During a recent interview on Kevin Hart’s Gold Minds podcast, versatile artist Vince Staples opened up about his journey into incorporating comedy into his repertoire. He shared a delightful anecdote about his family, specifically his mother, that shed light on his comedic influences.
Reflecting on his transition to comedy, Staples highlighted the pivotal role small shows played in his realization of his comedic potential. He recalled moments where he performed for intimate crowds, ranging from 40 to 300 fans, and noticed how his humor resonated with his audience. This feedback, coupled with conversations with fans, solidified his interest in exploring comedy further.
Staples credited his family, whom he described as embodying “every stereotype you could pick about Black people in the ghetto of California,” as a significant influence on his comedic sensibilities. In particular, he fondly reminisced about his sister teasing him about being adopted and the playful banter that was a constant in his household.
However, it was his mother’s dark sense of humor that truly shaped Staples’ comedic style. Recounting a hilarious Christmas party incident, where his mother gifted fake lottery tickets to unsuspecting family members, Staples shared a moment that perfectly encapsulated his mother’s mischievous wit. He hilariously described his cousin’s reaction upon believing he had won the lottery, only to discover it was a prank orchestrated by his mother.
Staples vividly recalled his mother’s nonchalant demeanor as she observed the chaos unfold, showcasing her penchant for dark humor. Despite initially finding her antics perplexing, Staples admitted that he has since embraced and incorporated elements of his mother’s comedic style into his own.
Through his candid storytelling, Staples provided insight into the influences that have shaped his comedic journey, revealing a side of himself that fans may not have seen before. As he continues to navigate the intersection of comedy and music, it is clear that Staples’ unique blend of humor and authenticity will continue to captivate audiences worldwide.