Man behind the comedy: itw with Eddie Kadi

We caught up with Eddie Kadi, who was nominated for a gong at the Black Tie Comedy Awards (Sun 29 Nov, Kadi didn’t win). With a couple of sold-out shows under his belt and numerous gigs as a presenter, Kadi is the hottest black comedian in town. Here he tells us more about his career and future projects.

Catch a Vibe: You use alot of your African heritage in your work – are you ever criticised for this?
Eddie Kadi: People were a bit unsure about my act at first only because the culture wasn’t embraced and so blatantly put out there as much, but at the same time it was new and refreshing and broke down a lot of stereotypes and that’s why I think, what started as criticism is now a celebration!

CAV: You are more of a performer than a stand-up comedian. Do you feel that this puts you in a different league to other British comedians ie Kojo and Richard Blackwood?
Eddie Kadi: I feel that every entertainer has something different  that highlights them in their field. I love to entertain and I draw on all my experiences and passions to convey my message whether it’s in stand up or when I’m presenting. It just means that I am able to take my audience on an adventure with the way I tell stories.

CAV: Who inspires you in your life and in your work?
Eddie Kadi: My father has always inspired me since I was young with his wise words and clear directions. I also work with some pretty special and talented people who push me to be the best that I can be everyday!!

CAV: How did your family feel about your chosen career path? What made you get into comedy?
Eddie Kadi: My parents were a bit apprehensive at first naturally as they had worked out that after univeristy I would go into a nice job with a great salary. So the idea of comedy completely confused them, but they let me have a go and were converted after my first one man show… They have been my number 1 fans since. Comedy came off the back of presenting/compering shows on stage. It was a natural progress from being a funny compere to a stand up comedian! Once I gave it a try after much convincing, the experience was that good, I’ve never looked back since.

CAV: If you weren’t a comedian what would your profession be?
Eddie Kadi: I’d be working in TV production,  in the media technology sector, as that is what I studied at university. My first job after uni was as a multimedia assistant. Sounds good innit? lol!

CAV: Both of your shows at IndigO2 this year have sold out. How do you feel about what you have accomplished this year?
Eddie Kadi: It feels great because it’s a target that is met and is a result of hard work and testament to the great team and family I have around me. I have done a lot this year on TV, radio and stage. With every goal you set there is always a reason to stop, so it’s always a great feeling to know that there are people out there who cherish your goals… and turn up and pay their hard earned money to help you fulfil your dreams. So I’m ever so grateful for my audience.

CAV: What make you laugh? When was the lat time you laughed so hard you cried?
Eddie Kadi: I was on the phone with a friend of mine, and all of a sudden she pointed out that her mum was walking through the house singing all these new urban songs, from NDubz to Donaeo, and she was wondering where her mum heard all these songs from! And the mum had her own remix to the songs..! And just the thought of it…had me in stitches!!!

CAV: What is next for you? Where do you aspire to be next year?
Eddie Kadi: Well I am to do another one man show next year September, this time at the main O2 arena… That’s the main target for next year, and it’s a chance for me to collaborate with my audience in order to make history. That’s why it’s called ‘An AUDIENCE with Eddie Kadi’

Eddie Kadi’s official website

Eddie Kadi’s Youtube Video