It's Not Really All About Me

November 17, 2010

I'm on day 27 of a 31-day tour, and due to a cancellation, I've got the day off. I'm holed up in a hotel in Meridian, Mississippi, and just killing time.

One of the great things about the internet is that you become a time-killing machine. I looked up an old friend (who happens to be another comedian) and was looking at their website and noticed an interesting feature; they had a series of "favorites" listed, and I thought I should have that sort of list.

Now, the thing about "favorites" lists is that it's reflected glory; it's like saying "Here's the things that I think are cool," and if you agree, it will elevate my status in your eyes. However, just because the moon reflects the light of the sun and doesn't have any light of it's own, it's still pretty awesome. So for right now, just consider me your caffeine-infused moon, shining some reflected light and maybe we'll enjoy the evening.

Favorite Food: Well, let the fat jokes fly here....did I hear someone say "seconds?" In real life, I'm a meat and bread kind of guy....cold cuts are good all the time, for any meal. Capicolla, salami, turkey and roast beef are all good, depending on mood. I'm not a ham person, not for any religious reason, just not a fan. Bologna is good, but it has to be thick and fried.

Favorite Color: I like blue a lot, although black clothing works better on me. I like splashes of color, too...like a mob guy dressed in a black suit with a red carnation in the boutioneirre...perfect.

Favorite Musician: This isn't really my friend's next category, but the closest approximation. I would have to say Bruce Springsteen, and while I'm not completely in love with his 21st century output, there's still enough that I can stand behind, and his early work holds up against anything I've ever heard.

Favorite Old School Rap Video: Uhh....911 Is A Joke by Public Enemy? Can I phone a friend?

Favorite Book: I'm partial to George Pelicanos and Elmore Leonard, but none of their work stands out as a complete favorite. I'd have to say that my very favorite book is "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" as I've re-read it several times and recommend it to just about everyone.

Favorite Movie: Ghostbusters. Best movie ever made, bar none. Even better than "The Blues Brothers."

CD In The Car Right Now: I don't have a CD player in the van, but Sattelite Radio has been working out. Listening to a lot of punk rock, metal and then switching up to acoustic coffee house stuff for a change of pace.

OK, so there's a thumbnail of the stuff that I enjoy. I hope you enjoyed my list. I'm not sure who exactly would benefit from this information, but if you're a fan, I'm not going to question your motives.

Ralph Tetta
Rochester, NY