Keep Austin Weird, Indeed: Oliver Anthony’s Historic Concert at Joe Rogan’s Comedy Mothership

Austin, Texas, is a city dedicated to its “Keep Austin Weird” mantra, a spirit that infuses its vibrant arts and entertainment scene. In recent years, the city’s comedy landscape has experienced a significant boom, largely driven by the arrival of comedian Joe Rogan and his highly anticipated comedy club, Comedy Mothership.

Comedy Mothership
320 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701

Comedy Mothership: Joe Rogan’s Vision Takes Off in Austin

Rogan, who relocated to Austin, Texas, in 2020, envisioned a top-tier comedy club that would attract top talent from around the world and foster a thriving comedy community. He acquired the historic Ritz building in 2022 and began extensive renovations. Comedy Mothership is located at 320 E 6th Street, offering two unique stages for brilliant talent, including both rising stars and comedy legends, making each show an unforgettable experience.

New Act for a Good Cause

Since its grand opening in March 2023, Comedy Mothership has become the heart of Austin’s comedy scene. However, on June 13th and 14th, 2025, something truly extraordinary happened: Oliver Anthony headlined the “Fat Man” stage, not with jokes, but with the club’s very first musical event, a powerful benefit concert for the Austin Humane Society.

Beyond Comedy: Oliver Anthony’s Historic Musical Debut at Comedy Mothership

Let’s go back in time and remember Oliver Anthony’s surprise appearance at Comedy Mothership in August 2023. During the show, comedian Tom Segura introduced Oliver Anthony. Segura built up the anticipation, telling the crowd they were in for a special treat that “doesn’t always happen, but this does happen when you come to really cool places like the Comedy Mothership.” He then announced Oliver Anthony, whose song “Rich Men North of Richmond” had skyrocketed in popularity, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100, making him the first artist in history to debut at No. 1 without any prior charting history.

Oliver Anthony’s Sound: Raw & Reflective

Since then, Anthony has continued to release music, including his debut album, “Hymnal of a Troubled Man’s Mind,” which was released in March 2024. This album, along with singles like “Cowboys and Sunsets” (released in June 2024) and his most recent track, “Scornful Woman” (released in early June 2025), reflects his consistent style: acoustic, unvarnished, and deeply personal storytelling. His songs often touch on themes of economic hardship, mental health, addiction, and the challenges faced by rural communities.

Live Album Debut at Comedy Mothership

Oliver Anthony, accompanied by talents like the Davisson Brothers Band, didn’t just perform; he poured his soul into a live album recording session, forging a powerful connection with the audience. He performed his iconic “Rich Men North of Richmond,” and beyond his biggest hit, showcased a range of his growing discography, including fan favorites like “Ain’t Gotta Dollar,” “I’ve Got to Get Sober,” and his recent single, “Scornful Woman.” Each song drew enthusiastic applause and often, heartfelt silence as listeners absorbed his storytelling. Joe Rogan was present and highly supportive of Anthony’s presence, sharing his admiration for the artist’s integrity and message. This collaboration between a folk singer and a podcasting and comedy mogul highlights the unconventional path Anthony has taken in the music industry. The live album recording added an extra layer of excitement, with fans knowing they were part of a tangible piece of Anthony’s musical journey.

From Laughter to Lyrics: New Chapter for Comedy Mothership

Every day, I am lucky enough to witness comedians from all over own that stage, but nothing could have prepared me for the very first concert. Being there, surrounded by the incredible sound, watching him connect so genuinely with everyone, and seeing the entire crowd lose themselves in pure joy. It wasn’t just another shift; it was a profound privilege. To witness what the Comedy Mothership is truly capable of, to see the sheer magic this place brings to the Austin community, has filled me with an overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude.

“Oliver isn’t exactly a consistent touring musician, so being able to witness him, his band, and even the opening band perform in such an intimate atmosphere was really one of a kind. I loved when Oliver would speak in between songs, too. Telling stories behind each song and explaining how this concert unfolded behind the scenes. Oliver himself admitted that he couldn’t believe he was there. It’s inspiring to think about.”

– Chase Otero