Renowned Ghanaian comedian Musah Junior, popularly known as MJ the Comedian, has made a bold statement about the art of comedy, asserting that it demands a unique blend of intelligence, skill, and professionalism.
During an engaging interview on Channel One TV’s “The Chat” on June 28, MJ elaborated on the complexities of comedy, emphasizing that it transcends mere joke-telling to become a sophisticated art form replete with wit, timing, and resilience.
He shared a personal anecdote from his debut stand-up show, ‘My Missing Tooth’, recalling how he turned the traumatic experience of losing a tooth in an accident into comedic gold.
“There is comedy in everything,” MJ remarked. “If you aren’t dedicated to the craft, you might miss the humor even in tragic situations, as I did when I lost my tooth. Comedy is not for the ‘fools’ of this world.”
MJ further explained that true comedic talent requires much more than merely being funny. “Standing on stage with a microphone, engaging thousands of people, and making them laugh consistently demands a level of professionalism,” he noted.
Rejecting the stereotype that comedy is exclusively for the unserious, he argued, “Engaging an audience requires sharp instincts and a level of competence.
You might make them laugh the first time, but the real challenge lies in maintaining that energy. There will be days when a joke falls flat, and in those moments, professional skills are essential to bounce back. This is true for comedy, football, and music alike.”
In conclusion, MJ firmly stated, “Comedy isn’t for fools; it’s a realm for insightful individuals who genuinely understand the craft.”
