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 22, 2020 • 2h 5min
Questlove Supreme: Todd Rundgren
Todd Rundgren, an unsung creative maniac, talks about his influence on artists like Radiohead and Prince. He shares insights into his music creation process, collaborations, and engineering techniques. They discuss his early days with the NAS band, his evolution in the music industry, and his experiences in the jazz scene. They also explore analog vs digital recording, avoiding negative impact, and the unexpected success of one of his songs. Todd's album 'Arena' and his guitar skills are highlighted, along with his work in acapella and production. The episode concludes with gratitude and pandemic woes.
Jul 16, 2020 • 1h 1min
Broken Record - Beastie Boys and Spike Jonze
Rick Rubin, American record producer and former DJ for the Beastie Boys, joins the Broken Record team for a candid conversation with Mike D and Ad-Rock. They reminisce about inside jokes, hilarious memories, and their lives leading up to the release of Licensed to Ill. Topics include their early career, their experiences with music, embracing the role of the 'bad guys', crazy adventures to White Castle, studio visits, iconic music venues, and the influence of songs on their tracks.
Jul 15, 2020 • 1h 5min
Questlove Supreme: Spike Lee
Spike Lee returns to Questlove Supreme to talk about his film Da 5 Bloods, the connection to Marvin Gaye's What's Going On, life post-Oscar and Covid, mortality, his family legacy, and the critically acclaimed film Bamboozled.
18 snips
Jul 8, 2020 • 2h 25min
Questlove Supreme: Rick Rubin
He has coined himself the great "Reducer". However, his imprint on hip hop can not be reduced. Rick Rubin established one of the greatest record labels of all time, which we know as Def Jam and has been going ever since. His sound has been requested by the greats of our time. From the LL Cool J, Red Hot Chilli Peppers to Kanye West and the Dixie Chicks to Mick Jagger and more. Rick Rubin is the guru of sound. He is also one of Questlove Supreme's most awaited and anticipated interviews. Yes, class is back in session so take a seat! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 6, 2020 • 1h 8min
QLS Classic: Babyface (Part 2)
Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Babyface talks about his early life and the importance of translating heartbreak into music. He shares stories of working with artists like Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton. They discuss collaborations with Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, and Fallout Boy. They also explore the significance of songwriting and personal approach in music production, and how disappointment and ballads influenced their musical journey.
Jun 29, 2020 • 1h 48min
QLS Classic: Babyface (Part 1)
Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Babyface talks about his early life, translating heartbreaks into music, and working with artists like Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton.
Jun 22, 2020 • 2h 12min
QLS Classic: Patrice Rushen
Patrice Rushen, a composer, producer, and music director, discusses the decline of music education, the role of a music director in musical shows, the influence of Ricky Minor, lack of opportunities for women music directors, memories from 'Soul Train', the process of writing a song, challenges in their music career, and more.
Jun 17, 2020 • 1h 13min
Questlove Supreme: Jill Scott (Part 2)
Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Jill Scott discusses her collaboration with The Roots, her journey in the world of soul music, and her ventures in television and film. Topics include working with Jesse Jeff, developing a singing style, the emotional impact of performing sad songs, the Black Lily music showcase, reflections on acting, and casual banter and jokes.
Jun 10, 2020 • 1h 20min
Questlove Supreme: Jill Scott (Part 1)
Grammy award winning singer Jill Scott discusses her impactful journey as an artist, her upbringing in North Philadelphia, the challenges of collaboration in the music industry, and her decision on versions of a song.
May 25, 2020 • 1h 32min
QLS Classic: Lenny Kravitz (Part 2)
Lenny Kravitz discusses his albums, emotional performances, and the process of creating a song with Madonna. He reflects on facing double standards and criticism in his career and shares his experience of working with Michael Jackson. The chapter also explores casting opportunities, working with Lee Daniels and Julian Schnabel, and Forest Whitaker's method of character preparation. They discuss musical memories and favorite albums, and the chapter ends with sponsor ads from Bank of America, Pandora, and Coca-Cola.
