Please tell us about your brand of comedy- what can audiences expect?
Johnny Cochrane
I like to talk from my experiences - as many comics do - and hope that people can relate. I like to add different elements to my shows. I have a short attention span myself, so always want to keep it interesting for the audience.
Which comedians have been your biggest influence?
I always tried made an effort not to watch too many other comics when I was starting put. I'm sure I have been influenced by acts regardless, but I do think it's important to try to forge a unique space for yourself in the comedy world, because if you try to mimic someone else you'll just end up sounding like a cheap knock off. Instead- I'll be myself, because I can't be a cheap knock off of Johnny Cochrane because I am actually him. Yeah you get the idea.
What random things make you laugh in everyday life?
I like a bit of schaffensfreude, so I would certainly laugh at someone falling over or getting angry when they miss a train. I'm evil like that. But I do like dry comedy. Some of the funniest people I know aren't comedians, they're just normal people who seem exasperated with life.
Please tell us about your best and worst moment on stage so far.
Best Moment - Probably when I won a Gong Show at the Comedy Store within my first year in comedy. It's notoriously a tough gig and I had been booed off a couple of times during previous attempts. I was very proud of myself after that.
Worst - One of the several times that I've died. I mean everyone dies on stage but it's never nice, you quickly become just a man talking into a microphone to a room of people who have checked out mentally. A lonely place!
Do you still get nervous when you do a gig?
Yes and No. I tend to get nervous when it's a new gig that I haven't done before or if it's one of particular significance. Apart from that I just tend to tell myself that I'm obviously good enough or I wouldn't have got as far as I have. And that whatever's happens, it'll be fine.
Why is Edinburgh Fringe Festival such a great platform for comedians?
The Edinburgh Fringe is a great platform for comedians because it's a festival that gives everyone a chance to come and showcase their talents and ideas. It offers the audiences immediate access to a range of comics from household names to the next big thing.
Who are you looking forward to seeing as an audience member?
Bill Burr is doing two dates in Edinburgh and I've got a ticket. I'm elated, as he's probably my favourite comedian right now. Although it will probably make me feel worse about my own show after seeing it.
What is your advice to aspiring comedians?
Persevere. There will be many obstacles that you have to overcome on your journey so you have to be almost stubborn in your belief. Although if after about 5 years people are coming up to you going "You're rubbish mate, not funny!" then stop persevering ... It's over... Unless you enjoy it then do it anyway. Also it's very important to find your own voice on stage and that can take a while.
What is the oddest heckle you've ever received?
The oddest heckle I've received was: "Hey Johnny!"
To which I responded "who is that? Do I know you!?" as I couldn't see the bloke.
A voice in the darkness replied: "you got with my sister at university!" which granted was true, but not when I'm at work mate.
What is next for you?
What's next for any of us? I do philosophy as well comedy.
Johnny Cochrane's debut stand up show 'Appeal' will be at the Pleasance Courtyard Below at 9.45pm for the month of August for tickets go to www.edfringe.com
Tagged in Edinburgh Festival Fringe