Conan O'Brien chats with legendary hip-hop musician Questlove about his classical musical training, the genesis of The Roots, and curating experimental playlists for high-profile friends. They also discuss the tension between personal aspirations and societal expectations, reminisce about high school days, and reflect on the influence of music in their lives.
Resilience and loyalty were key factors in The Roots' success as a band.
The realization of the importance of genuine friendship within a band inspired The Roots to strengthen their bond.
Being the house band on The Tonight Show gave The Roots a fresh start and allowed them to embrace their creativity and friendship.
Deep dives
The Roots' Journey to Success and Collaboration with Jimmy Fallon
Questlove discusses the early days of The Roots, their struggles in the music industry, and their decision to sign with Geffen Records. He shares how they maintained resilience and loyalty to each other, going on tour with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and the importance of friendship within the band. Questlove credits Jimmy Fallon's ability to create a fun and collaborative environment on The Tonight Show as a turning point in their relationship, leading to a genuine friendship among the band members.
The Importance of Gratitude and Bonding as a Band
Questlove recalls a pivotal moment during the European tour with the Chili Peppers where he learned the significance of genuine friendship within a band. He explains how the Chili Peppers' frequent huddles during performances were moments of gratitude and appreciation for the journey they had taken together. This realization inspired The Roots to focus on building their own friendship, leading to a stronger bond and a more enjoyable experience as a band.
The Evolution of The Roots and a Fresh Start on The Tonight Show
Questlove reflects on the challenges The Roots faced as a band, including financial struggles and potential label issues. He shares how their opportunity to become the house band on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon provided a fresh start and an opportunity to reinvent themselves. Questlove highlights the supportive and collaborative environment created by Jimmy Fallon, allowing The Roots to embrace their creativity and friendship, ultimately leading to a new chapter in their career.
Can Sam's Early Music Career at Radio City Music Hall
Can Sam's first gig was at Radio City Music Hall when he was just 12 years old. Despite his young age, Can Sam had the skills to perform like an adult musician. However, he quickly realized that his passion was not in performing, but rather in creating music playlists for others.
Can Sam's Playlist Journey and Influence
Can Sam's playlist making journey started with the Obama family, who asked him to create a playlist for them. From there, Can Sam's playlist making expanded, reaching a wide range of influential people, including Spike Lee, Jay-Z, and Martha Stewart. Can Sam sees music as nourishment, with each song having the potential to inspire and expand people's musical palates.
Legendary hip-hop musician Questlove feels fine with being Conan O’Brien’s friend.
Questlove sits down with Conan to discuss his classical musical training, the improbable genesis of The Roots, how they “pulled a Hendrix” to come out on top, and curating experimental playlists for high-profile friends.
For Conan videos, tour dates and more visit TeamCoco.com.
This episode was recorded on 6/20/23.
Get access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using this show link: https://siriusxm.com/conan.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode