Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Radio show interview!


Me and my buddy David Van Keuren had the opportunity to be on this great show called Legends radio.   The Show is run by Evan Ginzburg (As seen on the right)  and we met him at the Film screening event we held in NYC. Evan is the Associate Producer of the critically acclaimed film "The Wrestler" as well as a radio show host. I am very thankful for this opportunity and was amazed at the people they had before. Some of the people were Paul Moony, David Allen Grier, Norm McDonald, and Billy Corgan. This was a great experience and had a lot of fun doing it. Neko White was also interviewed and did a great job. Here is the link to the  interview, were close to the end around 1hr:50 - http://legendsradio.net/?p=527

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Working on a Bio



Ricardo Herrera is a Brooklyn born comic, filmmaker, writer and a senior at Buffalo State College majoring in Television and Film Arts,a selective interdisciplinary program that accepts only 15 students anually.  He has interned at the television network Bravo and production company Engel Entertainment. In 2010, two of Ricardo’s short films which he wrote were nominated for best short film at Buffalo State College. He is the Producer of a short Documentary called, “One Mic” and short film “Legerdemain”. In October of 2011, "Legerdemain" won the “Audience Choice Award” for best film at the SUNY (State University of New York) Film Festival. In 2011, Ricardo was nominated for a selective internship at Comedy Central. Ricardo is finishing his degree at Buffalo State College and anticipates a December graduation.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

NYC FILM SCREENING/COMEDY EVENT!


November 4th I was apart of a film screening/comedy event where they showed my Documentary "One Mic" and Short Film "Legerdemain".  They also showed a great Documentary called "Underground Symphony"by Natasha Rivera. The event took place at a great place called Gizzis located at 16 West 8th street. I also performed comedy at the event with Neko White. I had a great time, it meant a lot to me for a lot of reasons. One reason is I haven't performed comedy in the city since I first started and met Neko White at the Laugh Lounge Two years ago. Another reason was my supporters from the city finally saw me perform live and my film projects. It was a special night of love, support and positive vibes. It was great to see my Junior High School math teacher there supporting the event. Also my High school English teacher was there and she still looked sexy as hell! lol. My cousin came also, as well a High School friend who came from New Jersey. The event was amazing and Im glad people had a great time. I felt like a famous person, people wanted pictures and autographs. Signing my first autograph was amazing I was in awe! Then I realized I can get use to this! lol. Overall the night was amazing, and I loved it. I was so happy. Special shout out to my right hand man and great friend David Van Keuren. David is the Director of "One Mic" and Legerdemain". Me, David and the rest of the crew worked so hard on these projects. It was definitely worth the cold, hungry, broke nights working on these films. Thank you to everyone who came out and showed your support it really meant a lot to me and I really appreciate it so much! Also thank you to Evan Ginzburg who made this event possible along with everyone who helped with it. This is just a taste of many more great events to come of me chasing my dream!
















Monday, October 31, 2011

Press Release!




Here is an article talking about our film "Legerdemain" which won the "Audience Choice award" for best film at the Suny Film Festival.

http://newsandevents.buffalostate.edu/news/student-film-takes-prize-suny-wide-festival#.Tq6nW95S9_I.facebook

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Homo Thug "Peaches"


Premiering December 3rd at the "All this" Sketch comedy show at Buffalo State College. Peaches and his crew will be showing the video to his hit song "Straight outta the closet"

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Donnell Rawlings "Ashy Larry" from the Dave Chappelle show talking about comedy

Here is a hilarious video when we were shooting "One Mic" of Donnell Rawlings "Ashy Larry" From the Dave Chappelle show talking about comedy. Please check out the Documentary "One Mic" if you haven't!

One Mic - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhSw-eWGMGg



Meeting Spike Lee



I had the opportunity to meet with Spike Lee and introduce him to the school. Here is the email I sent to a writer from Buffalo State College explaining that moment. 

"The meet and greet with Spike Lee was one of the best moments of my life. We spoke briefly about Brooklyn, where we both are from and what I done so far majoring in Television and Film Arts. Introducing him was a great honor this is a man that I looked up to. We both have similar stories of growing up in bad neighborhoods which didn't stop us to chase our dreams. Hearing Spike speak about his life was definitely inspiring because I could relate to it. It also made me realize that I am on the right track so keep working hard and do what you love. I am very thankful and blessed for the opportunity of Meeting Spike Lee and for the success I had so far as a Comedian, Writer, and Filmmaker. Being in this Major I done things I would of never imagine. For example interning at the Television Network Bravo, Engel Entertainment, and meetings with Comedy Central. Now I can add this moment of meeting Spike Lee to the list. All this became possible due to a man that believed in me and that is Jeffrey Hirschberg. I want to thank everyone who made that event with Spike Lee possible. That is a moment I will always remember and I really appreciate it."

Check out the article I was quoted on! 

http://newsandevents.buffalostate.edu/news/spike-lee-meets-student-filmmakers#.Tos4KwSIsX8.facebook

OUR FILM WON!!!!


GREAT NEWS!!!! OUR FILM "LEGERDEMAIN" WON THE OFFICIAL "AUDIENCE SELECTION" AWARD AT THE SUNY FILM FESTIVAL!!! WE HAD THE MOST VOTES WOW! IM VERY EXCITED THANK YOU SO MUCH TO EVERYONE WHO WATCHED THE FILM AND SUPPORTS ME. A SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO MY TEAM ON ALL THE HARDWORK! AMAZING


Monday, August 22, 2011

The Journey



Music became my soul mate and comedy became my wife. Struggling and chasing the dream now that became my life. Learned from the wise took notes from the best. Always reminded who I am by the art that's on my chest. Mistakes became lessons and pain turned into blessings. My thoughts are my worst enemies when I'm stressing. They tell me keep grinding I'm on the right track. I'm running in the wild with footprints to trace back. Because If I can do it you can do it to. The only thing stopping you ........... is YOU. I told my dream get ready for a beating cuz I'm running, I'm swimming, I'm punching and I'm kicking, Motivation is what I'm drinking. Success is what I'm seeking. I'm addicted to the feeling, get hungry when I'm near it, failure is what I'm fearing. But it won't be an option cuz imma die trying.

F R I E N D S



Looks like the true meaning of friendship has change. We was all once close but things got all strange. 
My eye doctor said read the letters on the wall F R I E N D S "Friends" 
but to me that word didn't make sense. 
Up close it was blurry and from a distance it disappeared. 
Had dinner with death and we talked about my Fears. Told him my story and he cried black tears. 
Gave me a warning & will visit in 65 years.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Interview with Comedian/Actor/Writer Joel James


Meet the funny and a good comedy friend of mines Joel James. I had the opportunity to interview him so check it out! 


What is Comedy to you?


Comedy to me is me.. it's what and who I've always been. I never wanted to be a comedian, I didn't think being funny was a talent because it's who I am. I can do a perfect impression of my ex's Ruerto Rican mother not to put on a show and get paid it's just what i did, until at the family reunion I have 500 Puerto Ricans crowded around me laughing it's time to get paid.. Puerto Ricans are so cheap BTW lol

How Long have you been doing Comedy?


I started In theater at The Geva Theater at 16 and started doing stand up comedy when I was 19 so 8 years now wow.

Any Advice?


Be yourself don't be Kevin Hart don't be Jerry Seinfeld be you! and reach for the stars the business of comedy is bigger than just doing stand up comedy. stand up is probably my least favorite aspect of being a comedy, I love writing and Directing comedy.

Best moment in comedy?


My Best moment is a show in stand up comedy is making these group of girls cry FROM LAUGHTER literally crying I'm like WTF. my best moment in Acting and Writing and Directing would have be my short film "Blind Date Bliss" (GTKM) it was my first time in the film world and I think I did a really good job.


MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT JOELJAMES.NET, FOLLOW HIM ON TWITTER @JoelJamesComedy , AND HIS HILARIOUS SHORT FILM DEBUT "BLIND DATE BLISS"



Tuesday, August 2, 2011

One Mic


Here is a Documentary I produced called "One Mic" The story of 17 year old Neko White, the youngest working comedian in the NYC comedy scene.

Get Serious Productions - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Get-Serious-Productions/223194607694262?sk=wall

Neko White Like Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Neko-White/168402376549752

Director: David Van Keuren - http://davidvankeurenabout.blogspot.com/
Producer: Ricardo Herrera - http://rhcomedy.com/
Editor/ Camera Operator - Kraig Adams - http://www.kadamsmedia.com/
Director Of Photography - Gabe Simon

One question interview with Comedian Tony Rock





I had a one question interview with Comedian Tony Rock today on Twitter and for those who don't know who he is here is a quick Bio. Tony Rock is an American actor and stand-up comedian. He is the younger brother of comedian Chris RockTony Rock had his own TV series, a sketch comedy show called The Tony Rock Project.  Also was Featured on "Comedy Central Presents" Season 14.
Every week Tony Rock plays a 20 question game with his followers on Twitter. You can ask him anything and he will answer it honestly. I decided to play and was lucky enough to have my question answered.



Tony Rock
RT What is comedy to you? [Everything. My love, therapy, expression, artistry, job, fun]
Soon after Comedian Earthquake added one more suggestion to Tony Rock answer. 
Earthquake
RT  RT What is comedy to you? [Everything. My love, therapy, expression, artistry, job, fun]<nd my main BITCH
I Definitely recommend following these two funny comedians @TONYROCK and @RealEarthquake


Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Interview with local Comic Pudge Fernandez!


Pudge Fernandez is a very funny local NYC comic. He is also a great friend and mentor of mines. Pudge  was the person who broke my comedy cherry!  He gave me a great supportive introduction as I walked up to the stage for the first time to perform. Check out this quick interview! 


What Has influence your comedy?


Here is part two of the Comedy Central story for those who are interested. I decided to put up the second  essay I had to write to them. The question was What has influence your comedy? I wanted to show them that I was a student of comedy as I watched and studied from the greats. Also talk about people that made a difference in my life. So here is the essay! my next post will be on how I found out about the decision, the things that was going on in my life around that time, and how I took that hit and kept moving forward as it made me stronger and wiser.

Ricardo Herrera
Rickherrera88@gmail.com
2- What has influenced your writing and how?
As a student of comedy; people, shows, experience and my environment have influenced my writing at different stages of my life. Growing up without cable TV, I watched “The Wayans Brothers”, “Mad TV”, “Full house”, and “Family Matters”. These shows played a part into molding my comedic humor. I would try to imitate specific characters from those shows for friends and family and go to my room to write a funny story. When I was ten, I was fascinated by the tapes I found in my brother’s apartment, and surprised they weren’t porn. I found episodes from the television sitcom “Martin”, and a stand up performance from Eddie Murphy’s “Delirious”. I wanted to do what those guys were doing.
From that day on everything I watched was comedy; from Mel Brooks, to Woody Allen, to “Dave Chappelle’s Show” and Andy Dick. It wasn’t until my senior year of high school, that I realized majority of shows were scripted. I thought everything was improvisation and all you had to do was write an idea. After High school I started a book of ideas and wrote stories about them.
My Second year of college was the most influential on my writing. I met with Jeff Hirschberg, the Director of the Television and Film Arts Program at Buffalo State College. Jeff taught me about the format of storytelling and scriptwriting. He guided me through the process of turning ideas into stories. I bought a book on scriptwriting and started taking classes in the major before I was accepted into the program. In the scriptwriting class, I wrote my first short film script about a pimp in a wheel chair named Mickey “Slap a ho” Daniels. This was a great moment for me because I finally wrote something that was presentable and professional. I incorporated what I learned about storytelling and used it on stage. In the summer of 2009 I was born as a comedian and was obsessed with the art form. I started doing standup in New York and continue doing my routines as a student at Buffalo State. I travel by bus two hours each way to perform in comedy shows and to attend my classes. I am still influenced by comedians I see who are part of the day-to-day grind of the business. It was interesting how difficult it was to write a story, as well as presenting it on stage and television. I learned that a script is a living document and doing revisions is a must. With research, I discovered the history of comedy as well as the comedians before me like Lenny Bruce, Freddie Prince, Dick Gregory, and John Leguizamo. I wanted to learn everything about comedy and who influenced whom. Recently, I visited the Paley Center of Media and I spent hours watching old shows and stand up performances. I realized that comedy became a turning point in my life, and it dictated direction of my future. I don’t regret the good or the bad that has happened in my life. I took everything for what it is, and use that as motivation to chase my dream. 

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Comedy Central


Months ago I had one of the biggest opportunities in my life which I am very proud of. I was nominated to apply to this tough selective internship. In this internship I would intern as a comedy writer and got paid to do it. It was a long process of writing, and recommendations. I did not land the internship but I am very honored and proud I was nominated. It shows my hard work is paying off. The story behind why I didn't get the internship is a long one itself showing how rude the industry can be. I will explain the story in my next post, telling you the process of getting nominated, me finding inspiration to write and everything leading up to the final decision. I had to dig deep when I wrote "Why I wanted to become a comedy writer". I wanted them to know how much comedy means to me so I gave them a piece of me in that letter. I decided to share one of the letters. I hope who ever read this will be motivated or inspired to keep chasing their dreams.  You have to have tough skin in this industry and the only way to build that is by taking these hits. Like I always say you keep hitting and I'll keep chasing. So here is the first letter I wrote.

Ricardo Herrera
Rickherrera88@Gmail.com
1-    Why do you want to become a comedy writer?
A few years ago on a cold night in Brooklyn, my friend José Quinones was shot to death just before Christmas. I realized we all have choices. Comedy has kept me from engaging in a lifestyle that could have a negative impact on my life. Growing up in the projects made a life of crime more accessible than becoming a comedian or writer. The ability to make someone laugh is fascinating to me. When I discovered I was able to do that to people, it was something I wanted to keep pursuing. Comedy is like my big brother, it got me out of a lot of situations. The bullies stop bullying me because I was funny. The girls started noticing me because I made them laugh. I get a great sense of joy entertaining people, whether performing or writing my sketches. I quickly learned that comedy is one of the most serious businesses in entertainment; it’s more than just telling jokes on a page or a stage. You basically succeed and fail in public. I need to constantly practice and write. I was attracted to the discipline of writing comedy and performing. There are factors that you need to consider before you grab the mic on stage.  It’s like you’re in control of your own destiny. The moment I performed standup for the first time I knew this is what I wanted to do. I wanted to be a part of the comedy world, writing, entertaining and performing. John Vorhuas wrote in his book The Comic Toolbox, “Comedy is pain and pain is comedy.”  I took the worst days of my life and made them the funniest. Writing and performing is therapy for me, it’s my escape from everything. Before doing stand up or being accepted to the Television and Film Arts major, which is a selective interdisciplinary program that accepts 15 students per year, my family and when I say family, I actually mean my Mother and sister; because my father left me when I was seven to become a fulltime dead beat dad. We were the second Hispanic family living in Van dyke projects located in Brownsville. Brownsville was a predominately African American area, so we quickly learned how to eat fried chicken with the best of them. Also the film Brooklyn’s Finest was shot in my town for its beautiful cinematography of violence, blood and dark gloomy buildings. My friend Carlos, from the only other Hispanic family in the neighborhood and I, would always joke around, write funny ideas and perform for our friends at school. We then became known as the funny white kids. Growing up poor and in a crime-ridden area made me who I am today. Comedy took the misery in my life, and turned it to laughter for others to enjoy. I am 23 years old and I have done things that I never dreamed of doing. Interning at the television network Bravo in the summer of 2010 was one of them. I sent three hundred letters to television networks in New York requesting informational meetings to learn about the entertainment industry. I expected to get one interview, but with my persistence and focus, I ended up with nine; at networks like, MTV, Vh1, and Bravo. At Comedy Central, I was fortunate enough to meet with Sam Grossman, V.P. of Programming. In the end, I had internship offers from Vh1, Bravo, and MTV. I chose Bravo, and I also told myself I will be meeting with Comedy Central again in the future. One year later I’m here writing this letter to you.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

"Im Not a Feen"


I was on the train and saw something that inspired me to write.

"I'm Not a Feen"

I once met a guy that his heart was golden and every year that went by it began to darken. Everywhere he went people judged him and every time he spoke people ignored him. Walking past people but for them he don't exist. This man grew up fatherless. If he died today he won't be miss. This man had dreams and big goals to but you won't know because you won't take time to.
Listen to a voice that became voiceless. To look into the eyes of a man starving. He tries not to be rude as he walks by you asking for money or food. You just look at him like he was a statue but don't even dare to give a dollar or two. Always remember this could be you. He struggles to walk with his leg disorder, he finds happiness in a garbage can soda. Another hungry morning another starving night. Unbearable pain from his disjointed legs but still he finds the strength to plea and beg. My advice to you is don't judge when you don't know because the 3 year old next to me just gave him his oreos.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

James Brown tribute concert!

Yesterday I went to BB Kings to see a James Brown tribute concert by Charles Bradley and his awesome band. This concert was AMAZING! I loved every minute of it. His impersonation, wardrobe, facial expressions, dancing, everything was on point. I really felt this was the real James Brown. I never got the chance to see the real God Father Of Soul live and this concert was as close as it gets. Sometimes I wish I was born in the times when music was great like this. People tell me I have an old soul, I don't care what it is I just love and know what's GOOD MUSIC. I was glued to Charles Bradley performance and after I left I kept talking like James Brown. I went to McDonalds  and said "Im ready to do my thang, can i get a number 1! (Singing) seeeeweeeeooooooooo! ...........  HEH!" Overall I had a blast and it was great to see my two friends enjoy it as much as me. Check out the video on the blog its basically what I saw last nigh. Word of advice before I go Support the arts and go do different things, the club and liquor will always be there ................ HEH!

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Sorry


In case you was wondering this is not a picture of me as a baby. This is a regular google image of a sad brown baby lol; and no I did not type in the google search bar "Brown baby sad". I have neglected my blog for quite some weeks and I am truly sorry to myself and anyone that was a fan of this blog. I've been very busy for the past four months with personal life and working on 3 film projects. But! im back and I took this week off to relax, think, and enjoy life and I absolutely hate it! lol. I am losing my mind with this free time. Yesterday I borrowed my niece toy carriage and baby doll. I went to central park and walked with random white people with kids just to do something (Dont judge me). People I am running out of things to do! My mom broke her wrist 2 weeks ago so now she has a cast on her arm. She came to me and said "Ricky! write sumshing on mi cast" So I took the marker and drew a big black dick on it. I said "Thats for making me go to school with those fake ass sneakers that said "Air" in bold letters, with a popped bubble in the back. It sounded like someone with bad asthma every time I walk. As you can see this week has been great for me : ). I did owe this week to myself before I start to work and hit these open mics. I would like to say THANK YOU! to everyone who supports me, it really means a lot and I really appreciate it. Once again sorry for taking long to post something. This week I will post the things I was going through the past 4 months like great shows I seen, working on 3 film Projects, and the biggest opportunity I received so far in my life. Heres a hint ............ COMEDY CENTRAL!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Universal Mind Fuck clothing line




Here is an Interview with Isaac A, The creator of the "Universal Mind Fuck" clothing line. Which is picking up buzz at the Buffalo State College.

Monday, March 14, 2011

Meet My friend Cornelius Newman

My friend Neil is a talented writer that goes to Buffallo State College. His poetry and Spoken Word is great and this post is dedicated to one of his poems. I hope you like it enjoy! PS: Check out elmleaves.net formore of his work aswell as local writers from buffalo.

Regenerate

By Cornelius Newman

Lost in temptation confused remised blinded by passion driven
Egotistic about self pursue pleasure and bliss
Measured in death who was I, scarred and marred
Mangled by man my soul was maimed defected defamed
Brought before the counsel detained tortured my spirit
Ridiculed made a spectacle labeled a fool haunted by failure
Mission aborted moral compass distorted my prayers seem rhetoric
Too far you seem in cement shoes chasing dreams
Poverty‘s prodigy a product of humility
Seeking reparations for depravation I‘m breathing for you
Resuscitated inhaling greatness I offer this life
What else could I sacrifice so let your essence reside
Crying inside dying inside angels shed tears and dance
Heaven‘s amused gazing with pity singing the blues optimistically view
My shameless attempt to elude this revolution
They said it will not be televised
But they apparently prophesied through blind eyes
Deceived since my innocence they disseminated lies
Through anesthetized minds yet by the truth they‘re paralyzed
Afflicted many of times since my youth, but yet I still survive.

Young black and gifted my soul deprived I ran but couldn‘t‘ hide
Renounced denied lied and chastised unfaithful and unyielding
Broken but unwilling to be mended
I‘m unfinished business lacking discipline
Poor in spirit yet consumed in pride rich in mercy
Still your grace abides I could have died
But you remain faithful and true you can‘t deny you
With arms stretched wide east to west
Apart from you drawn by love I am a part of you
Forgiven redeemed bound to me for eternity you‘ll never part
Covered in my mother‘s womb skillfully wrought
How precious your thoughts washed in blood
Given clean hands and a pure heart
My life is your canvas this temple your work of art

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Straight Outta The Closet


Here's a character I created called "Peaches". He's a Homo Thug and he is rapping his hit single "Straight outta the closet" using the beat from Straight outta compton by N.W.A. - Enjoy!

Saturday, March 12, 2011

My first applause break!

Here is a video of me doing stand up and receiving my first applause break. This was a special comedy moment for me. I didn't expect it and I didn't know what to do but to say thank you. 


PS: I WANT TO THANK ALL THE PEOPLE THAT SUPPORT ME, I REALLY APPRECIATE IT THANK YOU! : )

Universal Sound

Here is a link to preview my music project ive been working on called "Universal Sound" I named it that because on this album it has something for everybody from pop, rock, dance, and spanish. So enjoy the rough draft of what I got Im still working on each song. Arrange the songs by track number for some reason they alphabatize the songs when you download it.

Leaving Tonight

So it was 12am and I decided to work on my solo music project called "Universal Sound". I started playing the piano, drum beats and I was inspired to make this song called "Leaving Tonight". Here are the lyrics, if you would like to hear a preview of the song post your email and I will send it to you : )

Leaving Tonight

I should of hid my heart from you, like they told me to.
Now my heart is broke in pieces, Only time can heal it.
I wonder can I feel anymore?
Can I love anymore? with the pain you done.
I have no where to run.
Im laying all alone in a room so cold with a million feelings.
I try to ignore the pain but a heart ache is hard to deal with.
looking in my eyes lieing to me.
Fucking with my head confusing me.
Got me feeling crazy, this aint healthy.

Chorus: This time I made up my mind and im, leaving tonight. x4

Friday, March 11, 2011

The Music Of Today


The music you hear on the radio nowadays is duplicated acts that were hot in the 90's. These old acts are being reused for the new generation of kids who don't remember these great Music artists due to being young. No one is teaching the new generation about the great music from years ago, Rap, Soul, R&B, Rock etc. Rick Ross is supposed to be the new biggie, Nicki Manaj is the lil Kim, Lady Gaga is the Madonna, J cole is Nas, Trey Songz is the R Kelly, Asher Roth tried to be Eminem the list goes on. Not to say I don't listen to the music of today, but at least I have a sense of music knowledge. I love music and its part of my everyday life. It really bothers me to hear Rick Ross do his signature grunt in songs, when its clear he stole it from the great Notorious B.I.G. It's ashame that P. Diddy is allowing him to do so, I guess anything goes when money is involved. You have the right to listen to  any music you want, but do some research and build your music knowledge. You will see who influenced whom and appreciate music more. I love listening to music from the past as well as present. I also like learning about the artist musical history, and life experiences. Music has no language its universal.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

The Stand-Up story

The ability to make someone laugh is fascinating to me. When I discovered I was able to do that to people, it was something I wanted to keep pursuing. Comedy is like my big brother, it got me out of a lot of situations. The bullies stop bullying me because I was funny. The girls started noticing me because I made them laugh, which led to me getting ass. I get a great sense of joy entertaining people, whether performing or writing my sketches. As long as I can remember I was a funny person. I guess watching a lot of comedy shows when I was young like "Mad TV", Eddie Murphy, "Full House", and "The Wayans Brothers"it really molded my comedic humor. In my high school I was the class clown cracking jokes all day with my friends and teachers not doing homework. A lot of friends and people I met always suggested  I should pursue stand up comedy. The problem was I was scared, didn't know where to go and what the hell was I going to say. Being funny around your friends is different from being funny on stage and in front of strangers. It was the summer of 2009 I was recovering from a ACL reconstruction surgery on my knee. I was basically miserable laying in bed all day, had no job, broke, and annoyed with my mom. The moment I learned how to walk correctly my main concern was to find something productive to do, to escape my mom and where I lived. I went on google and typed in "Performing stand up comedy" I found websites and clicked on the new talent showcase link. The new talent event was basically "Bringer Shows "which meant, you bring six people who are willing to pay you got five minutes of stage time. I wasn't ready to perform for people I knew because that would make me more nervous.  If I bombed I would rather bomb in front of people I didn't know because I wont see them again. But I decided to still send emails to comedy clubs pertaining about the new talent showcase and how it was my first time. I received emails back and felt more wanted and had a good vibe from the Laugh Lounge comedy. In the Laugh Lounge email I spoke to a guy named Sergio Chicon who is a Comedian and the producer of the new talent showcase. We exchanged a couple of emails and just like that I booked my first amateur comedy show for July 25th. I was shocked that it was that quick (Thats what she said). Feeling nervous and realizing the show was two weeks away I decided to call Sergio to talk to him more on a personal level. We talked for 3 hours about comedy, his experience, my life, his life, etc.. The conversation basically gave me the confidence I needed to finally perform. He suggested I do an open mic to get my feet wet before I do a show. Sergio referred me to his friend Pudge Fernandez who ran an open mic at the Laugh Lounge every monday. At the "Open Mic" you would pay five dollars for five minutes. Sergio also told me he would introduce me to Donnell Rawlings a comedian which I was a big fan of who was on the Dave Chappelle show. Donnell played a memorable character called "Ashy Larry". After hearing this I was so excited and agreed to do it. Sergio also said I can stay to see Donnell perform for free that night but only on one condition, don't act like a "Groupie". After the conversation was over I had the confidence like I was Eddie Murphy. I sent out text messages to all my friends giving out details to my first show. Noticing I had a couple of days until monday and I had to decide what to say on stage. I started to think about everything I said that made people laugh, I even went on youtube and watched some Stand Up for ideas. I was going crazy wondering if the crowd will think I'm funny, how will I perform my jokes. Finally I decided to talk about one of stories About my mom because all my friends loved them. My friends thought my mom was hilarious so I guess I get my funny side from her as well. I wrote down a paper full of jokes thinking I got an hour special, its monday and I'm feeling confident. I put on my fitted "One Night In Brooklyn" shirt, blue jeans and my cool looking Supra shoes. I took the L train to the J and got off at Essex St. I was listening to some Mos Def I was in the zone feeling good, going over the jokes in my head, I was ready. I got to Laugh Lounge met with Pudge, signed up, had a soda then headed down to the open mic. When I got downstairs I freaked, there was a crowd of thirty people. Some were talking, and sitting around waiting for the show. I instantly text my high school friend York telling him the situation and for him to come down. He said he will try to come, which means in Yorks language there 's a big chance he's not coming. I felt if  I bombed at least I will have one laugh by default but now I don't even have that. Pudge came down and went to the stage and spoke on the mic "Welcome everybody to another week at the Laugh Lounge open mic, we have a great show lined up we have about 30 comedians performing!" When I heard this my mouth dropped, I looked like the last lonely kid waiting at the school yard for his parents to pick him up. I thought all those people were regular people from the outside not comedians. I thought to myself it's hard enough to make regular people laugh now I have to do it to comedians. Pudge went on to say "We got some special treats, we got a new comer performing today and we have a documentary crew shooting some sets. So bring your A game because you never know". At this point I got so nervous I had to take a mean dookie out of no where. The show started and I saw some good comedians and a lot of horrible ones which gave me some confidence. Pudge came to me and said "You got two more people ahead of you, relax, just have fun, you'll do fine" Now Im sweating in an Air conditioned area, my heart is pumping and I have to take a even bigger shit (straight water and chunks). If I died at this moment it would be a shitty heart attack literally. But wait it gets better. I looked to my right and I saw my friend York walking towards me with a smile on his face and a corona. At this point I wanted to say to him "Aint shit funny bitch! Why the fuck did you ever tell me to pursue stand up, this aint fun. Im bout to shit myself and why the fuck you here! You were late for everything in your life". Instead I said "Wassup" with a sad puppy face and told him I perform next after these two performers. The last set came to a close and pudge pats me on my back as he walk to the stage. "Alright everyone we have a special treat for you. Our next comic, your gonna love this. Never performed he is being born righhht noooooow. You are popping his cherry (someone in the crowd yells woo!) Give him a lot of love and lot of support cuz we all been there. Everybody put your hands together for Ricky Herrrrrrrrreraaaaaa." I looked over to the documentary crew and noticed there's a red light flashing on the camera which meant they are recording me. The crowd cheers as I walk to the stage with a piece of paper in my hand. I grabbed the mic hoping nothing goes wrong, like the mic blowing up in my hand (knowing my luck). I said "Wow talk about no pressure" Then I told my first joke which was about how my mom got me into jerking off. I had bad acne in my teen years and there was nothing that worked to make it go away so my mom was convinced that jerking off was the solution. I heard the whole room lit up with laughter as I told the joke. The laughs became less and less, Before you know it my time was done and I got off the stage receiving a loud cheer. At this moment I was on what they called "The comedy high" I was feeling good, really happy, people came up to me said "Good Job". It was one of the greatest moments of my life. I went to York and asked him how did I do he said "Yo your first 3 minutes was hilarious you had me and everyone dieing. Then you died down at the end. Next time you should look at the crowd more, you was looking down a lot" I personally don't remember what happen on stage, it was like I blacked out after I heard a laugh. I felt someone tap me on my shoulder as I was talking to York I turned around and it was the guy that was recording me. He asked if he can interview me for his open mic documentary I agreed to it. The rest is history.


PS: THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR ALL THE SUPPORT I REALLY APPRECIATE IT! THANK YOU MOM FOR PRESSURING ME TO JERK OFF BECAUSE THAT STORY MADE PEOPLE LAUGH.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Memories

I was 8 years old when I went upstate with my uncle to see some family on his wife side. The place was very suburban, If you lived there you had money and if you saw a spanish family you knew they were visiting. This place was like Walt Disney world to me. The families that lived there had a big house, a pool in the backyard, a father, things that a kid from Brooklyn wasn't use to seeing. A pool for me growing up was a bathtub full of water with toys in it, or water splashing out from a fire hydrant on a hot summer day. I went to play with the local kids on the block When two white guys approached me. They were the parents of the kids I was playing with. A spanish boy playing with white kids in that area at that time was unheard of like a black president. One of the guys asked me what was my name and I was hesitant to reply; because momma always said "Ricky when a stranger ask you sonting don't say chit! Walk away". I replied and said Ricky. He then asked me where I was from, Embarrassed to tell him I stood quiet. The other white guy laughed and said "leave him alone he's scared, He's probably a poor kid from Brooklyn". They continued to laugh, So I laughed as well not knowing the joke was on me. At that moment I was concerned on one thing. For these guys to leave so I can play with these damn white kids. This was a once and lifetime opportunity, and they were like ancient artifacts to me. After this Im back to playing basketball with Johnny and Tyrone. My uncle came to ask me what was that about. I told him the story and he told me to never be ashamed of where I came from, To forget what happen and to keep playing with the kids.  For some reason this memory stood with me. I'm proud to say that yes I am a poor kid from Brooklyn with dreams and goals. It made who I am today and I am bless and thankful for all the opportunities I receive in life as well the joy I bring to people. Im not doing anything you can't do, chase your dreams they wont chase you.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Working on a short film!

Just got home from working on my friend (David Van Keuren ) short film called "Legerdemain".
I had a great time helping out with the production and afterwards we had a drink, talked about film and personal goals in life.  Overall i got to do what i love and had some drinks after definitely "Good Times". If your wondering the film is about Two pick pockets who meet each other and find out they have more in common than they thought. It's going to be a great short film and I cant wait for you guys to see it. Until then check out his website and browse through his cool stuff Davidvankeuren.com

Shooting a documentary in NYC!

   
Its official! Me and my friends/Production team are heading to New York City to shoot a documentary. Im thinking about calling it "One Mic"and it is about my comedian friend who is 17 years old working the comedy clubs.  He is one of the youngest comedians working the clubs and this kid is funny. I remember meeting him at the laugh lounge in NY when I started doing comedy in 2009. This is a great story to watch and everyone is excited to work on it. I will be posting more about this documentary as I plan it. Here are the members of the production team!

Kraig Adams - Cinematography - http://kadamsmedia.blogspot.com/
David Van Keuren - Director - Davidvankeuren.com
Gabe Simon - Camera Operator - http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1134432079/captivity-a-true-story-about-a-wwii-dutch-pilot-po?ref=live
Rick Herrera - Producer