Image via YouTube

If you're into comedy as much as I am - which is almost impossible - then you need to know about Rich Shydner.

The image above is from his 1990 HBO One Night Stand Special, which is where I first discoverd him. I'm not 100% sure that the material will hold-up today, but I still remember (and in my head recite) the punchline "Canyon Man" to this day.

As Shydner got older, he stated doing less stand-up, but to some degree, that changed during the making of the movie I Am Comic which was where I rediscoverd him. Shydner was in Comic because during his time away from performing he developed a real skill for capturing the art and life of comedians on the road. He compiled a great book of stories called "I Was Killing" which were related directly to him by the biggest (and most obscure) names in the business. 

Somehow, that led to him deciding he wanted to get back on stage which he did during the "I Am Comic."

Anyway, I bring him up because he's been posting his own road stories on the internet lately and I am WRAPPED! The honesty and humor are at perfect levels in them and they both complement his obvious love of the life and craft.

Check out his Facebook page (LINK) for a lot of them. He also started a new weekly colum at The Comic's Comic (LINK) where stories are also going to show up.

Granted there are "strong themes" and tons of "drug use" but the guy was a giant in the 80's. What else should these stories involve?! 

- Ray

PS. I also have my own funny story ABOUT Ritch, so if you ever see me, feel free to ask!