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
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.
Jul 17, 2024 • 1h 21min
Questlove Supreme: George Faison
George Faison, a versatile artist in Black dance, discusses his journey from Broadway to working with legends like Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder. He shares insights on navigating a segregated society, challenges of being a Black dancer, and the impact of his trip to Africa on his work.
Jul 15, 2024 • 1h 26min
QLS Classic: Christian McBride
American jazz virtuoso and bassist Christian McBride talks about playing with Miles Davis as a high schooler, the "ins and outs" of his craft and how he got himself all tangled up in James Brown's world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 10, 2024 • 1h 41min
Questlove Supreme: BeBe Winans
Gospel/R&B giant BeBe Winans joins QLS to talk about his 40-plus-year career in music, film, and theater. BeBe details coming from one of the greatest and most voluminous musical families, and breaking off to build a duo with his sister CeCe Winans. The singer-songwriter also describes his friendships with Whitney Houston, Oprah Winfrey, Denzel Washington, and Jim Bakker and Tami Faye Bakker. This conversation has some memorable stories, powerful wisdom, and much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 8, 2024 • 2h 15min
QLS Classic: Stephanie Ruhle
No stone goes unturned in this classic episode; Stephanie Ruhle, MSNBC News Anchor, talks about her transition from Wall Street to News Anchor, and shares her views on complicated issues from the 2011 financial crisis, to free speech and the Me Too movement. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 3, 2024 • 54min
Questlove Supreme: George Benson
George Benson examines his transition from a top Jazz guitarist into a highly respected vocalist. He shares the origin stories behind several 1970s hits like "Breezin" and "On Broadway" plus recalls working with Stevie Wonder, Bobby Womack, and Al Jarreau. George also discusses his newest release, a lost album with arranger Robert Farnon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 1, 2024 • 1h 39min
Black Music Month QLS Classic: The Emotions
Grammy award winning vocal group The Emotions discuss their early musical start, hip hop reviving their career, and the deep influence of their family. They reminisce about childhood memories and community activities, their love for Mavis Staples, working with various musicians, the resurgence of their songs in hip hop, and their unique family harmony. They also explore the emotional impact of their songs, discuss influential producers, and reminisce about their experiences as backup singers for Luther and Anita Baker.
Jun 30, 2024 • 1h 54min
Black Music Month QLS Classic: Kenny Gamble
Kenny Gamble, a living legend and one of the greatest composers, producers, and music businessmen, joins the show. The hosts discuss the significance of record labels, the process of rebuilding a neighborhood, finding the right partner, and the evolution of arrangers. They also debate the vocal talents of Eddie Laverte, Teddy Pendergrass, and Walter Williams, and explore working with the Jacksons. Additionally, they discuss the rise of Teddy Pendergrass, the formation of Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, and working with Patty LaBelle. The chapter concludes with a nostalgic discussion and reminiscing about a popular rap track from Philadelphia.
Jun 29, 2024 • 1h 30min
Black Music Month QLS Classic: Jimmy Jam Part 3
Jimmy Jam shares insider secrets about working with Janet and Michael Jackson, including their sibling relationship. They discuss the impact of albums like 'Revenation' and 'Rhythm Nation'. The hosts reflect on creating songs that connect with listeners and talk about the power of music in evoking memories. They also mention the possibility of a movie about the Original Seven and discuss their experiences creating hit songs and collaborating with artists.
