The Questlove Show - podcast cover

The Questlove Show

iHeartPodcastswww.iheart.com

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.

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Episodes

Questlove Reaches Into The Mail Bag & Answers - January 16

In this special mini episode, Questlove answers questions pulled from the QLS DMs, Facebook inbox, and comments across YouTube and other DSPs. Along the way, he shares the origin story of The Questlove Show theme—touching on J Dilla, D’Angelo, James Poyser, and Questo. He also revisits The Roots’ Game Theory , offering lesser-known history behind the 2006 album. Questlove also responds to a Jazz collaboration suggestion that hits close to home, and more. Enjoy. See omnystudio.com/listener for pr...

Jan 16, 202616 min

Samara Joy Part 2

In Part 2 of her conversation with Questlove, Samara Joy unpacks why Carmen McRae is such a powerful influence on her singing. The Bronx native talks about recording at Rudy Van Gelder’s famed studio, and why those hallowed jazz halls are a perfect match for her voice. Joy also opens up about her musical family, the months she spent adding lyrics to compositions by Charles Mingus and Sun Ra for her latest Grammy-nominated album, and much more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Jan 14, 202640 minSeason 6Ep. 22

QLS Classic: The Revolution

Recorded from Minneapolis: A special visit with Prince's band, The Revolution, where they talk about Prince's early days, his life and the truth behind the legend. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 12, 20262 hr 49 min

Samara Joy Part 1

In this episode of the Questlove Show , Questlove sits down with rising jazz star and Grammy winner Samara Joy for an intimate, wide-ranging conversation. Samara looks back on her musical roots and the thrill of her first Grammy win, opening up about the influences, challenges, and defining moments that have shaped her path. The two dig into family, creative risk, mentorship, and self-belief, with plenty of warmth, humor, and rapid-fire moments along the way. Part one of this special two-part se...

Jan 07, 202639 minSeason 6Ep. 21

QLS Classic: Glynn Turman

In this 2020 episode of Questlove Supreme we sat down with a man who has been woven into the fabric of all of our lives at any point of his 60-year-career and we try to cover it all! From Peyton Place to Cooleyhigh, A Different World, Fargo to Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and about 160 projects in between, the iconic Glynn Turman opens up to Team Supreme. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 05, 20261 hr 23 min

Questlove and Christian McBride on ‘Norah Jones Is Playing Along’

Questlove and fellow Philadelphia music icon Christian McBride drop in on Norah Jones at her home studio to record an episode of her new podcast. Together they relive hilarious shared high school memories, break down the musical influences that shaped them, and perform inspired covers of D’Angelo, Pops Staples, Kris Kristofferson, and more. (Recorded 5/10/2023/Original airdate 9/11/2023.) Check out Norah's podcast 'Norah Jones Is Play Along' here : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/norah-jon...

Jan 04, 20262 hr 6 min

Arthur Baker

Arthur Baker, a pioneer of Dance, Electro, and Hip-Hop, sits down in studio with Questlove for an episode years in the making. The conversation traces key milestones from Arthur’s new memoir, Looking for the Perfect Beat: Remixing and Reshaping Hip-Hop, Rock and Rhythms, as he details his role in “Planet Rock,” the early days of New Edition, and his evolution from a music-obsessed DJ in Boston to one of the most groundbreaking producers and remixers in 1980s New York City. It’s the perfect Quest...

Dec 31, 20251 hr 36 minSeason 6Ep. 20

Happy New Year From The Questlove Show

In this mini episode, Questlove discusses the song that captures his 2025—and it was released this year. He also talks about how he's spending the new year, including shows with The Roots. This brief check-in also updates the public on the status of the long-awaited album from the band, which... just listen. Happy new year from the team at the Questlove Show. P.S.: Don't forget to send questions to our DM or through our contact forms at QuestloveSupreme.com for answers on upcoming mini episodes....

Dec 31, 20259 min

QLS Classic: Boyz II Men Part 2

The 2020 Questlove Supreme conversation with Boyz II Men was too big and too potent for one part. Here is Part 2 with Shawn, Nate, and Wanyá. This discussion gets the real behind the plaques and success, including the Boyz talking about their foray into the world of wine, how they stay connected through the years, and those memories of Philly. Enjoy this evergreen QLS Classic. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informa...

Dec 29, 20251 hr 21 minSeason 2Ep. 1

QLS Mini: Revisiting The Open Mike Eagle Episode

The Questlove Show is providing mini episodes that offer bonus content, special features, and answers to questions from our podcast audience. On this mini, Questlove revisits the most recent episode with guest Open Mike Eagle. Ahmir speaks about doing the What Had Happened Was pod with Mike years ago, the significance of a glowing album review, and more. Make sure you catch the full episode to appreciate this bonus note. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Dec 27, 202511 minSeason 6Ep. 19

Open Mike Eagle

During the pandemic, Questlove joined Open Mike Eagle for a season of his What Had Happened Was podcast to discuss The Roots’ earliest days and their first four albums. Years later, the two creatives reunite—and discover just how much they have in common—to talk about Mike’s career and latest album, Neighborhood Gods Unlimited. The conversation gradually takes a turn, morphing into something that feels part What Had Happened Was, part free-flowing exchange about life, art, trauma, and the real-t...

Dec 24, 20251 hr 21 minSeason 6Ep. 19

QLS Bonus: Questlove's Favorite Christmas Songs

In this bonus mini episode of The Questlove Show, Ahmir takes listeners through over a dozen of his favorite Christmas songs. From personal holiday memories to beloved classics from legendary artists and music innovators—plus a few modern favorites—it’s a festive deep dive into seasonal sounds. Happy holidays from Ahmir and the team at The Questlove Show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 23, 202516 min

QLS Classic: Boyz II Men Part 1

This Questlove Supreme Classic is a peak pandemic discussion. To recap: Here is what you know about Boyz II Men, they are the record breaking, multiple award winning, best singing group of our time. In this episode we dive into the unknown through the reunion of old high school friends Questlove and Boyz II Men. Listen as Quest and Team Supreme dive into the REAL (uncensored) story behind one of the most successful and consistent groups of all time. You get the first person accounts of what real...

Dec 22, 20251 hr 32 minSeason 1Ep. 50

Mark Ronson

Nine-time Grammy-winning producer and DJ Mark Ronson sits down with Questlove to discuss the many elements of his life and love of music, particularly as they intersect with the era explored in his New York Times best-selling book, Night People. Ronson reflects on a formative period in New York City nightlife, his awkward beginnings as a club DJ, and the experiences that sparked his passion for Hip-Hop and playing music for others. Drawing from the book—originally conceived as a companion piece ...

Dec 17, 20251 hr 1 minSeason 6Ep. 18

QLS Classic: Snoop Dogg

The legendary Snoop Dogg joins Team Supreme to talk Doggystyle, producing with Dr. Dre, and how he became the ultimate entrepreneur. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 15, 20251 hr 50 min

Lady Wray

Pivots define Lady Wray's career. As Nicole Wray, the Virginia native struck gold with the hit "Make It Hot" in the late 1990s alongside Missy Elliott and Timbaland. In the 2000s, she patiently waited her turn with the Roc-A-Fella family, only to witness the death of a dynasty. However, in the last decade, Lady Wray has found a new runway and is making the best music of her career alongside Leon Michels and the Big Crown family. In a conversation with Questlove, Lady Wray revisits her journey. S...

Dec 10, 202556 minSeason 6Ep. 17

QLS Classic: Jermaine Dupri

Hip hop icon and R&B hitmaker, Jermaine Dupri, tells 30 years of industry tales from Fresh Fest days to career-reviving remixes. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 08, 20251 hr 43 min

Malcolm Gladwell

In this special, live-recorded conversation, Questlove sits down with bestselling author and podcast host Malcolm Gladwell at the iHeart Cafe in Cannes, France. The two old friends embark on a wide-ranging, insightful, and humorous discussion that covers everything from Malcolm’s childhood musical experiences, his theory of creativity and genius, and failing as a pathway to success. Through stories of growing up in a multicultural household, creative serendipity, and collaborative critique, Malc...

Dec 03, 20251 hr 11 minSeason 6Ep. 16

QLS Classic: Sheila E.

The legendary Queen of Percussion Sheila E. talks about the secrets of her craft, sneaking her brother into Marvin Gaye's band, having Michael Jackson on speed dial and lessons learned from working with Prince. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 01, 20252 hr 22 min

Chelsea Handler

Comedian, author, and fellow podcast host Chelsea Handler joins Questlove for a candid, laugh-filled conversation about her unconventional daily routines, family stories, her love of travel, and the art of living in the moment. Chelsea opens up about finding humor in chaos, navigating relationships, embracing failure, and the importance of taking extended vacations. She shares wisdom, wit, and unforgettable personal anecdotes throughout the episode. Don’t miss this inspiring episode packed with ...

Nov 26, 202554 minSeason 6Ep. 15

QLS Classic: Gabrielle Union

Some might say she’s just an actress but Gabrielle Union has really managed to do it all. She gets real with Team Supreme about Being Mary Jane and a sexual assault activist, the star of Bring It On and a new author—not to mention a new mom! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 24, 20251 hr 49 min

Autumn Durald Arkapaw

The Questlove Show sits down with acclaimed cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw for an in-depth conversation on filmmaking, visual storytelling, and creative purpose. Autumn traces her path from photography to shaping films like Sinners, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and The Last Showgirl, while reflecting on how family, heritage, and collaborations with Ryan Coogler and Spike Jonze have influenced her style. She breaks down the importance of trust on set, building meaningful partnerships, a...

Nov 19, 202556 minSeason 6Ep. 14

QLS Classic: Steve Miller

Hall of Fame guitarist, singer and songwriter Steve Miller joins Questlove Supreme to talk about the early lessons he learned from Les Paul and T Bone Walker, sitting in on an impromptu recording session with The Beatles and performing with greats like Chuck Berry, Sly Stone, and more. This episode first ran in January of 2018. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 17, 20252 hr 40 min

Cameron Crowe

The Questlove Show kicks off with Academy Award–winning filmmaker and legendary music journalist Cameron Crowe in a captivating conversation that spans decades of music, movies, and cultural change in celebration of his new memoir, The Uncool . Crowe reflects on his early Rolling Stone interviews, his transition to Hollywood with classics such as Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Say Anything , and what it takes to tell an artist’s story both in print and on screen. Hear behind-the-scenes stories...

Nov 12, 20251 hr 5 minSeason 6Ep. 13

Introducing: The Questlove Show

Coming November 12, 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, literat...

Nov 11, 20254 min

QLS Classic: Bobby Brown

From his early days with New Edition to recording countless hits as a soloist, Bobby Brown talks about life as a musical legend. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 10, 20251 hr 34 min

QLS Classic: Allee Willis

In this QLS Classic, "That-one-song" writer, Allee Willis talks shop from her days as a songwriter for Earth, Wind & Fire and The Rembrandts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 03, 20251 hr 52 min

QLS Classic: Jimmy Fallon

In this Classic Questlove Supreme episode from late 2019, Jimmy Fallon talks with Questlove about the joy of sleep, being raised on Doo-Wop music, making mixtapes, their favorite musical performances from Late Night With Jimmy Fallon and The Tonight Show, plus some once-in-a-lifetime encounters with Prince and Stevie Wonder. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 27, 20251 hr 4 min

QLS Classic: Tessa Thompson

Star of Sorry to Bother You and Creed holds court about falling into acting, social activism, potato salad, Philly cheesesteaks and goat love. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 20, 20251 hr 12 min

QLS Classic: Jason Flom

Music industry exec and activist Jason Flom talks about the couplet that got him fired from Atlantic, signing monster acts like Twisted Sister, Kid Rock and Lorde (to name a few) and everything you need to know if you ever come up against the United States justice system. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Oct 13, 20251 hr 48 min
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