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
Nov 25, 2024 • 1h 23min
QLS Classic: Glynn Turman
Iconic actor Glynn Turman discusses his 60-year career spanning over 160 projects. Topics include his upbringing surrounded by influential artists, his experiences in the Harlem Cultural Festival, the concept of African American actors imitating white people, his near role as the original Han Solo, the influence of the film JD's Revenge on hip hop, and reflections on 'The Wire'.
Nov 18, 2024 • 1h 33min
QLS Classic: Michael Brauer
Grammy winning mix engineer Michael Brauer talks about the art of engineering, his studio secrets and what it was like working with artists such as Coldplay, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, Grace Jones and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov 13, 2024 • 55min
Questlove Supreme: RZA Part 1
RZA, the de facto leader of the Wu-Tang Clan, shares his insights on leadership, creativity, and the group's legacy. He reflects on the making of the groundbreaking track "Protect Ya Neck," detailing the collaborative process and challenges they faced. The conversation ventures into how age has influenced his artistic purpose and the evolution of hip-hop culture. RZA also discusses the impact of technology, his recent classical album, and the blend of personal expression with socio-economic themes in the music industry.
Nov 11, 2024 • 2h 11min
QLS Classic: Pete Rock
Producer, rapper and hip hop legend Pete Rock talks about his deep knowledge of music, recording and the art of sampling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov 6, 2024 • 1h 51min
Questlove Supreme: Kathleen Hanna
New York Times best-selling author, musician, and activist Kathleen Hanna discusses her new memoir, Rebel Girl: My Life as a Feminist Punk. In a special one-on-one with Questlove, Kathleen also details her passion for records, complicated views on fame and success, and the power of No. In their first extended chat, Questlove also shares the profound impact Hanna had on The Roots by way of the late Richard Nichols and explains how she helped influence Black Lily. This conversation is spirited as two like-minded souls connect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov 4, 2024 • 2h 7min
QLS Classic: Siedah Garrett
Award-winning singer songwriter Siedah Garrett talks about growing up in Compton, her lifelong relationship with Quincy Jones and what it was like on tour with Michael Jackson. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct 30, 2024 • 1h 31min
Questlove Supreme: Cindy Blackman Santana
Drummer Cindy Blackman Santana joins Questlove Supreme for a career retrospective. She recalls her Ohio childhood, moving to Connecticut, and early days in New York City. Cindy details learning under Jazz legends Tony Williams and Art Blakey and how she was part of an essential movement in the genre during the 1980s. After working with a who's who of Jazz and cementing her own legacy, Cindy details the conversation and audition that would make her a keystone figure within Lenny Kravitz's band. She also describes staying ageless while balancing music and marriage with past QLS guest Carlos Santana. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct 28, 2024 • 2h 17min
QLS Classic: Chris Schwartz
Team Supreme is joined by Co-founder of Ruffhouse Records, Chris Schwartz. From the streets of Philly, to signing household names like Cypress Hill, Kriss Kross, The Fugees and even giving Quest his first internship, Chris breaks down the highs and lows of running one of the most successful hip hop labels of the 90's.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct 23, 2024 • 1h 25min
Questlove Supreme: Jonathan Shecter Part 2
In Part 2 of this special QLS, Jonathan Shecter, aka Shecky Green, looks back at his later years at The Source. The magazine's co-founder and Editor-in-Chief recalls assembling a "mind squad" of legendary writers, editors, and photographers. He details his role in recognizing Nas' incredible talent and Illmatic as a 5-mic classic, as well as experiences with Biggie Smalls, Tupac, and KRS-One. Shecky Green also speaks candidly about his abrupt 1994 exit from the magazine he launched and how he remains in the music curation space today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct 16, 2024 • 1h 54min
Questlove Supreme: Jonathan Shecter Part 1
Jonathan Shecter, known as Shecky Green, is the founding Editor-in-Chief of The Source, a landmark figure in hip-hop journalism. He shares vivid memories of his Philadelphia childhood and his early dreams of rap. Shecky recounts the birth of The Source, evolving from a Harvard radio show to a defining voice in hip-hop culture. He highlights crucial moments in the magazine's history, including the impact of key album reviews and its role in shaping music journalism, alongside nostalgic reflections on Philadelphia's vibrant hip-hop scene.
