WTF with Marc Maron Podcast Episode 1666 - Questlove
9 snips
Aug 4, 2025 
Questlove, the talented drummer of The Roots and an Oscar-winning filmmaker, shares his artistic journey from playing in his dad's band at age 12 to co-founding a groundbreaking hip-hop group. He opens up about his insecurities as an artist, the pivotal decision for The Roots to become a late-night house band, and the emotions behind winning an Oscar shortly after the infamous slap incident. Questlove also reveals his motivation for creating a documentary about Sly Stone, combining personal reflections and insights from the music industry.
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The Roots' Busking Origins
- Questlove and Tariq began The Roots by busking on the streets of Philadelphia, earning enough to keep going.
- Their busking led to gigs at colleges and clubs, building their early fan base slowly but steadily.
Thriller's Double-Edged Impact
- Michael Jackson's Thriller album revolutionized music but also led to a focus on solo pop careers.
- This shift diminished the importance of black musicianship and bands in the late 1980s.
Early Music Start With Father
- Questlove started performing with his father's nightclub act as a child, even leading a full show at Radio City Music Hall.
- This early start immersed him in music and shaped his lifelong career.