comedian said, “you think you’re funny? Let me see you get on stage at Jokes and Notes for an Open Mic Night.” I did and it was an epiphany moment for me. If was nervous yet comfortable and inspired, so I kept going every Wednesday performing and studying until I found my flow and the rest is history.
Here I am, 12 years in and I learned early that my comedic style is to motivate, advise and take the serious things in life and find the humor in them.
Comedy has led me around the world, given me an opportunity to bring laughter into parties, churches, college campuses, comedy rooms, backyards, you name it.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No dream you chase will be smooth or easy. There were definitely times I wanted to give up, but knowing the gift within me, the laughter I bring to others and my ultimate passion for all things comedy, forward I march. I have truly enjoyed this comedy journey and am happy to continue my pursuit.
Many years, I was focused on being funny and not necessarily building a name or branding myself. I knew I left every crowd in tears but I didn’t network and market myself as I should have. By the grace of God, through word of mouth, people have loved my energy and comedic style so I’ve kept busy and been afforded great opportunities to travel and work with some of today’s greatest comedians.
The business end of comedy I’ve learned along the way and am still learning as I go. Today, as I continue to be relevant in a growing field, I also have to be relevant on Social Media.
Comedy is multi-faceted and I’m working all the angles. There have been bumps but the dream and my passion for comedy are more vivid than ever!
Alright – so let’s talk about your work. Tell us about Comedian Big Keef – what should we know?
I AM MY BUSINESS! I am animated, energetic, quick witted, great at improvisation and caring. I sing, write and act. I am multi-talented and believe in assuring ticket buyers have a wonderful time. This sets me apart.
Example: When someone attends one of my shows, when not on stage, I walk the room all night ensuring people are comfortable, have seats, answer questions, bus tables, etc. I believe the total experience should be memorable not just me on stage. I am personable, friendly and genuinely concerned about those who support me.
In addition to me personally performing, I often set up performances for others, connect comedians to work, ghostwrite and write skits.
I have a signature joke, “Fried Hard.” I perform and live my life that way. Fried Hard is derived from cooking something a little longer ensuring extra crispiness… relate that to life and it means going the extra mile, doing that extra thing, even if its sometimes over the top. Fried Hard Everything is my motto. If it’s fried hard, its good, its right.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mother, Alyce Jackson, has supported me every step of this journey with her resources, love and time. She is candid with me and I appreciate it. Nothing feels better than making my mother laugh and knowing she’s in my corner and proud of me.
My wife, Latonia Jackson, has been my confidant and business partner. Together we are branding Comedian Big Keef, hosting shows that keep getting bigger and better and working together to make Comedian Big Keef a household name.
My three beautiful daughters are an inspiration to me, Payton, Amya and Kyla. Because of them, I strive to be the best me possible. They are watching and I want to bring them nothing but honor and have them proud to say I’m their dad… and I’m the funniest person they know.
I am also spiritual and believe all my blessings come from God. He definitely deserves all the credit for my gift and credit for where I am today.
Many of my family, friends and fellow comedians have encouraged me along the way and I appreciate it tremendously. Many have discouraged me and I appreciate them also because they’ve helped me understand there is always room for improvement and work to be done.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.comedianbigkeef.com
- Email: friedhardcomedy@yahoo.com
- Instagram: comedianbigkeef
- Facebook: comedianbigkeef
Image Credit:
ljhampton photography
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
