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 14, 2020 • 1h 35min
QLS Classic: Jazzy Jeff (Part 1)
DJ Jazzy Jeff, legendary hip hop DJ, discusses hip hop, DJ culture, and the challenges of traveling with heavy equipment. They also talk about their experiences on tour, the devastating Move Fire event, the early days of DJing, incidents of robbery, and the importance of DJ set length. Part 2 will feature more stories about DJ Jazzy Jeff's life and career.
Sep 9, 2020 • 2h 6min
Questlove Supreme: Robert Glasper
Genius pianist and producer Robert Glasper joins Questlove Supreme. They discuss his redefining of jazz with soul and hip hop, collaborating with Quest and Phonte, the music renaissance in Houston, breaking jazz rules, Brandy's studio vocals, gear preferences, and creating 'Jesus Children of America' for 'Black Radio' album.
Sep 7, 2020 • 1h 24min
QLS Classic: Al B. Sure (Part 2)
R&B singer Al B. Sure! reminisces about working with legends like David Bowie, Diana Ross, and Al Green. They discuss the production process, the influence of record industry politics, and the importance of equity stakes. They also talk about lost projects, collaborations, and the shift in the music industry towards producer-driven artists. They express concern for their grandson's well-being and discuss the possibility of playing Marvin Gaye in a movie. They reflect on their influence, trailblazing, and gratitude.
Aug 31, 2020 • 1h 24min
QLS Classic: Al B. Sure (Part 1)
Al B. Sure! discusses his upbringing, 90's music, and his relationship with Kim Porter. Also, the speaker talks about their experiences with Warner Brothers, remaking the song 'Night and Day' with Quincy, and touring with Bobby Brown and New Edition.
Aug 24, 2020 • 1h 23min
QLS Classic: Bootsy Collins (Part 2)
Bootsy Collins discusses his partnership with George Clinton, night-fishing in the Bermuda Triangle, becoming Bootzilla, legal issues surrounding the name 'Rubber Band,' reflecting on childhood incidents and uncertainty, collaborating with Bobby Wahlmack and Sly Stone, the importance of being a living legend, and the mess in the world.
Aug 19, 2020 • 1h 54min
Questlove Supreme: Sunny Hostin
Questlove tackles hot topics with The View's Sunny Hostin, discussing challenges of discussing uncomfortable topics in the public eye, personal experiences and perspectives, surviving subway bullies, alternative paths to success, the importance of journalism, the differential treatment of women of color in media, concerns for Kanye West's mental illness, dealing with stress-induced diverticulitis, boundaries of expression on 'The View', cancel culture and accountability, and expressing gratitude with a book recommendation.
Aug 17, 2020 • 1h 29min
QLS Classic: Bootsy Collins (Part 1)
In part 1 of 2, the legendary master of funk Bootsy Collins talks about finding his voice, the madness of working with James Brown and how a life-changing visit with Fela Kuti set him on a new path. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aug 12, 2020 • 1h 21min
Questlove Supreme: Larry Gold
Larry Gold, an iconic musical treasure of Philadelphia with a career spanning almost 50 years, discusses topics such as his work with iconic music movements, adding strings and arrangements to famous songs, his studio's connection with the Philly sound, and memories of working with salt and pepper at Studio Four. They also talk about the challenges of recording and doubling tracks, the differences between violin and viola, and the process of mixing records.
Aug 5, 2020 • 1h 31min
Questlove Supreme: Big Lez
Questlove Supreme welcomes Big Lez, an iconic figure in the music scene since the 90's and prominent TV host. They discuss Lez's impactful career in choreography and hosting. Lez shares their journey from a black girl in Queens to a gymnast. They also talk about navigating the competitive music industry, transitioning from journalism to rap and television, dancing on music shows, and the creative process of choreographing music videos.
Jul 27, 2020 • 1h 23min
QLS Classic: Greg Phillinganes (Part 2)
Musician Greg Phillinganes talks about his time with Michael Jackson, including his contributions to 'Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough'. They also discuss recreating a groove in the studio, the engineering of the Trump album, and the process of creating iconic opening stabs and chords. They share stories of touring with George Harrison and Eric Clapton, the tragic events of September 11th, and working with a female artist on a Prince cover.
