Getting To Know Wild N Out’s Darren Brand, A Hardworking, Gifted and Resilient Comedian In The Industry

In this highlight we turn our attention to MTV Wild N Out’s Darren Brand, a humble and wildly talented entertainer hot on the scene. I was recently fortunate enough to interview Darren Brand, here is what we discussed:

Tell us a little about yourself, where your from, grew up, what H.S./College you attended, etc.

I was born in Southern Pines, NC; a small country town about 40 miles west of Fayetteville/Fort Bragg area. It’s a small little country town; many people know of it because [Michael] Jordan goes there to golf. I attended Pine Crest High School where I started hosting and performing every chance I could — for talent shows, in plays, the chorus, you name it! I attend NC A&T for college to major in Graphic Communication and stayed involved and became [SGA] Vice President. Growing up, I didn’t really have the “best” family situation, so I kept [myself] very active during my school years. I was always the class clown; but more importantly, I was glad to be the guy everyone was happy to be around.

What inspired you to be an entertainer? Early experiences worth sharing?

Nothing really had to ‘inspire’ me to become an entertainer. [I believe] “God has given each individual person a talent and I just happened to discover mine.” I really started to discover that what came naturally — having good energy, self-confidence, overall being naturally funny — it’s not something I have to really work hard at. Back in middle school, I did it all; I used to freestyle rap, I hosted a Martin Luther King Jr. event for the first time ever, I performed at churches, singing Sister Act 2 songs and living all of my experiences gave me the confidence to do more.

Talk about a time where you have faced adversity/conflict and have triumphed.

Back in my 3rd season of Wild’N Out, I had to re-audition for my spot. That experience not only taught me a lot about the politics of the entertainment industry, but it also solidified my position as a core WNO cast member for the following 3 seasons.

What do you believe sets you apart from other entertainers?

My energy sets me apart from everyone else. I call myself the ‘Energy God’ because when I walk into a room, I command the ability to have everyone there sit up and become engaged. It’s like a superpower, it all comes from God; I don’t know how else to explain it.

Do you have other interests or hobbies?

When I’m not touring, I like working out, going to the movies, and spending time with my friends.

Any projects you have out or currently working on?

Currently, my first stand-up special — AirBNB — with my brother Chico Bean is in the works, you can catch me and Timothy Delaghetto on Basic to Bougie every Tuesday airing on MTV’s YouTube channel. Right now I’m touring at colleges and universities throughout the homecoming season; also I’m still on the road with B. Simone’s You’re My Boooyfriend tour along with Desi Banks.

Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?

Alive.

What advice can you give to aspiring entertainers?

My advice is simple: Don’t quit. Be consistent and be current. Stay on top of what’s going on, know what’s going on in the world and in your industry.

How can we follow along in your journey? Social Media?

You can always keep up with me at my site DarrenBrand.com or social media @darrenbrand_.