Nate Bargatze, known for his clean, observational humor, has become one of the most beloved comedians in the modern comedy scene. His journey to stardom wasn’t an overnight success but a tale of perseverance, hard work, and countless nights in comedy clubs across Chicago and New York City. This article explores the pivotal venues where Bargatze honed his craft, the unique characteristics of each place, and how these experiences shaped his comedic style and career.

The Chicago Years:

• Zanies Comedy Club: Bargatze’s comedy journey began in earnest in Chicago, where he was a regular at Zanies. Known for its intimate setting, Zanies allowed comedians like Bargatze to develop a close connection with the audience. Here, he performed alongside established acts, learning to refine his timing and delivery. Zanies was not just a stage but a school for comedians, offering open mic nights where Bargatze could test new material.
  • Impact: The club’s reputation for supporting up-and-coming talent gave Bargatze a platform to grow his confidence and style, focusing on humor that resonated universally without relying on shock value.
• Jokes and Notes: Another key venue in Chicago was Jokes and Notes, where Bargatze performed during his early days. Known for its diverse crowds, this club helped him understand how to adapt humor for different audiences, a skill that would serve him well throughout his career.
  • Cultural Melting Pot: Performing here, Bargatze learned to engage with a wide range of people, tailoring his Southern sensibility to the urban, eclectic vibe of Chicago.

Transition to New York:

• The Boston Comedy Club: Upon moving to New York in 2004, Bargatze found a new home at The Boston Comedy Club. This spot was crucial for him as it was where he really started to make a name for himself in a scene known for its cutthroat competition. The club was renowned for its challenging room setup, where comics had to win over an often indifferent crowd.
  • Learning Curve: Here, Bargatze’s clean comedy was a refreshing contrast to the more edgy material prevalent in NYC. He became known for his ability to make people laugh without resorting to profanity or controversial topics, earning respect and slots in more prestigious shows.
• Comedy Cellar: Bargatze also spent time at the legendary Comedy Cellar, a place where comedians are judged by their peers as much as the audience. This venue was where he could rub shoulders with comedy greats, witnessing firsthand the art of stand-up at its finest.
  • Mentorship and Observation: The Cellar’s atmosphere was part masterclass, part battleground, where Bargatze’s Southern charm and storytelling ability were tested and refined.
• Stand-up New York: Bargatze’s presence at Stand-up New York helped him gain exposure to a broader New York audience. This club, with its more intimate setting, allowed him to connect deeply with his audience, much like in his Chicago days.
  • Audience Interaction: Here, his craft of engaging with the crowd became more sophisticated, adding layers to his already engaging performances.

The Influence of These Clubs:

• Style Development: Each club contributed uniquely to Bargatze’s style. Chicago’s clubs taught him the importance of relatability and clean humor, while New York’s venues sharpened his delivery, pacing, and adaptability to different audience types.
• Networking: The connections made in these clubs were invaluable. From managers to fellow comedians, these relationships opened doors to television spots, which were crucial for his ascent in the comedy world.
• Material Evolution: Bargatze’s material evolved through these experiences, from observational humor about life in Tennessee to broader, more universal themes that could resonate with a New York crowd and beyond.

Breakthrough Moments:

• Late Night Shows: His time in these comedy clubs culminated in appearances on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” and “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” These were not just career milestones but validations of the years spent perfecting his act in the clubs.
• Festival Wins: Winning at the New York Comedy Festival and Boston Comedy Festival in 2013 were direct results of the hard work and recognition he gained from his club performances.

Legacy and Continued Influence:

• Return to Roots: Even as Bargatze’s career took him to arenas and Netflix specials, he often returns to the clubs where he started, valuing the raw, immediate feedback of live comedy.
• Inspiring New Comedians: His success story from these venues serves as inspiration for new comedians, illustrating that with talent, persistence, and a unique voice, one can rise from local clubs to international acclaim.

Conclusion:

Nate Bargatze’s journey from the comedy clubs of Chicago to those in New York City is a testament to the power of grassroots comedy. Each club played a role in shaping not just his career but also his identity as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up.” His story is not just about where he performed but how these places influenced his humor, making it more inclusive, sharp, and genuinely funny. As Bargatze continues to tour and produce content, the lessons from those early days remain integral to his ongoing success.

Sources:

• Interviews with Nate Bargatze from various podcasts, articles, and media appearances.
• Information from club websites, historical data on comedians’ performances, and reviews from the early 2000s to the present.
• Web results from the provided search, focusing on Bargatze’s career trajectory and specific comedy clubs.