Dave Chappelle Honors Adam Ray at YS Firehouse Birthday Bash

Stand-up legend throws shout-out and fiery thanks after fellow comic lights up Ohio venue!

By Poulami Nag

Stand-up Legend’s Birthday Shout-out

Dave Chappelle took to Instagram on April 4 to wish fellow comedian Adam Ray a happy birthday in style. In a post that’s already racking up likes, Chappelle wrote, “Happy Birthday to @adamraycomedy !! Thank you for lighting the @ysfirehouse up!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥 you and Dr. Phil!!” The message, complete with fire emojis, highlighted the camaraderie between two of comedy’s sharpest voices.

A Home Away From Home: Ys Firehouse

Nestled in Yellow Springs, Ohio, the YS Firehouse has become Chappelle’s go-to spot for intimate shows and star-studded gatherings. What started as a local venue hosting pop-up stand-up nights has evolved into a creative hub, drawing talent from across the country. Chappelle’s shout-out underscores the venue’s growing reputation as the place where big-name performers and up-and-comers share the same stage.

Chappelle’s Firehouse Legacy

This isn’t the first time Chappelle has publicly praised the YS Firehouse community. In a recent Instagram post, he gave props to BadBadNotGood, Ghostface Killah and Talib Kweli for braving a tornado warning to deliver what he called a “LEGENDARY night.” That same post thanked photographer @candytman for capturing the electric moments under stormy skies—proving that neither weather nor distance deters Chappelle from bringing world-class acts to a 100-seat firehouse in rural Ohio.

A Birthday Salute To Adam Ray

Adam Ray, known for his sharp wit and viral video sketches, fit right in on Chappelle’s stage. The Los Angeles–based comic has built a following through appearances on MTV’s Guy Code, HBO’s Crashing and stand-up sets at major festivals. His birthday tribute from Chappelle is a nod to Ray’s fast rise in the stand-up world and his ability to “light up” any room—literal or digital.

In his caption, Chappelle also gave a playful shout-out to Dr. Phil, suggesting a surprise on-stage appearance or a behind-the-scenes cameo. As of press time, neither Ray nor the YS Firehouse team has confirmed Dr. Phil’s role in the festivities, but fans are already speculating about late-night confessions in a firehouse basement.

What’s Next For The Firehouse?

Chappelle has hinted at more shows at the renovated firehouse, teasing ticket sales and new acts. In February, he posted a simple “Tickets on sale Friday!!” message that sent the venue’s website crashing under heavy traffic. The comic’s personal endorsements have turned the small Ohio venue into a must-see destination for touring comedians and music acts alike.

Looking Ahead: Adam Ray’s Tour Plans

Riding the wave of Chappelle’s public praise, Adam Ray is gearing up for a spring tour. He’s slated to hit clubs in Chicago, New York and Atlanta, with special guest spots at Chappelle’s hand-picked events. Ray’s agent confirmed that the birthday homage has sparked additional interest, leading to sold-out pre-sales ahead of his headlining dates.

Final Thoughts

Dave Chappelle’s fiery birthday salute to Adam Ray shines a spotlight on both comedians and the unlikely star that is the YS Firehouse. As the venue continues to host headline acts and surprise collaborations, the Ohio brick building has solidified its place on the comedy map. With Chappelle’s backing and Ray’s rising profile, this birthday bash may well become an annual tradition—complete with Dr. Phil cameos and basement confessions—proving that sometimes the biggest stages are hiding in the smallest towns.

protip_icon Trivia
Dave Chappelle has spoken openly about his mental health and the importance of addressing these struggles in the public eye.
disqus_comment
Poulami is an associate editor. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.

Read full bio of Poulami Nag
Latest Articles