#2377 - Carrot Top

Overview

This episode features a lively conversation with comedian Carrot Top, diving into his career, the evolution of comedy, and his unique approach to prop-based humor. The discussion also touches on the challenges of performing in unconventional venues, the quirks of celebrity encounters, and the broader landscape of entertainment today.

Notable Quotes

- I want my neighbors to know I have a hard dick. – Carrot Top, humorously describing one of his props.

- We live in a world filled with war, famine, and disease, and you want to concentrate on a prop comic? – Joe Rogan, on the misplaced criticism of Carrot Top.

- "If you’re five foot three, wearing stiletto heels, and everyone wants to f** you, you’re doing something right."* – Joe Rogan, on Prince’s unique charisma.

🎭 The Evolution of Prop Comedy

- Carrot Top reflects on his rise as a prop comic, noting how his success inadvertently discouraged younger comedians from pursuing the genre.

- He shares anecdotes about early career challenges, including being dismissed by Johnny Carson’s bookers despite a stellar performance.

- Joe Rogan defends Carrot Top against criticism from other comedians, emphasizing the absurdity of targeting a prop comic in a world with far bigger issues.

🏨 Life in Las Vegas and Residency Insights

- Carrot Top discusses his 16-year residency at the Luxor Hotel, highlighting the perks of stability, like sleeping in his own bed and avoiding the exhaustion of constant touring.

- He humorously describes the quirks of living in Vegas, from its surreal atmosphere to the odd juxtaposition of attractions like the Titanic Museum and the Bodies Exhibit.

- The conversation touches on the evolution of Vegas as a community, with its growing sports scene and cultural offerings.

🎤 Celebrity Encounters and Backstage Stories

- Carrot Top recounts surreal interactions with celebrities like Prince, who once demanded tea only to later deny wanting it.

- He shares a hilarious Tonight Show moment involving Dick Cheney, where he performed a series of Cheney-themed props directly in front of the former Vice President.

- Joe and Carrot Top reflect on the eccentricities of icons like Rodney Dangerfield, who famously performed in a bathrobe.

🎶 Music, Nostalgia, and Cultural Shifts

- The duo explores the timelessness of pre-internet music, reminiscing about artists like Billy Joel and Prince.

- Joe highlights modern talents like Jelly Roll and Zach Bryan, emphasizing that great music still exists if you know where to look.

- They discuss how societal changes and technology have altered the way we consume and relate to entertainment.

🤖 AI, Comedy, and the Future of Creativity

- Joe and Carrot Top delve into the rise of AI in music and comedy, marveling at AI-generated songs that mimic human creativity.

- They ponder the implications of AI on originality and the potential for technology to reshape entertainment.

- The conversation veers into speculative territory, imagining a future where genetic engineering could make everyone attractive and kind, albeit at the cost of creativity.