The Questlove Show

Mannie Fresh joins Questlove to trace his journey from a DJ’s son in New Orleans to one of Hip-Hop’s most influential producers. He reflects on the birth of Bounce music, the creation of Cash Money classics like “Ha,” “Back That Azz Up,” “Bling Bling,” and “Still Fly,” working with Teena Marie, and his hopes for a unified Cash Money and No Limit moment. As Black History Month kicks off, this is Southern Hip-Hop history told straight from one of its chief architects—explaining how a rich tradition of Black music informed his inventive, era-defining style.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest “minisode” of The Questlove Show, Ahmir answers questions from the audience—ranging from his top five TV theme songs (pulled largely from 1970s and ’80s television, with plenty of context and backstory) to reflections on some of the show’s most challenging interviews. He talks about why asking personal questions matters, especially when guests struggle to elaborate, and how those moments can still unlock something human. Quest also shares anecdotes about the technical challenges of syncing music to film, his love of off-beat rhythms, and the lasting influence of J Dilla.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questlove sits down with Sonic Youth co-founder and avant-garde icon Kim Gordon for a candid, funny, and surprisingly vulnerable conversation about imposter syndrome, the Downtown/No Wave era, and how a visual artist became a profoundly influential bassist, singer, and producer. Kim talks about embracing spontaneity in the studio, discovering dissonance alongside Public Enemy at Greene Street Studios, accidentally launching her solo career with producer Justin Raisen, and navigating motherhood. She also reflects on recently updating her memoir and her role in the film Chronology of Water. One of music’s enduring arbiters of cool joins The Questlove Show—take heed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Travel back to summer 2017 for a Classic Questlove Supreme conversation with singer, songwriter and lead vocalist for The Gap Band, Charlie Wilson. He talks about signing with Snoop Dogg, showing Michael Jackson the moonwalk and other ways his work has influenced music and pop culture.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listener questions spark stories about James Brown’s studio techniques and improvisational recording style. He names favorite stand-up comics and talks about comedy that takes risks. The conversation celebrates meditative, Afro-futurist music that soothes and inspires. Updates arrive on a major band’s new album and a classic funk documentary. He also shares a quirky birthday ritual: a 16-hour movie marathon with snacks.

A$AP Rocky, a multi-talented rapper and designer from Harlem, shares insights into his creative journey and new project, DON'T BE DUMB. He discusses his collaboration with Tim Burton, highlighting unique personas he crafted for the album. Rocky reflects on staying grounded amid fame, his Harlem roots, and the influences of classic Hip-Hop. He also talks about resilience in the face of rejection and the importance of honesty in personal relationships. Expect a mix of music, culture, and introspection as he connects life experiences with artistic expression.

Revisit this classic episode from the QLS archives. Attorney, political advisor and TV commentator Angela Rye talks about the current political climate, her part in bringing about change and some of the ways everyone can get involved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questlove dives into listener questions, revealing the rich backstory behind the show's iconic theme music, influenced by the Soulquarians. He reflects on the making of The Roots' Game Theory, sharing fascinating tales of recording challenges and J Dilla's impact. A student query about drumming sparks a discussion on its importance in communication. Questlove also contemplates potential jazz collaborations, recalling a missed opportunity with Christian McBride. Expect insights, nostalgia, and a peek into his creative mind!

In this insightful conversation, Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Samara Joy shares her deep admiration for Carmen McRae and how her influential style shapes Joy's own singing. She recounts her experiences recording at the iconic Rudy Van Gelder's studio, where she captured her septet's live acoustic chemistry. Joy discusses the meticulous process of writing lyrics for compositions by Mingus and Sun Ra, her musical family background, and memorable performances. With aspirations for authenticity, she reflects on her journey and future projects in jazz.

The Revolution, members of Prince's band, discuss his early days, his life, and the truth behind the legend. Topics include Prince's influence on other musicians, challenges faced during live performances, being thrown off stage at a Rolling Stones concert, a wild and chaotic incident during a tour, Lisa and Wendy's upbringing in a creative environment, discovering Prince from fan to friend, Lisa's father and stolen keyboards, collaboration and Middle Eastern influences, the reunion of The Revolution, gratitude expressed towards someone, conversations with Prince's original guitarist and bassist, forming a band with Prince, early television debut and unique style, going out to nightclubs at a young age, meeting Prince and strange encounters, reflections on fame and humility, and Prince's interviews and dancing.