Comedian Salman Malik: “There’s a thin line between being funny & offensive”
How long have you been entertaining the public with your comedy skits?
I started doing YouTube back in 2006 and my first video was doing a lip Sync on an old Kishore Kumar song. All my friends found it hilarious and it got me motivated to make more. I did some crazy videos from dancing on London Underground to hidden camera pranks. I can proudly say I was one of the first Asian Youtubers from the UK.
Back then the term “Youtuber” didn’t exist, they simply called us Weirdos!
When did you first decide to take comedy as a serious profession?
In 2010, I went see Michael Macintyre at Wembley Arena and I was completely blown away by his performance as well as the fact so many people turned up to watch live comedy. At that point I decided to give stand-up a shot and the rest is history.
What was it about comedy that you wanted to pursue as a career?
I have never enjoyed structure and over planning ahead. The thought of doing the same thing day in day out has never been my cup of tea. When I am on stage doing a comedy routine I love the fact that I can just get a feel for the crowd and go with the flow. I can improvise and use my instincts in the moment. It always fun when something unexpected…
Salman Malik
There is a thin line between being funny and offensive because we are picking on things people can relate to. It’s important to know your audience and to keep the material relevant.
You won an award recently at the LAGAs for Best Comedian, how does that make you feel?
It was an incredible feeling for being appreciated for what you do. This award has motivated me to improve myself as an artist and up my game.
To make an individual smile is a difficult task, so how have you managed to make this possible with your comedy elements?
Absolutely, its not the easiest thing in the world. I keep myself well informed about the current trends and my knowledge of different cultures and languages really come handy with my material. I still get pretty nervous before my performances which I think it is a good thing and helps me challenge myself.
How would you describe your comedy sketches?
I speak about things we do in everyday life; a lot of personal experiences. I am very influenced by Bollywood so my act usually has a singing and dance element to it. I really enjoy private events. In fact, I am one few Asian comedians who cater for family events. At such events my act is very universal and people of all ages enjoy it. My act is usually a surprise so imagine walking in to a room of 400 people who are not expecting you and your job is to make sure they laugh and enjoy themselves.
There are some comedians that resort to offensive material, what’s your take on this?
Everyone has their own style and I respect that. There is a thin line between being funny and offensive because we are picking on things people can relate to. Its important to know your audience and to keep the material relevant.
You’re doing regular stand-up shows and also holding your own events, tell us about them?
Yes, I am involved in some exiting events. On 8th September 2018 I am organising and performing in a very unique Asian comedy event in London. Its called Indian Vs Pakistan Comedy Clash and the idea is to bring communities together through laughter. The line-up includes some of the funniest Asian comedians on the circuit. I am very excited to bring this event to life, be prepared to be blown away.
Future plans?
To keep working hard towards my goals, Write more stand-up material and organise regular comedy events across the country.
