Smooth-E uses hits made popular by commercial artists and turns them into derivative works of art (aka parodies) that are uniquely his own. The most impressive aspect of this process is his ability to not only mimic, but to emulate the musicality (phrasing, tonality, arrangement, etc.) of the original performers.

Tracks such as “Crank That Kosha Boy,” (originally “Crank That (Soulja Boy)” by Soulja Boy), “Knit Me Sweaters,” (originally “Make Me Better” by Fabolous), and “Sexual Dysfunction” (originally “Sexual Eruption” by Snoop Dogg), typify the caliber of his work, but only scratch the surface of his comedic genius.

In order to fully understand and appreciate both Smooth-E and Eric Schwartz, you have to experience him visually: in videos and in person.

While most comedians tend to thrive in one particular genre, Eric displays chameleon like powers when adapting to different characters during his vignettes and music videos. His video for the track, “Milli Vanilli,” and the aforementioned “Crank That Kosha Boy,” get my nod for two of the most entertaining and well-produced independent videos that I’ve seen.

In the arena of stand-up comedy, Eric Schwartz brings infectious energy which ignites an audience. The stage is the meeting place where all of his talents and characterizations come together.

You are not waiting for him to say or do something funny; he is funny. He’s also humorous. Yes, there’s a difference. Humor, as defined by the Merriam Webster dictionary, is the mental faculty of discovering, expressing, or appreciating the ludicrous or absurdly incongruous. That takes intellect, which Eric Schwartz (the comedic mastermind) has in abundance. When he is joined in intervals on stage by Smooth-E (the alter-ego rapper) for musical relief, it’s non-stop, unadulterated entertainment.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it once more: Eric Schwartz will be the biggest star that I’ve ever reviewed on the Muse’s Muse. Pick up a Parodies Nuts and you will see why.