Billboard Covers Patton Oswalt, David Cross and Other "Indie" Comics

A new article in Billboard discusses the growing trend of comedians appearing at indie rock festivals and on indie rock labels. There are a couple quotes from the Human Giant guys, and this interesting bit from the head of Sub Pop:

"We saw a community of like-minded individuals that really
resembled the indie music scene," he says. The label's first
release, Cross' 2002 album "Shut Up You F—ing Baby,"
validated that belief. It went on to sell 109,000 copies in the
United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

"Back in 2002, we were at a low point for the label — a
far cry from where the indie community is today," Kiewel
recalls. "I think we had one artist that had scanned over
20,000 at that point of the active roster. But these
(comedians) were touring and selling out places, getting on
morning radio shows and late-night television, and they weren't
promoting anything. That just seemed really interesting to me."

So there you have it. The next time you're enjoying a Band of Horses or Iron and Wine record, remember that you've got David Cross to thank.

For the complete article, check out Indie comedy finds footing at music festivals.

Previously: Human Giant – The Bluegrass of Comedy