logo
episode-header-image
Jan 2025
1h 30m

Club Shay Shay - Donnell Rawlings Part 1

iHeartPodcasts, The Volume, and Shay Shay Media
About this episode

In this special episode of Club Shay Shay, Shannon Sharpe welcomes the legendary comedian, actor, and writer Donnell Rawlings to the luxurious Villa 66 at Resorts World Las Vegas. With over 30 years in the entertainment industry, Donnell takes us on a hilarious and insightful journey through his iconic career, from his unforgettable roles on The Chappelle Show and The Wire to his work as a stand-up comedian.

Donnell reflects on the evolution of comedy, the influence of the DMV comedy scene, and the legends who shaped it, including Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle, and Wanda Sykes. He shares candid stories from his time on The Wire, and reflects on how the show’s groundbreaking portrayal of Baltimore changed the landscape of television. Donnell also reveals behind-the-scenes moments with co-stars like Idris Elba and the unique dynamics of the show.

Donnell opens up about his collaborations, including how he brought Bill Burr on tour before Burr became a household name. He shares the story of their "Rich B**** Tour," where he believed in Burr’s talent before the world caught on, leading to both financial success and creative fulfillment. He also touches on the importance of crossover appeal in comedy, navigating both the Black (Chitlin Circuit) and mainstream comedy clubs to appeal to diverse audiences and positioning himself alongside the best in the business.

The conversation touches on the strategies that helped comedians like Kevin Hart achieve longevity. Donnell emphasizes the importance of using opportunities wisely and respecting different paths to success in the industry.

Donnell also reflects on his career, discussing the roles he didn’t get and controversial topics in entertainment, such as gender expression and the public perception of performers. He discusses respecting the craft of acting, acknowledging when others are better suited for roles, and appreciating artistry, like Katt Williams’ Emmy-winning performance on Atlanta. Donnell recounts auditioning for roles, including Ving Rhames’ part in Holiday Heart, and reflects on how exposure to icons like Tyler Perry highlights the power of creative ownership.

The conversation takes an interesting turn as Donnell reflects on his experiences at Hollywood parties. He explains that some of these gatherings are merely regular social events, while others may involve more questionable activities. Donnell highlights how Hollywood's image has been shaped by various stories and experiences, particularly the contrast between parties in different communities.

With unfiltered humor and larger-than-life energy, Donnell keeps it real about life, love, and chasing happiness in all its flavors. Tune in for a conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and unforgettable moments that showcase the incredible journey of a true comedy legend. 

 

#volume 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Up next
Today
520 In The Morning - Jeff Teague REACTS to Nikola Jokic NOT SIGNING EXTENSION with Nuggets, Chet signs $250 million max
On the Wednesday, July 9 episode of 520 in the Morning, Jeff Teague, DJ Wells, and B Hen react to Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic not wanting to sign an extension this offseason. Teague and the guys get into what that means for both the Nuggets and Jokic's future, and why h ... Show More
1h 15m
Today
Club Shay Shay - Johnny Manziel Part 1 REWIND
Club Shay Shay welcomes Johnny Manziel for a candid conversation with Shannon Sharpe. In this episode, the Texas legend boldly declares Kyler Murray as the best high school quarterback to ever come out of the state, even placing him above Patrick Mahomes and himself. He shares in ... Show More
1h 6m
Today
Club Shay Shay - Johnny Manziel Part 2 REWIND
Johnny Manziel continues the conversation with self-awareness of the spectacle that followed him in college and acknowledges the tens of millions of dollars he might have garnered in today's NIL era and passionately advocates for the NCAA to return Reggie Bush his Heisman Trophy. ... Show More
1h 12m
Recommended Episodes
Sep 2024
Marlon Wayans Part 2
In Part 2, Marlon Wayans gives credit to his brother Keenen's talent-spotting abilities, noting how Keenen discovered major stars like Tommy Davidson, Jim Carrey, and Jennifer Lopez, and he reminisces about the legendary four-year run of In Living Color. Marlon shares stories abo ... Show More
1h 4m
Nov 2022
Jordan Peele
Jordan Peele (Get Out, Nope, Wendell & Wild) is an actor, comedian, and filmmaker. Jordan joins the Armchair Expert to discuss why he loves the horror and comedy genres, why doing films that have meaning is so important to him, and how he approaches character development in his s ... Show More
1h 34m
Oct 2024
Matt Rife on Crowd Work and Handling Well Meaning Annoying Hecklers
Sebastian Maniscalco tals  about the challenges and beauty of live performances and balancing showmanship with humor.  Matt Rife on crowd work and handling hecklers, and reveals his strategy on managing social media impact. Myq Kaplan shares about the varying methodologies among ... Show More
8m 31s
Feb 2025
Club Shay Shay - Gillie Da Kid Part 1
Join us for an unforgettable episode of Club Shay Shay as Shannon Sharpe sits down with the one and only Gillie Da Kid! A Philly legend, hip-hop icon, media personality, and die-hard Eagles fan, Gillie brings his signature energy, humor, and wisdom to the show in a conversation p ... Show More
1h 31m
Feb 2025
D.L. Hughley: "I Have Something To Say" | Full Episode | ALL THE SMOKE
Legendary comedian and best-selling author D.L. Hughley joins All the Smoke to share his unfiltered thoughts on politics, the evolution of comedy, and more. In this candid conversation, Hughley explains why he felt the need to speak up and why he decided to join the show, saying, ... Show More
55m 23s
Jan 2025
Karol Markowicz Show: The Intersection of Comedy and Music with Ami Kozak
In this episode, Ami Kozak shares his journey as a comedian, musician, and advocate for Israel. He discusses the impact of recent events on his advocacy work, the intersection of comedy and music, and his experiences with parenting. Ami reflects on societal changes, the importanc ... Show More
33m 8s
Sep 2024
Ilana Glazer: Just Two Broads in the City
What happens when two "Broads" sit down for a podcast? Find out, as actor, writer, producer & standup comedian, Ilana Glazer joins Kelly to discuss her experience creating, starring and eventually walking away from the hit show, "Broad City". Kelly talks about her experience gues ... Show More
50m 26s
Dec 2024
Cedric the Entertainer: Malice at the Palace, Jordan's Gambling, and Legendary Comedy Secrets
In the latest electrifying episode of ALL THE SMOKE, Cedric the Entertainer joins Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson for an explosive conversation that's part stand-up comedy, part insider storytelling. Ever wondered about the most hilarious take on the infamous Malice at the Palace ... Show More
1h 16m
Aug 2024
Tyrese Gibson Part 1
Tyrese Gibson joins Shannon Sharpe in this episode of Club Shay Shay for an unfiltered and insightful conversation that dives deep into his life, career, and the experiences that have shaped him. The episode starts on a playful note as Tyrese humorously tells Shannon he needs to ... Show More
1h 15m
Dec 2024
Katt Williams
This week on Good One, Katt Williams returns to the podcast. Recorded live at 2024’s Vulture Festival, Williams discusses his Club Shay Shay interview, his upcoming comedy tour, and how he taught Steph Curry to shoot. Watch the interview over at Youtube.com/Vulture! Order Jesse's ... Show More
59m 30s