Meet Lionel Harris II | Comedian, Writer, Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lionel Harris II and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lionel, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I firmly believe there is something to not quitting. I do not believe that we see the most talented people on the world’s highest stages. I believe that we see those with the most perseverance. The success that I have been blessed to obtain comes from that. That by God’s grace, I did not quit. I wanted to. Got pretty close too many times to name, but for some reason, I did not. Anyone with an unwavering level of commitment can achieve.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others? Probably my motivation. I am funny because it is a God-given gift. I am a comedian because it is my desire to sincerely lift people up. Spread some love… some joy-in a world that is suffocating from the opposite. Also, because I have an innate, sometimes annoying need to express myself. I will not always go for the easy laugh, I actually have something to say.

I’m excited to have completed an album, a special, and begin headlining six-years into the craft. I’ve been able to gain representation as a writer and talent, and I’m looking forward to what these open doors will mean for me in the near future.

The main challenge of doing comedy is it is painful. Plain and simple. It is hard to get in front of people and find out directly whether they like you or not. It is hard to face rejection. Trying to get booked, trying to get into clubs, festivals, and the like. I believe everyone who weathers these storms in whatever field they’re in will find success.

Lessons I have learned-I believe that if you are really trying to be a comedian-you are not trying to be funny. You already know you’re funny if you decided to pursue comedy (hopefully). I believe that when you go to open mics, work out your craft, and get on stages-you are working to be yourself on stage. So you’re putting in the reps to be comfortable in your own skin, so you can do what you do naturally.

What I want people to know-Standup has been six years, but I started out making comedic films and sketch comedy for years before standup. So just know, whenever you see me or I become famous to you-IT WAS NOT AN OVERNIGHT SUCCESS.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Without hesitation, my wife-Shameka Harris. She always believed and always pushed me beyond myself. If you like my work, you can definitely thank her!

Website: https://www.lionelharris.com/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/lionelharrisii

Image Credits
@c.caldwell560