Should You Put Your Act on YouTube?
Oh, YouTube. It’s the magical land of cat videos, makeup tutorials, and conspiracy theories about whether birds are real (spoiler: they are). But for us comedians, YouTube is a double-edged sword—a stage that’s always open, but one that’s forever unforgiving. So, should you put your act on YouTube? Let’s break it down, honey.
Pro: Exposure Galore!
YouTube is like the world's biggest comedy club. People from Timbuktu to Toronto can stumble upon your five-minute bit about why kombucha tastes like regret. If you’ve got the goods, the algorithm can take you places you’ve only dreamed of—Netflix specials, movie deals, and maybe even that sweet sponsorship deal with a mattress company. Who doesn’t want to be the face of sleep?
Con: It’s Out There Forever
But let’s talk about the flip side. Once your act is online, it’s online FOREVER. That joke about your Uncle Larry might be hilarious now, but will it hold up in five years? And what if Uncle Larry sues? I’m kidding (mostly). But seriously, comedy evolves, and so do you. Your 2023 jokes might feel like cringe material in 2025. Do you want your old material haunting you like a ghost at a haunted open mic?
Pro: Instant Feedback
One of the best things about YouTube is the comment section. Sure, it’s mostly trolls, bots, and your Aunt Carol saying, “You’re so funny, sweetie!” But every now and then, you’ll get valuable feedback. Maybe a fan points out a punchline that’s pure gold but buried in your delivery. Or they tell you your pacing needs work. You’re crowdsourcing critiques from a global audience—and it’s free!
Con: Thieves, Beware!
Ah, joke thieves—the bane of every comic’s existence. Putting your material on YouTube is like leaving your car unlocked in a bad neighborhood. One day, your killer bit about kale smoothies could show up in someone else’s Netflix special. Protect your jokes like they’re the last slice of pizza at a party.
Pro: Building Your Brand
In today’s digital world, you’re not just a comedian; you’re a brand. YouTube helps you build an audience, showcase your style, and let the world know what makes you unique. Are you the king of observational humor? The queen of one-liners? Whatever your shtick, YouTube can help you carve out your niche.
Con: Overexposure is Real
Let’s be honest—not all your jokes are going to land. And if you flood your channel with subpar material, people might not stick around to see the good stuff. Quality over quantity, my friend. Uploading too much can dilute your brand faster than a soda left out in the sun.
So, What’s the Verdict?
If you’ve got polished material you’re proud of, YouTube can be an incredible tool. It’s a way to connect, grow, and maybe even make some money (hello, AdSense!). But tread carefully. Make sure you’re putting your best foot forward, and don’t forget to protect your intellectual property.
Remember, the goal is to make people laugh, not to give them free tickets to your entire act. Save some gems for the live shows—because nothing beats the roar of a live audience.
So go ahead, upload that killer set—just maybe leave the kombucha jokes in the drafts. You’ll thank me later.
