The podcast discusses The Roots' breakthrough album 'Things Fall Apart' and the creation of the Philadelphia open mic scene. Guests Jill Scott and Musiq Soulchild share their experiences from legendary jam sessions. Questlove, the superproducer from Detroit, is introduced to Dilla, leading to a new sound. The speakers also explore topics like hip hop therapy, finding an audience, and the influence of fashion on their youth.
The success of The Roots' album 'Things Fall Apart' was due to their strategy of 'growing their own crops,' creating their own movement and context.
J Dilla had a profound influence on Questlove and The Roots' musical direction, shaping their production techniques and drumming style.
Deep dives
Introduction of McDonald's collaboration with Kerwin Frost
McDonald's has brought back the plastic McNugget buddies toys in a collaboration with Kerwin Frost. Each Kerwin Frost box comes with a new McNugget buddy collectible designed by Kerwin Frost himself, with unique, interchangeable outfits. The toys feature cute neighborhood characters, including one named after Kerwin, who spreads positivity and encouragement.
The Roots' breakthrough album, Things Fall Apart
The podcast explores the story of The Roots' breakthrough album, Things Fall Apart. According to Questlove, the album's success was driven by a strategy of 'growing your own crops,' which involved creating their own movement and context. The album initially had modest sales but helped the group gain a dedicated following through relentless touring and opening for acts like The Fugees. The episode highlights the impact of the album's release, including winning Grammy Awards and becoming recognized nationally.
The creative process and inspiration behind Voodoo
The podcast delves into the creative process behind D'Angelo's album Voodoo. Questlove discusses his initial encounter with D'Angelo's music and the significant influence it had on him. He shares the experience of recording and jamming with D'Angelo at Electric Lady Studios, exploring genres and artists that inspired them, and refining their sound. The episode touches on the importance of the jam sessions and the organic growth of the Soulquarian movement.
The influence and mentorship of J Dilla
The podcast emphasizes the profound influence of J Dilla on Questlove and The Roots' musical direction. Questlove recounts how Dilla's cassette copy of Fantastic Vol. 1 sparked their creative journey. He discusses Dilla's approach to production, experimenting with sounds, and breaking conventions. Questlove became an apprentice at 'Dilla University,' learning from Dilla's unique production techniques and approach to bass tones. Dilla's mentorship deeply impacted Questlove's drumming style and his commitment to capturing the essence of sampled records in his performances.
In this episode we arrive at The Roots' breakthrough album 1999's Things Fall Apart. With the success of the single and video for What They Do positioning them for stardom they begin to put together the Philadelphia open mic scene that would attract talents like Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild and more for legendary jam sessions. Plus a superproducer from Detroit emerges as the guiding light for a new sound as Questlove is introduced to Dilla by way of a very expensive phone call.