The Questlove Show
iHeartPodcasts
The Questlove Show builds on the award-winning Questlove Supreme podcast, bringing listeners into intimate, one-on-one conversations with peers, influences, and friends. Hosted by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, each episode uncovers the unexpected — from morning rituals and hidden talents to the art and experiences that shaped a guest’s journey. Sometimes playful, sometimes profound, always curious, QLS offers rare insight into leaders in music, film, television, comedy, literature, mental health, and beyond. It’s a fresh, unpredictable spin from a trusted source — a place where randomness is encouraged, tangents are welcomed, and conversations are anything but ordinary.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 9, 2024 • 1h 33min
QLS Classic: Lena Waithe
Guest Lena Waithe, known for her work on shows like Master of None and The Chi, discusses the state of black television, the lifecycle of a script, and working on shows like Master of None and The Chi.
Sep 4, 2024 • 1h 3min
Questlove Supreme: Billy Porter Part 1
Billy Porter joins Questlove Supreme for a spirited two-part interview. In Part 1, Billy recalls his Pittsburgh upbringing around the stage and some of his earliest musical memories. The Emmy, Tony, and Grammy Award-winning artist also explains why he has fought so hard to be respected across mediums and asserts why his new EP, Black Mona Lisa: The Cookout Sessions, commands a new lane for himself — with an exclamation point.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aug 28, 2024 • 1h 23min
Questlove Supreme: Johnny Marr
One of the greatest guitarists of all time, Johnny Marr, joins Questlove Supreme to talk about his playing style and extensive career. The Roots' Captain Kirk Douglas joins the conversation as a special guest co-host. Marr speaks about growing up in Manchester, England, and co-founding The Smiths. He touches on his time with Modest Mouse and The Pretenders, giving away famous guitars and being embraced by diverse audiences. This conversation is a thoughtful and revealing look at a true master craftsman passionate about all types of music.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 25min
QLS Classic: Darius Rucker
Singer-Songwriter Darius Rucker talks about Hootie & the Blowfish, going from playing frat parties with Dave Matthews to The Grand Ole Opry as a solo artist and the obstacles he faced along the way. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aug 21, 2024 • 1h
Questlove Supreme: Common & Pete Rock
Renowned rapper Common, who has recently rekindled his love for music, joins legendary producer Pete Rock, known for his iconic work in Hip-Hop. They delve into their new collaborative album, celebrating the soulful sound and intelligent lyricism it offers. Common reflects on how Hip-Hop's 50th anniversary reignited his passion for making music. Pete Rock shares insights on his beloved basement studio as a creative hub. Together, they discuss personal stories, the evolution of musical collaborations, and the excitement of future projects.
Aug 14, 2024 • 1h 31min
Questlove Supreme: The Foreign Exchange
Nicolay, a Dutch artist known for his work with The Foreign Exchange, joins musician Phonte to discuss their incredible journey. They celebrate the anniversaries of their debut album and OkayPlayer, recalling how they met in the early internet days. The duo shares insights on their unique production style, the evolution of hip-hop, and their cultural influences in music. They also dive into collaboration challenges of the past, the joy of mixing music, and their experiences transitioning from studio to stage, all while honoring their original artistic vision.
Aug 12, 2024 • 1h 36min
QLS Classic: Herb Alpert
Jazz musician, songwriter and co-founder of A&M records Herb Alpert talks about the art of the trumpet, writing hits with Sam Cooke, the secret to outselling The Beatles and how he really feels about getting sampled by Biggie. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 19min
Questlove Supreme: David Murray
In the last year, The Roots' Questlove and Ray Angry made an album with today's guest — Jazz legend David Murray. David is a veteran saxophonist and a longtime leader within the Free Jazz movement. In this episode, taped in-studio, David explains why freedom in music reflects freedom in life. He recalls highlights of a 55-plus-year journey with intersections with a who's who of Jazz, as well as Sly Stone and The Grateful Dead. David discusses the moods, attitudes, tours, and figures that have colored his career. He also discusses working with The Roots and collaborating with Quest and Ray for their Plumb material.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 31, 2024 • 49min
Questlove Supreme: Sananda Maitreya Part 2
In Part 2 of Questlove's one-on-one interview with Sananda Maitreya, the esteemed guest details his personal and professional transformation. The creator of this year's The Pegasus Project: Pegasus & The Swan highlights some songs from the album, including "Walk On" with Jellybean Johnson. The post-millennium rocker also speaks about making his home in Milan, Italy, an affinity for Jean-Michel Basquiat, and so much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 24, 2024 • 52min
Questlove Supreme: Sananda Maitreya Part 1
In a special one-on-one conversation with Questlove, Sananda Maitreya discusses his early days. This conversation includes praise for Stevie Wonder as well as crediting Rod Stewart for his trademark rasp. Sananda speaks about time in Harlem and his ambitions as a boxer. Sananda also talks about performing at the 1988 Grammy Awards, with Michael Jackson, Prince, and Smokey Robinson watching from the front row, revealing some extra detail about that set.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
