If you were to look up the definition of the word versatility in a dictionary of performers, chances are you'd find the name BRIAN COPELAND somewhere near the top. The multitalented comedian, writer, television host, talk radio host and commentator has basked in the glow of both public and critical acclaim for nearly a decade.
Copeland's incisive, cutting-edge standup comedy material won him San Francisco's prestigious Cabaret Gold Award as well as top prize in the Monterey Laugh Off. His unique… Show more ability to hilariously cut to the heart of some of our most serious social and political problems has earned him spots as the opening act for such diverse artists as Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Dionne Warwick, Donna Summer, Peabo Bryson, Al Jarreau, Ringo Starr, Manhattan Transfer, Steve Allen, Dana Carvey, Kevin Pollack, Rick Springfield, Lionel Richie, Lou Rawls, George Benson, Patti La bell, Etta James, Gregory Hines, The Righteous Brothers, The Temptations, and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin.
He has appeared at such venues as Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas, The Taj Mahal and Trump Palace in Atlantic City, the Nugget in Reno as well as clubs, colleges, and concert halls across America.
Copeland's quick wit and probing interview style earned him a five year position as co-host of San Francisco Fox affiliate KTVU's top rated breakfast program Mornings on 2 where he did everything from man on the street comedy bits to chatting up stars such as Dustin Hoffman and Garth Brooks. His biting social commentary segment Copeland's Corner appeared daily on KTVU's Noon News prompting San Francisco Examiner columnist Rob Morse to call Copeland 'the best commentator on television'. This distinction led to a weekly national segment on NBC's long- running late night show Friday Night called The World According to Copeland.
After viewing Copeland on television, the legendary Steve Allen called him 'The brightest comedy mind I've seen in years'.
Copeland's work on television and stage soon caught the attention of San Francisco ABC radio affiliate KGO, which premiered The Brian Copeland Show in 1995. With his unique blend of humor and riveting talk, the program soon slayed the competition. It remains the most listened to program in its time slot reaching over 100,000 listeners.
Of Copeland's radio work, Brad Kava of the San Jose Mercury News wrote, 'Brian Copeland is the Black Howard Stern. He's so far over the edge, he comes back around the other side...be careful listening in the car though...could lead to accidents from laughing so hard!'
In addition to his work in broadcasting and on the comedy stage, Copeland is a serious writer with articles appearing in national newspapers and magazines.
Brian Copeland lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife Susie, a musician and educator, and his children Adam, Carolyn and Casey.
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