Albert Brooks

Albert Brooks was a poet of neurosis, one of the most unique and acclaimed comedic voices of the late 20th century. Although his career as a stand-up proved short-lived and secondary in light of his success as a filmmaker, his slim recorded output remains groundbreaking, and expanded the boundaries of the comedy album format in new and unexpected ways. Brooks was born Albert Einstein (really) in Beverly Hills, California on July 22, 1947; his father was radio comedian Harry Einstein, best known for his character Parkyakarkus, while his brother Bob later found success with his creation Super Dave Osborne. After studying drama at the Carnegie Institute of Technology, Brooks began performing as a stand-up comedian, and made his national debut on The Steve Allen Show. A stint as a regular on The Dean Martin Show followed, as did appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show, The Tonight Show, The Merv Griffin Show and The Hollywood Palace. He also opened for Neil Diamond and Richie Havens. In 1973, Brooks issued his debut LP, Comedy Minus One, which comprised both live stand-up bits and studio performances; the title track, performed with George Jessel, was a bit of interactive entertainment allowing the listener to participate in the sketch. Around the same time he made his directorial debut with the short film Albert Brooks' Famous School for Comedians, a piece created for the PBS series The Great American Dream Machine based on an article he wrote for Esquire magazine in 1971. The Grammy-nominated 1975 album A Star Is Bought (featuring guest appearances from Rob Reiner, Linda Ronstadt and Harry Shearer) followed, as did his film debut in Martin Scorsese's 1976 masterpiece Taxi Driver. Brooks declined an invitation from producer Lorne Michaels to assume permanent hosting duties of...