Black Enterprise is reporting that comedian Kevin Hart, who has been in the stand-up trenches for years, is finally beginning to see his grind pay off.

After embarking on his 90-city Laugh at My Pain Comedy Tour (movie in theaters Sept. 9), the Philadelphia native has broken records, grossing about $15 million in ticket sales in two days, exceeding Eddie Murphy’s “Raw” tour.

Also, his concerts consistently sell out, he’s signed an exclusive deal with AMC to release his movie, he’s launched an app (Little Jumpman) and has scored major endorsements (Ford and Jordan).

But the jokester takes it all in stride as he chats with BlackEnterprise.com about poking fun at himself, what his new wealth now affords him, and why, despite his divorce, he’ll never disrespect his ex.

You’re live comedy concert film, Laugh at My Pain, is hilarious. Yet people think you’re an overnight success. How did you get your start?

My actual break came from Damon Dash and Jay-Z, who saw me perform live and told me they were working on an indie film called Paper Soldiers that they thought I’d be great for. So that was my first film and leading role where I played Shaun, a [brother] whose life is falling apart. He’s in jeopardy of losing everything and he starts robbing houses, but he was terrible at it. It was pretty funny (Laughs).

We bet! One of the things that endears you to millions is your self-deprecating humor. Is that pure comedy or a defense mechanism?

Well, I’ve always been that way and have never forced it and thought, This is how I’m going to say or do this. It’s just a natural instinct of mine. But to some degree, yes, it is a defense mechanism because, in a way, it’s disarming others before they can criticize me.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I’m pretty much an open book. I try not to hide anything and remain front and center on purpose. That way there aren’t any surprises.

Reportedly, you’ve surpassed Eddie Murphy’s live concert record sales by grossing more than $15 million in two days. How have you digested that milestone?

Honestly, I try not to celebrate those numbers because I don’t want to get content and think, I made it. I’m successful! When you start to think that way, you think you don’t need to go any further—so I don’t address it. And Eddie and I are cool, he’s a cool dude. He told me to keep doing what I’m doing, [and that] I’m on the right track.

Who are you mentors?

Chris Rock has given me great advice.

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