Reggie watts is one of those performers who can really pull it off as a soloist. Last week at Union Chapel in London he did just that and was absolutely incredible.
Reggie watts live at Union Chapel London 2012
I had an amazing time at the show and found myself literally in tears from laughing so hard. The question is why? What is it about this guy that is so compelling and fascinating? and so damn funny?
Not your normal Beatboxer
Yes, Watts is a beatboxer and pretty good at it, looping himself with a few pieces of simple analog equipment and a mic. But the thing is, his show isn’t about that. He’s not trying to show you what an amazing beatboxer he is or do those corny ‘waka waka’ sounds that everyone is tired of already. He is truly an entertainer. Whatever he does in between his “tracks” is so funny, interesting, thought provoking, that you find yourself not really caring if he’s going to beat box or not. You’re just glued to his act the whole time.
So what are you so good at?
I think Watts has a killer combination of a few great talents and It’s not just one thing. He could very well be a singer (great soulful voice), a stand up comedian with wonderful insights and impeccable comic timing or he could easily be an actor, as his presence is so strong on stage. His stand up style reminded me sometimes of the Flight of the conchords and sometimes a mix of many other stand comedians, from Richard Prior to Eddie Murphy. There’s always something there though, some meaning and some comment on whatever it is he’s on about.
Reggie Watts
Watts makes everyone in the audience think they could be his best friend, and that’s a big part of the magic of a great performer (somebody said Obama?). The show flew by and the London crowd got exactly what they came for – pure entertainment and music from an intelligent, brilliant performer.
Let’s hope he comes back soon to a venue just like that, before they start booking him into the O2.
Here’s some more Reggie Watts
