MONIE JONEZY Driven for Success When did you first get into comedy? I definitely feel like I’m a natural performer. Since the 1st grade when I played Captain Hook. Although, I was definitely the lead Peter Pan, I messed around and maced myself and had to wear a patch over my eye. My teacher was a good sport. She knew I was crushed, but I ended up killing the Hook part and come to think about it, Captain Hook was a funny guy, he had all the clever one-liners.
A common phrase in the industry is “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art? I definitely agree with that! It’s a sacrifice, too. Being on the road is great and part of the career I love but yes, it can be a strain on family relationships that may take the backseat for a time. It’s hard to manage but it’s a part of the process.
Who or what inspired you to pursue such a competitive career? I have a memory of sitting with my Uncle and he would make these great ghetto milkshakes and we would watch the old reruns of Def Jam and Comic View with Michael CollierJr. and the greats and I just knew I wanted to entertain and seeing Eddie Murphy’s Raw even as a kid convinced me I was going to do comedy. Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas? I am focused, I’m smart and I can adapt to different perspectives. I’m more than just a Comedian. What has been your biggest challenge? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how? My biggest challenge has been procrastinating. How I’ve overcome this challenge is getting into a routine and putting time aside to knock out my goals.
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