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 9, 2020 • 3h 1min
QLS Classic: Prodigy
Prodigy from Mobb Deep talks about his jazz roots, the Def Jam incident, and his new cookbook. The hosts discuss his childhood in Queensbridge, fights, beats, and his time in prison. They also touch on the cultural importance of 'Shook Ones' in hip hop and the dietary restrictions in the prison system.
Nov 4, 2020 • 1h 18min
Questlove Supreme: Joy Reid
Joy Reid, MSNBC/The Reid Out's Joy Reid, provides clarity on the political world and shares insights into her life. Topics include Lovecraft Country, the challenges of reporting during the election cycle, uncertainty surrounding the election results, black voter turnout in Georgia, lack of trust in institutions, the racist history of American presidents, perception and finesse, the influence of celebrities in politics, a comparison of two documentary series on cult leader Ranieri, and expressions of gratitude.
Nov 2, 2020 • 1h 54min
QLS Classic: Spike Lee (Part 2)
Spike Lee discusses his later films, funding for Malcolm X, and the parallel between athletes and musicians. The speakers also touch on Tyler Perry, autibiographical elements in 'Crooklyn', and the portrayal of marginalized groups in 'De la Quar'.
Oct 28, 2020 • 2h 7min
Questlove Supreme: Lin-Manuel Miranda
Award-winning playwright and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda joins Questlove Supreme to discuss his journey from Wesleyan University to creating the hit musicals In The Heights and Hamilton. They talk about the influence of Rent on musical theatre, the connection between hip hop and Broadway, and the process of adapting stage musicals to film. They also explore the importance of taking on projects to learn and avoiding regret. Additionally, they touch on the significance of expressing opinions and the pressure faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Oct 26, 2020 • 1h 44min
QLS Classic: Spike Lee (Part 1)
Guest Spike Lee, director, producer, writer, and actor, discusses growing up in Brooklyn, his first Super 8 camera, and why his films are more relevant today. They explore the history of 'Shibuya-roll-call' and its influence on movies like 'School Days' and 'Get On The Bus'. They also touch on Spike Lee's early days as a filmmaker, his unconventional funding methods, and his films 'She's Gotta Have It', 'New Jack City', and 'School Daze'.
Oct 21, 2020 • 1h 56min
Questlove Supreme: Brian Alexander Morgan
Brian Alexander Morgan, creator of iconic anthems like Weak, Rain, Right Here, and I'm So Into You, discusses his music career, working with artists like Drake, Faith Evans, and Usher. The podcast touches on his interactions with Beni Medina and Robert Brookins, the struggles in the music industry, working with attitude, the theory of unison and harmony, and his experiences with Usher and Diddy.
Oct 14, 2020 • 1h 28min
Questlove Supreme: Jurnee Smollett
Jurnee Smollett, purposeful and intense actress of our time, discusses her career, Lovecraft Country, hiring directors, negative experiences, artistic integrity, childhood influences, and a traumatic encounter with racial profiling while driving. They also touch on Thanksgiving traditions and carpentry skills.
Oct 7, 2020 • 1h 33min
Questlove Supreme: Bruce Hornsby
Bruce Hornsby, mega talented singer songwriter and pianist, talks about the impact of his hit song 'That's Just The Way It Is' and his relationships with The Grateful Dead and Spike Lee. They discuss his current music projects, lessons from playing with the Dead, his musical roots and childhood pranks, daily piano practice, Grammy wins, joining the Dead, and the longevity and impact of 'The Way It Is'.
Sep 30, 2020 • 1h 27min
Questlove Supreme: Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys talks about her beginnings, the music business, and her continuous evolution. They also discuss childhood memories, first concert experiences, collaborating on a song called 'Girlfriend', releasing albums, and reflecting on the impact of a Grammy nomination.
Sep 21, 2020 • 2h 28min
QLS Classic: Jazzy Jeff (Part 2)
Grammy-award winning DJ Jazzy Jeff joins Team Supreme (again!) to talk hip hop, DJ culture, and working with Will Smith. Reminiscing about the 80s at DAS, meeting Will and their chemistry as DJ and MC duo. They discuss next steps, parties, and Philly clubs. They also delve into their early days in hip hop, touring experiences, the iconic 'Funky Drummer' break, financial struggles, creating their album, controversy, relatability of a song, and inspiration behind 'Summertime'. Jazzy Jeff talks about his residency at Studio 4 and passion for production.
