By 1979, Bates and Werner disbanded the Off Hour Rockers to start a new group. At that point, Martling started to pursue stand-up comedy full-time, developing his stage act of songs and dirty jokes. During a gig at My Father's Place in Roslyn, New York, Martling met the likes of comedians Eddie Murphy, Rob Bartlett, and Bob Nelson who would perform for several minutes at Martling's gigs. In 1979, he set up a "dial-a-joke" telephone line from his parents' attic, Jackie's "Use Your Finger! (516) 922-WINE", which remains in operation to this day. Also in 1979, Martling released his first comedy album, "What Did You Expect?!" (1979), which he recorded himself using his own recording equipment. This was followed by "Goin' Ape!" (1980).