Checking in with Stephen Lynch
I was surprised to learn that comedic singer/songwriter Stephen Lynch isn't a big fan of comedy.
In fact, the 38-year-old Pennsylvania native, who performs at the Lyric Opera House tomorrow, was wanted to be a professional musician since college.
Instead, Lynch has made a name for himself by combining a little music and a little comedy.
The result? Some raunchy, dirty, nasty (but funny) songs ...
"I didn't set out to become a comedian," he said. "I still don't think I have a real knack for it. I just happen to have found this really small window of opportunity that allows me to play music and use whatever skills I have at being funny."
In 2006, Lynch starred in the Broadway adaptation of "The Wedding Singer." He liked the show, but not the schedule, which had him performing eight (8) times a week. Given the chance, he wouldn't do it again, he said.
"It was a once-in-a-lifetime thing," he said. "The schedule's too brutal for my delicate sensibilities. ... Toward the end, I was secretly wishing for its demise so I could get back to doing what I like to do."
I've been The Baltimore Sun's nightlife and local entertainment reporter for a couple years, and it's surprising how much the scene has grown in that time. Most of Baltimore's bars and clubs are unpretentious places with fairly cheap drinks and plenty of character. I like dancing and think this city needs more clubs, but nothing beats having a cold, locally brewed beer with friends in a comfortably full corner bar.
Comments
Nice interview. I saw him play at the Recher a few years ago, and he was fantastic. I had never heard of him before that show (a friend got the tickets) but loved every minute of it.
I had actually forgotten about him until your post; it's not really the kind of stuff I would listen to every day. I'm definitely rooting for him to make a serious album because he's a fantastic singer and has a good sense for songwriting. I guess we'll see.
Posted by: Dave F | November 5, 2009 9:17 AM
I know him entirely from Comedy Central shows. At first hilarious/funny and then tedious. Kind of mean-spirited.
In general Guitar + Comedy = unless you are Steven Wright, Demetri Martin or Mike Birbiglia because the guitar is an adjunct and not a partner/crutch
Exemption for Zak Galafanakis, re: piano
Posted by: Owl Meat Gravy | November 5, 2009 10:42 PM
Great post. We just love seeing him playing songs. He is the superstar and god of music.
Posted by: r4 ds | November 6, 2009 5:40 AM
"At first hilarious/funny and then tedious."
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And that's why I'd really like to see him branch out. I have a copy of the "Live at the El Rey" DVD but only watch it once or twice a year. I don't have any of his albums, so I can't speak to how his music comes across in that medium. He has amazing stage presence though, and I can never get over how fun his harmonies are with Mark Teich.
But, as you said, the comedy part (although brilliant) will probably get old soon, if it hasn't already. Frankly, I think he's got what it takes to be a great singer/songwriter; he just needs to step out of his comfort zone and take the chance. Easier said than done, though.
Posted by: Dave F | November 6, 2009 9:39 AM