Who says you have to chose between being funny and stylish? A well tailored suit is like a well written joke–always appreciated and respected.
Recently we caught up with comedian Dulo Folarin Harris for an exclusive photo shoot and to get an update since our last interview. He’s been quite busy with releasing a new Afrobeat track as well as readying up for going full steam with online series ‘Africa Time.’ Nigerian American actor and comedian Dulo has provided laughs to hundreds of thousands of people world wide as an MC, stand up comedian and is also a recognized actor. He is known for his role in web series ‘Corporate Brother’ as well as ‘African Time’ among other series.
Dulo performs all over the US, the UK and Canada. His culture enthused brand of humor has made him a favorite on the college comedy tour scene and it has been exciting to watch him grow his brand since we last caught up with him. With over 770,000 followers on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter combined, Dulo has touched every continent in the world through social media with his humor charisma and unique sense of humor.
We Present I AM DULO THE GENTLEMAN COMEDIAN
We wanted to catch up with you and get an update. How has the standup comedy game been going for you?
Tell us a bit more about your music and the new single we saw you just dropped:
Everyone loves the ‘Africa Time’ series!!! What is in store for us in 2018 with the web series.
Where do you see your brand moving in 2018?
A few months ago we interviewed Dulo for the first time. His interview is below in its entirety. We promised we would circle back and keep you updated and we did!
Dulo Folarin Harris is no newcomer to the comedy scene. He has been putting hard work in for years on the stand up circuit and is a favorite for those looking for humor from a hip relevant African perspective. One of the things I love about his brand of humor is he’s simply funny without all the extras. I don’t really know too many comedians who can make a punchline funny while keeping the language clean. I love how he can effortlessly change between characters and his delivery always comes across as authentic. He’s often asked to guest star on radio shows and news shows as a commenter and I totally get why he has such star appeal. He’s funny and just comes across as really down to earth in person and off-camera. With over 500k followers his instagram is home to his hilarious videos which star several characters from various cultural backgrounds—-all played by him. Could he possibly morph into the African Eddie Murphy in the future?! We think so! Dulo also plays his most beloved character in new comedy series ‘African Time’ written by ‘Blackish’ writer Damilare Sonoiki. The show plays on the struggles and blessings of growing up African in American society. It also chronicles how the young son of the family deals with cultural identity issues as he navigates balancing values from his immigrant family background and wanting to fit in. I often see people from various backgrounds and countries commenting that Dulo Harris’ strict dad character reminds them of their own family experiences. Any from any background can appreciate the hilarity of his jokes. America is a melting pot and everyone loves to laugh and enjoy the interesting sides of that which makes us a diverse nation. Dulo recently moved to the West Coast and we’re happy to see what will come as he ‘invades’ Hollywood with his unique style of comedy. We caught up with Dulo to ask him questions. Dulo kept it real with us on staying grounded, his career and more: So we all know by now that Dulo has arrived to the west coast. What’s next? What exactly is the plan?
For me it’s to keep doing what I’ve been doing—which is feeding my social media platforms; which in turn generate business inquiries. It has helped provide me with stand up opportunities and hosting events like runway shows, culture based programs, pageants, weddings and many other types of organized programming.
Tell me more about ‘Africa Time,’ how you got involved and what is your role is in relation to the production ?
Well, ‘African Time’ really speaks to my aspirations because of its potential longevity. I play a character name Tunde who is the father of the kid who the story is centered on. Besides playing the role, I’m also involved with the writing of my character’s script. I co-wrote and co-produced the theme song for the show which is also called African Time alongside rising Nigerian American artists Meaku. I am looking forward to playing a larger production role in the future as the series progresses.
We know you do comedy but tell us more about what you do outside the comedy works:
Besides comedy I love to grill. I consider myself a grill master. I catered for years in the DMV via my own company (@DulosBarinGrill) for countless private events.
What advice or tips do you have for young comedians looking to enter the online world ?
My advice would be to “be consistent and faithful to your craft because without consistency your craft won’t be existent.”
How do you stay grounded in this journey as your career has started to flourish?
I stay grounded by God. He never failed to remind me what humility is, through experiences I grew up through. I believe God makes no mistakes and everyone has their own path and journey so when I’m faced with situations that humble me, I know that’s God reminding me to stay grounded.
I know you do comedy full time and get booked for gigs around the world. Which has been one of your most memorable experiences?
One of my most memorable experiences would be performing in London U.K. for the first time. The turn out was great and I definitely loved taking in the local sites.
What role does culture/your background or family upbringing play in shaping your work?
Culture plays a huge role in shaping my work. I always aim to enlighten in the midst of my work even though it is from a comedic point of view. Although my work is funny to many; it also serves as a guide and gives good examples to some people who may have no ties to their African roots but still are aware of where they come from.
Some people opt not to go to college when they pursue entertainment. You attended HBCU Hampton University. How has the college experience or having a degree operated as a benefit to you?
Having a Degree gives me confidence in knowing a goal can be set and accomplished. Although I’ve never used my degree in the work force, having a degree in sociology gave me a chance at an accounting Job. I had that job for 2 years or so. My sociology degree and accounting experience have been vital tools for me as a full time entertainer.
Make sure you follow Dulo on social media via @iamdulo!
Photo Credit: Photo Shoot( Photography- RichmondAshford Agency, Multi-Print Tunic- by Designer Sania Josiah) l Candids (@iamdulo)