HardLore Episode Summary: Chappelle Lacey – Comedy, Cheerleading, Hardcore Punk

Released: May 15, 2025

Hosts: Colin Young, Bo Lueders
Guest: Chappelle Lacey
Location: Varsity, Los Angeles; Mills Vintage Records, Little Tokyo

1. Introduction

The episode marks a historic crossover as HardLore welcomes the legendary stand-up comedian, Chappelle Lacey, blending the worlds of comedy and hardcore punk. Hosted by Colin Young and Bo Lueders, the conversation delves into Chappelle's unique journey from a hardcore punk enthusiast and competitive cheerleader to a touring comedian.

Chappelle Lacey [00:29]: "Music was the very first thing. Music was like, you know, a major thing for me."

2. Early Influences and Musical Beginnings

Chappelle recounts his early fascination with music, initially immersing himself in West Coast hip-hop artists like NWA and Dr. Dre during his elementary years. This early exposure laid the foundation for his diverse musical tastes, which eventually led him to explore rock and punk genres.

Chappelle Lacey [02:02]: "I was glued to the radio as a kid. I loved hearing all the things that I would hear."

3. Discovering Hardcore and Punk

A pivotal moment in Chappelle's life was discovering the band Korn, which resonated deeply with his tumultuous home environment. This discovery marked his entry into the world of hardcore punk, further intensified by his exposure to Black Flag and Henry Rollins.

Chappelle Lacey [03:35]: "Korn was the thing that matched the sound of, like, dude, what I was like, growing up in."

Chappelle's first encounter with Black Flag's "Rise Above" and Henry Rollins’ powerful performances ignited his passion for hardcore music, leading him to fully embrace the genre.

Chappelle Lacey [08:32]: "I saw Henry and I was like, who's that guy? He's like, that's Henry Rollins."

4. Local Scene and the Nile Underground

Chappelle shares his experiences attending local hardcore shows at the Nile Underground in Mesa, Arizona, highlighting bands like Mad Caddies and Crush. These venues were instrumental in shaping his music taste and providing a community that mirrored his own struggles.

Chappelle Lacey [10:54]: "The first show I ever went to was Mad Caddy's show."

5. Transition to Comedy

The shift to comedy was sparked by a dare during his college years. As a competitive cheerleader at the University of Louisville, Chappelle was pushed to perform at an open mic, leading to his first stand-up experience. Although his initial attempt didn't go as planned, it ignited a passion for comedy.

Chappelle Lacey [12:11]: "Someone dared me to do it. Someone dared me to do it when I was cheering in college."

6. Touring Experiences and Challenges

Chappelle draws parallels between touring as a comedian and traveling with a band. He discusses the logistical challenges of solo performances, managing bookings, and the grind of performing multiple shows across weekends. The conversation touches on maintaining authenticity and the importance of perseverance through both successes and setbacks.

Chappelle Lacey [26:15]: "If you're not going out and like, do something about it, then you can't just expect anything."

7. Favorite Bands and Records

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Chappelle's favorite hardcore bands and records. He highlights:

• Black Flag – Particularly "Damage," which he considers a cornerstone of his musical identity.
• Minor Threat – Admiring their influence and seminal work.
• Demons System 13 (DS13) – A Swedish underground band that deeply impacted him during his teenage years.
• Mad Ball – Noting their role in shaping the hardcore scene he grew up in.

Chappelle Lacey [82:08]: "Damage is my record."

8. Combining Music and Comedy

Chappelle elaborates on his latest venture, the band Mad Peaceful, which fuses his comedic talents with his musical roots. Formed during the pandemic, the band focuses on cover songs and original material, showcasing Chappelle's versatility and commitment to blending his passions.

Chappelle Lacey [102:24]: "I have a band called Mad Peaceful, which is basically the name comes from, like, who I am."

9. Advice and Closing Thoughts

In closing, Chappelle offers valuable advice rooted in his experiences. He emphasizes the importance of reading to gain new perspectives, staying grounded despite successes, and maintaining authenticity in both comedy and music.

Chappelle Lacey [106:20]: "Read. Just read. You won't think the world is as crazy as what you are surrounded by."

Chappelle also reflects on the significance of community and shared experiences within the hardcore and comedy scenes, underscoring the mutual understanding and support that drive both industries forward.

Notable Moments and Quotes

• Understanding Music’s Impact:

  "Corn was the thing that matched the sound of, like, dude, what I was like, growing up in." [03:35]

• First Comedy Experience:

  "I wrote a love album for a girl... It did not go well." [13:01]

• Touring Realities:

  "Comedy, music, wrestling are all kind of the same thing... Grinding, cutting your teeth." [27:29]

• Handling Criticism:

  "I don't care if someone says I'm not funny... I'm still getting support from those who understand." [78:04]

• Favorite Records:

  "Damage is my record. Damage is bible to me." [82:09]

• Advice on Reading:

  "Reading helps you stay grounded and see different perspectives." [106:20]

Conclusion

Chappelle Lacey's episode on HardLore offers an insightful exploration of the intersections between hardcore punk, competitive cheerleading, and stand-up comedy. Through engaging storytelling and candid reflections, Chappelle provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of his multifaceted career and the enduring influence of music and comedy in his life.

Whether you're a fan of hardcore music, interested in the comedy scene, or looking for inspiration on balancing multiple passions, this episode delivers a rich and authentic narrative that resonates with enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Remember to check out Madison Vintage for exclusive merchandise and support the local hardcore community! Use code HARDLORE15 for a 15% discount. Visit madvintage.com and explore their extensive collection of shirts, posters, and more.