GSC Interviews: Michael Winslow
Joe Carney of Garden State Comedy interviews Michael Winslow to discuss Michael’s career and his influences such as Bill Cosby, Richard Pryor & Jonathan Winters.
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Michael Winslow: Man of 10,000 Voices Rocked Jersey for a Good Cause!
There are very few people in the world who have not grabbed a microphone or at least cupped their hands together, and attempted to make some incredible and realistic sound effects. Admit it. We have all tried this at one point. But for those who grew up in the 1980’s, we know that there is only one man on the planet who can take the claim as the best human sound effects creator in the world, and that man is Michael Winslow!
The performers of the night, from left; “Big Rich” McDonald, Michael Winslow, Jerrold Benford, Natty Bumpercar, and Joe Carney.
Winslow stopped by the Crossroads in Garwood, NJ on Thursday December 5th, as part of their new Crossroads Comedy Series. Proceeds from the show were given to the Local Garwood Police PBA. From the man who is known to millions as the “Sound Effects guy from Police Academy”, Michael Winslow was happy to help raise funds for local law enforcement.
The Crossroads had a great turn-out on this evening and was literally standing room only. Co-producer of the comedy series, Joe Carney wanted it clear that this was not typical of the quality of room he runs. Carney stated “we would never ask audience members to come into one of our shows and stand. That is not the way to run comedy. But as more people showed up and we explained it was a sold out show, they just wanted to donate to the PBA and didn’t mind standing if it meant getting to see Michael perform!”
Joe Carney handing over the proceeds from the show to the Garwood PBA.
Michael performed for over an hour and his mouth did not stop for one second. He kept the room rocking and laughing the entire time as he made some sound effects and noises most people did not believe were humanly possible. Crossroads Sound Engineer Ben even joked “Winslow goes deeper and harder than some bands I have had in here. I never thought I would have to work so hard for a comedian, haha.”
The night was hosted by Crossroads favorite Natty Bumpercar, and the crowd was immediately brought to laughter by the opening act Jerrold Benford. Featuring on the show were the Dumb Kids in the Back comedy troupe, who performed short-form improv for the crowd. The two man troupe featured Joe Carney and Rich McDonald, and was a hit with the crowd as they brought audience members on stage to participate in games such as Moving People, Couple Game, and Love Letter.
As expected, the highlight of the night was Michael Winslow. He brought the house down with his renditions of Jimi Hendrix and his dubbing of the classic Star Wars. Fans were very excited for the entire show, and then were treated with a performance by NJ based rock band, the JJO’s.
The Crossroads Comedy Series advertises that comedy will be at the venue every Thursday evening. So far, the Crossroads has showcased Rich Vos, Dustin Diamond, Rich Carucci and Jeff Norris. Upcoming shows already scheduled include the nationally touring Comedians At Law, Judah Friedlander, Otto and George, and the GardenStateComedy produced showcase Jersey All-Stars. There will be FREE tickets given to a few lucky winners each month. To be eligible, just sign up for the GardenStateComedy email list!