It has become impossible to log on to TikTok and not come across a Morgan Jay stand-up clip. The popular comedian and musician has taken off on social media, and for good reason; his specialty is popping into the audience at his shows for some hilariously autotuned crowd work that leaves everyone bursting with laughter.
Before the virality, there was just Morgan’s autotune-less voice, his guitar and an array of pillows on the ground in his first comedy special, I Hope My Ex Doesn’t See This, which was recorded in 2020.
We had the opportunity to chat with Morgan about his rise to fame, how his comedy has evolved over the years and I Hope My Ex Doesn’t See This, which is now available to watch on 800 Pound Gorilla’s YouTube channel!
I Hope My Ex Doesn’t See This is your first stand-up special and we have to ask…did your ex see it?
"I have to imagine at this point she saw it. And if she didn’t see it then she has for sure seen at least one of the many clips I have had go viral."
When did you start performing stand-up? Has your comedy always been musical?
"Started in 2007 with pure stand-up. It wasn't until around 2013 I was slowly transitioning the guitar into the act. It was a scary process but exciting to push myself creatively. Even now the show continues to change and evolve."
Over the last few years, you’ve blown up on social media. When was the moment you realized your comedy was taking off?
"During the Pandemic I had a back log of clips and nowhere to put them so I just started posting them on TikTok. The goal wasn’t to go viral at first. The goal was to just get comfortable posting regularly because it was never in my nature."
How much has your comedy changed since I Hope My Ex Doesn’t See This was recorded?
"If I'm being honest, it has changed dramatically on so many levels. I feel like I’m just a way more confident performer. The show offers so many more flavors than it once did. There’s crowd work, guitar, stand up, spoken word, piano ballads, and (coming soon) a full band experience."
Do you have a favorite moment/performance from this special?
"My favorite moment was the crash out I had regarding all the pillows and blankets. All these people said they were going to show up that didn’t. I was so worried about over filling the space that I didn't allow people to show up."
What is your dream venue to perform stand-up in?
"At this point in my career I have performed at venues I didn’t think were possible. I think for me, like for many comics, the dream place to perform is The Comedy Cellar. I’ve never auditioned or been passed there, but I remember seeing some of my first comedy shows there growing up. When I was at NYU I would even go on dates above the club. It just feels like a special place with so much history."
Where can people catch your upcoming live shows?
"Morganjay.com although these days it's proving difficult for people to grab a ticket cause things are selling out so fast!"
Last but certainly not least, would you rather fight one 800 pound gorilla or 800 one pound gorillas?
"I would never fight a gorilla for they are but peaceful creatures and I would love to hug them like Robin Williams did Coco. But for sure 800 one pound gorillas."