Atlanta rap legend T.I. has taken on a new challenge in his evolving career. On Christmas Eve, he debuted his comedy special, Cheaper Than Therapy, marking his most serious foray yet into stand-up comedy.
In classic T.I. fashion, sesquipedalian and unapologetic, he pushed back against critics in an interview, asking, “Why wouldn’t I be afforded the same peace of mind, tranquility, and therapeutic releases as you are afforded?” It wouldn’t be on brand without a grandiloquent double-down, as he also emphasized the sacrifices he’s made, claiming he turned his back on six-figure music opportunities to pursue comedy.
Rappers are known for unwavering confidence, which at times can cross the line into delusion. I’m a strong believer in self-confidence, especially when the world doubts you. I love rooting for underdogs who are bold enough to defy the odds and chase greatness. So, if the stars are aligned for the Urban Legend emcee to shine in comedy, I’ll be the first to give him his flowers.
That said, at this very moment, he’s simply not that funny. More importantly, his obdurate approach and his arrogance toward seasoned comedians who’ve offered opinions or genuine advice makes it difficult to support him. In my view, he’s isolating himself rather than integrating into a craft that requires vulnerability, humility, and growth.
A recent example played out after a miscommunication between T.I. and comedy icon Godfrey during a shared comedy show. The situation was later addressed on Godfrey’s podcast, In Godfrey We Trust. Even there, T.I. appeared unreceptive to the panel’s guidance. He remained on the defensive, making it clear that no man could tell him what he can or cannot do.
Veteran comedian Aries Spears also weighed in, posting on Instagram that the key word is humility. When entering a new space, Spears argued, you must humble yourself, accept guidance, and learn from those who came before you. Confidence is necessary, but comedy isn’t a field where the bravado that fuels rap superstardom automatically translates to success.
I agree with these sentiments wholeheartedly. If you’re going to be arrogant and resistant to constructive criticism, then at the very least your work should justify that confidence.
Fortunately for T.I., neither my opinion nor any comedian’s opinion truly determines his fate. Plenty of supporters have come to his defense online, including rapper Fat Joe and various fans who claim they’ve attended his recent shows and found him funny and improving significantly since being booed at Barclays Center in 2022.
Cheaper Than Therapy isn’t available on major streaming platforms, so viewers must visit www.tipaintfunny.com to form their own opinion on the King of Atlanta’s transition into stand-up comedy. At the end of the day, comedy, like music, is subjective.
The biggest takeaway here isn’t whether T.I. is funny or not. It’s about belief. If you live for the applause, you’ll die by the boos. Follow your heart. Live your dream.
Justin C. Hamby
@deycallmesoul
