Tommy Davidson Quotes

Powerful Tommy Davidson for Daily Growth

About Tommy Davidson

Tommy Davidson, an illustrious figure in the entertainment world, was born on December 1, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up, he was influenced by comedians like Richard Pryor, Redd Foxx, and Jimmie Walker, which inspired him to pursue a career in comedy. At the age of 20, Davidson moved to Hollywood, eventually joining the cast of the popular TV show "In Living Color" (1990-1994), where he gained widespread recognition for his impressions and memorable characters. His portrayal of the character "Muwawa," a Ugandan gorilla with a Brooklyn accent, remains one of the show's most iconic sketches. In addition to his work on "In Living Color," Davidson has had a successful career in film, appearing in movies like "Mo' Money" (1992), "Juwanna Mann" (2002), and "Harlem Nights" (1989). He has also lent his voice to numerous projects, including the animated series "The Proud Family" and the movie "Shrek 2." Davidson's stand-up comedy specials include "Live N' Loose" (1996) and "Still Alive & Kickin'" (2013). In 2014, he released a memoir titled "Living in Color: Confessions of a Not-So-Gentleman's Gentleman," which offers a humorous look into his life and career. Davidson continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, using his platform to advocate for social justice issues and supporting charities that focus on youth development. His contributions to comedy and television have left an indelible mark on American popular culture.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I've learned that life is short and if you don't do what you love, you end up working for the rest of your life."

This quote emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's passion in life. The speaker, Tommy Davidson, suggests that if we fail to engage in activities or careers we love, we may find ourselves spending the remainder of our lives working, essentially without fulfillment or joy. Instead, by dedicating ourselves to what brings us happiness, we can enrich our lives and make the most of our brief time on earth. This message encourages personal growth, self-discovery, and a proactive approach to finding meaning in one's life.


"The more you make a living at comedy, the more it makes you want to kill yourself."

This quote suggests that as a career in comedy progresses, the pressures and demands associated with it can become overwhelming, leading to feelings of despair or self-destructive thoughts. The "more it makes you want to kill yourself" part emphasizes the intensity and emotional toll of the profession, where success brings increasing expectations, criticism, and personal scrutiny, which can be mentally exhausting. It's important to remember that mental health should always be prioritized in any career, especially one as emotionally taxing as comedy.


"Comedy is like being in the stock market. Some days you're up, some days you're down, but if you can ride it out, you'll come out on top."

This quote by Tommy Davidson suggests that comedy, like investing in the stock market, involves elements of risk and unpredictability. Just as one might experience gains and losses while trading stocks, a comedian encounters successes (laughter) and failures (silence or negative reactions). The key message is resilience; to remain persistent, ride through the ups and downs, and stay committed to the craft, will eventually lead to positive outcomes. In both comedy and finance, it's essential to learn from mistakes, adapt strategies, and maintain a long-term focus to succeed.


"The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize."

This quote by Tommy Davidson humorously highlights one of the distinctive characteristics of humans - our propensity for personal expression through adornments, fashion, and other decorative items. By wearing jewelry, makeup, clothes, or using technology, we not only express our individuality but also communicate status, culture, identity, and emotions to others. This ability to accessorize sets us apart from animals and reflects the complexity of human society.


"I never thought I'd be famous. But when you get in the business, you realize everyone thinks they're going to be a star."

This quote by Tommy Davidson highlights the common aspiration entertainers have of becoming stars, yet it also emphasizes that this dream is not unique, as many individuals believe they too will achieve fame when entering the entertainment industry. It suggests a collective optimism in one's abilities, as well as an awareness that the odds may be against them. Ultimately, it underlines the pursuit of dreams and the realization that the path to success often requires humility and perseverance.


'New Jack City' and 'Boyz 'N the Hood' are realities, but movies like 'Strictly Business' are realities, too.

- Tommy Davidson

Business, City, New, Jack

I can personally feel the relief myself in my audiences when I bring up Obama because there was a lot of anti-Obama sentiment out there before the capture of bin Laden.

- Tommy Davidson

Before, Sentiment, Bin, Relief

I do so many roles, I can't be typecast.

- Tommy Davidson

Roles, Many, Typecast

Stand-up keeps you alive. It is definitely the most specialized field in comedy because you need to stay sharp and well-tuned every night.

- Tommy Davidson

Alive, Need, Specialized, Every Night

'Strictly Business' is about a young black man who is learning about himself, and that applies to a lot of young black men, those who are trying to find jobs. This film gives them a good look at that situation.

- Tommy Davidson

Business, Young, Jobs, Strictly

I'm a creature of adaptation. I take advantage of the second and the moment. My comedy breathes; it's not really that predictable. I do have a linear style, but other than that, there's a lot of abstract. I just go off on what I'm thinking. I'm not that topical. I like to talk about me and my experiences.

- Tommy Davidson

Other, Adaptation, About, Topical

Blacks don't square dance. If you see a black person square dancing, it is definitely the seventh sign.

- Tommy Davidson

Dancing, Black, Sign, Blacks

I used to want to be a singer and a musician for years, from 6 years old to today. I'm not really good, but in time I could be. I'm more of a singer than anything.

- Tommy Davidson

Singer, Old, Could, Musician

I'd like to continue doing movies, clubs, concert halls and television. I like something about each one.

- Tommy Davidson

Doing, Like, Each One, Clubs

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.