In this previously recorded interview from 2017, I interview Vance Gilbert who burst onto the singer/songwriter scene in the early 90's when buzz started spreading in the folk clubs of Boston about an ex-multicultural arts teacher who was knocking 'em dead at open mics. Born and raised in the Philadelphia area, Vance started out hoping to be a jazz singer and then discovered his affinity for the storytelling sensibilities of acoustic folk music. Once word got out about Gilbert's stage-owning singing and playing, Shawn Colvin invited him to be special guest on her Fat City Tour. Gilbert has recorded 12 albums, toured extensively as a headliner at festivals and clubs, and has been the opener of choice for artists as varied as Aretha Franklin, Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker and comedian George Carlin. He has also been the opener of choice for Paul Reiser and The Subdudes.

In my chat with Vance Gilbert, he shares some brilliant tips including:

• Strategies from the great comics