Co Founder of Def Comedy Jam Bob Sumner sits down with the HHU Podcast to talk about his life, finding his calling as a comedy scout evaluator ushering in some of the greatest we've ever seen. Bob Sumner, best known as the co-creator of HBO's Russell Simmons' Def Comedy Jam is a recognized force in the world of comedy. With over 25 years of experience, the Roselle, NJ native has discovered many of the top gifted comedians that have graced the stages and big screens around the world. Before joining Rush Communications, Sumner was an independent club promoter for musicians and comedians in the tri-state area. While attending Seton Hall University he hosted a radio show on SHU's FM station WSOU, where his Friday Night Jam show called Mellow Madness was as popular in its time slot as the major radio shows in the tri state area.
In 1989 Sumner was hired at Def Jam Recordings and in 1992 along with entertainment titans Russell Simmons and Stan Lathan, helped launch HBO's "Def Comedy Jam" which forever changed the landscape of urban comedy. He is definitely the man comedians want to know and has helped to make superstars out of many of today's well known comedians such as Bill Bellamy, Mike Epps, Dave Chappelle, Sheryl Underwood, Chris Tucker, and the late, great Bernie Mac.
Currently Sumner is executive partner in his venture Laff Mobb which has produced specials that have aired on Showtime, and most recently executive produced "Laff Mobb's We Got Next" on Magic Johnson's Aspire network. He is Curator of Comedy at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY and has served as comedy producer for such notable events as the American Black Film Festival's HBO Comedy Wings competition, Hall of Famer Alonzo Mourning's "Zo's Comedy Groove" charity event, the Soul Train Music Cruise, and the Newark International Film Festival. His new television show, Laff Mobb's "Laff Tracks", is currently airing on the Tru television network.
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