Bill Engvall has shared the origins of his famous “here’s your sign” line. The backstory to the popular comedian’s signature saying is just as hilarious as expected. Watch the short but hysterical clip to hear how he came up with his “here’s your sign” refrain.
Making a living as a stand-up comedian is a tall order. Thousands of people dream of doing just that. However, having a dream and making that dream a reality are two entirely different things. Some comedians go years without making it big, never getting their big break. Others, for whatever reason, connect with audiences and become massive draws, making millions of dollars.
Whatever the case may be, many comedians have a signature line, catchphrase or joke they are known for. It helps set them apart from all the rest, because maybe even if people don’t know the comedian’s name, they might know their catchphrase. Bill Engvall is one of those comedians with one of the most recognizable catchphrases: “Here’s your sign.”
In a clip posted on YouTube, the longtime comedian shares how that phrase came about and how it has changed over the years. He also mentioned how the phrase perfectly describes many people, including people who would buy his merchandise in the early days of his career.
“Back in the old club days, when I was doing that, the bit used to say, ‘That I thought stupid people should be slapped,’” Bill says. “But, you know, my wife was looking out for me, and she said, ‘You know, you don’t look like the kind of guy who walks around slapping people.’”
Based on his wife’s critique, Bill came up with the idea of a sign individuals would wear that said, “I’m stupid.” He even started selling such signs. While selling those signs, Bill discovered that there was a lot of truth to what he was saying on stage.
“And I used to sell those little signs after the shows for a $1 apiece or two for $5,” he said. “And you would be amazed at how many people paid two for $5. Instead of, go figure. Here’s their sign.”
Job 8:21 “The time will come when your mouth will be full of laughing, and cries of joy will come from your lips.”