Podcast Summary: The Bonfire with Big Jay Oakerson and Robert Kelly
Episode: Glide Wizard w/Dov Davidoff & Ralph Sutton
Release Date: March 27, 2025

Introduction and Guest Arrival [01:15 - 02:30]

In this lively episode of The Bonfire, hosts Big Jay Oakerson and Robert Kelly welcome two special guests, Ralph Sutton and Dove Davidoff, to join them by the bonfire. The conversation kicks off with a nostalgic nod to classic rock, specifically the song "Bad Company," highlighting its generational appeal. Dove humorously reveals, “[00:27] Dove Davidoff: I had to learn this on the street,” setting the tone for a night filled with candid storytelling and shared histories.

Early Comedy Days and Relationships [02:30 - 10:00]

The discussion rapidly shifts to the hosts' early days in stand-up comedy. Ralph and Dove share anecdotes about their formative experiences, including memorable nights with fellow comedians like Steve Marshall. Dove quips, “[04:07] Dove Davidoff: Dove is the Brad Pitt of stand-up,” emphasizing his confidence and charm in the comedy scene. Big Jay interjects with a chuckle, “[07:03] Bobby Kelly: It's a Pyrrhic Victory, meaning you're gonna lose more than you gain living like that,” reflecting on the highs and lows of their comedic journeys.

Wild Nights and Personal Anecdotes [10:00 - 17:00]

The guests delve into wild stories from their touring days, including escapades involving late-night antics, accidental encounters, and humorous misadventures. Ralph reminisces about hosting events at Danger Fields, “[21:40] Dove Davidoff: She was always at Danger Fields and New York,” underscoring the vibrant New York comedy scene. They share laughs over broken teeth from boxing matches and the chaotic camaraderie that defined their early careers.

Breakdancing and The "Glide Wizard" [17:00 - 26:00]

A significant portion of the conversation centers around breakdancing, with Big Jay affectionately dubbing Ralph as “the Glide Wizard.” Dove humorously explains, “[25:37] Bobby Kelly: There's nobody better to ask,” highlighting Ralph’s expertise in the art form. The hosts recount their breakdancing days as the "Fast Action Rockers," reminiscing about their performances and the camaraderie that fueled their passion. Big Jay adds, “[24:14] Big Jay Oakerson: Maybe you guys were a government experiment,” playfully teasing their unique talents and styles.

Evolution of Comedy and Breakdancing [26:00 - 40:00]

The trio transitions into a discussion on how both comedy and breakdancing have evolved over the years. They debate whether breakdancing should be considered a sport, with Big Jay stating, “[27:46] Big Jay Oakerson: This is a way for... you know that breakdancing was invented as like a, you know, Guns for basketball program.” The conversation touches upon the integration of breakdancing into mainstream events like the Olympics and its transformation from street performance to competitive art.

Personal Growth and Reflections [40:00 - 55:00]

As the episode progresses, the guests reflect on personal growth and the shifts in their comedic styles. Christine Evans shares her ventures into radio and writing, humorously detailing her book, “[48:18] Christine Evans: It was a book on how to lose weight.” They discuss the challenges of maintaining authenticity in comedy and the impact of changing personal lives on their careers. Dove poignantly remarks, “[55:01] Dove Davidoff: We haven't seen. We haven't seen the full set. You can't judge somebody from little pieces,” emphasizing the importance of understanding the depth behind comedic performances.

Modern Comedy Landscape and Social Commentary [55:00 - 63:32]

In the final segment, the conversation shifts to the modern landscape of comedy, social media’s influence, and the differences between past and present comedic interactions. They critique contemporary comedy's shift away from the gritty, confrontational style of their early days. Big Jay expresses frustration, “[60:11] Big Jay Oakerson: The problem with Bobby watches young black comics do it,” highlighting generational and stylistic changes within the comedy community. The episode concludes with humorous exchanges about maintaining comedic integrity and the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences.

Notable Quotes:

• Dove Davidoff [02:02]: "Bad Company by Bad Company on the album Bad Company. Isn't it track four, though."
• Big Jay Oakerson [04:07]: "Faction talk series XM103 Big Jokerson, the great Robert Kelly."
• Bobby Kelly [07:03]: "It's a Pyrrhic Victory, meaning you're gonna lose more than you gain living like that."
• Dove Davidoff [25:37]: "I'm sorry. Why, gee whiz."
• Big Jay Oakerson [26:00]: "It's a way for... you know that breakdancing was invented as like a, you know, Guns for basketball program."
• Christine Evans [48:18]: "It was a book on how to lose weight."
• Dove Davidoff [55:01]: "We haven't seen the full set. You can't judge somebody from little pieces."

Conclusion

This episode of The Bonfire offers a rich tapestry of stories from the early days of stand-up comedy and breakdancing, intertwined with personal reflections and humorous exchanges. Ralph Sutton and Dove Davidoff bring depth and nostalgia to the conversation, allowing listeners to glimpse the camaraderie and chaos that shaped their careers. Big Jay Oakerson masterfully navigates the dialogue, ensuring a seamless flow that is both engaging and informative. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the show, this episode provides an insightful and entertaining journey through the lives of these seasoned comedians.