The Questlove Show

Black Music Month kicks off in a major way. Mickey Guyton joins Questlove for a deeply personal conversation about carving out space as a Black woman in Country music, from her church roots in Texas to performing on global stages like the Super Bowl and in China. She opens up about her religious upbringing, perfectionism, anxiety, creative burnout, and finding her true audience among marginalized fans who feel seen in her story. Along the way, Mickey and Quest geek out on Brandy, karaoke etiquette, gatekeeping in Country music, and what it really costs to pioneer a lane that didn't exist before.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

Hello, Questlove Listeners! We want to share a new show you might enjoy, it’s “Hey Jonas” with the Jonas Brothers!!! About the show: Hey Jonas! The official Jonas Brothers podcast. Hosted by Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas. It’s the Jonas Brothers you know... musicians, actors, and well, yes, brothers. Now, they’re sharing another side of themselves in the playful, intimate, and irreverent way only they can. Spend time with the Jonas Brothers here and stay a little bit longer for deep conversations like never before. Listen here and subscribe to Hey Jonas! on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2026

Christopher Cross joins Questlove in Hollywood for a deep musician-to-musician conversation about songwriting, studio craftsmanship, and surviving meteoric success. Cross reveals the true origin of Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do) and the outlaw mythology behind Ride Like The Wind, while recalling experiences like seeing Jimi Hendrix live, opening for Led Zeppelin, and singing background vocals with Carl Wilson. He breaks down the making of his classic debut album, his obsession with Steely Dan–level precision, and why his later records still matter deeply to him and his core fans. Along the way, Cross shares rare stories about Brian Wilson, Joni Mitchell, Michael McDonald, and Jimmy Page — plus an unforgettable Ginger Baker milk-and-ulcers story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2026

In a recent conversation with Padma Lakshmi, Questlove brought up the near-sacrilegious act of putting ketchup on a hot dog in Chicago. Chicago native Open Mike Eagle reacts — while admitting he may already be disqualified from the debate for entirely different reasons. The podcast affiliate (and recent guest) also speaks about the hometown food he gravitates towards, name-checking some purveyors.  The mini episode conversation with Mike and show producer Cousin Jake also veers into touring life, road food, and experiences traveling through Europe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2026

Angela Nissel joins Questlove for a deeply funny and moving conversation about growing up in Southwest Philly, breaking into television, and navigating grief after losing her mother—the subject of her new memoir, Good Grief, Pass The Bread, Mom Is Dead. The longtime friends revisit their wild early days together, from telemarketing gigs and busted cars to building Okayplayer and discovering the early internet, while unpacking people-pleasing, therapy, and late-in-life self-discovery. Angela opens up about caregiving, moving her mother to Los Angeles, surviving Hollywood burnout, and rediscovering who she is beyond work—all with the sharp wit that helped shape shows like Scrubs and The Boondocks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

In this Questlove Show mini-episode, Questlove revisits the making of Michael Jackson's HIStory with a previously unreleased encore segment from the Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis interview. Ahmir unpacks the track’s orchestral scale, Boyz II Men vocals, and marathon mix sessions with fellow producers, breaking down why “HIStory” feels like MJ’s “Night of the Living Baseheads” moment. From there, the conversation pivots to mailbag questions from podcast supporters about Jam & Lewis’ creative synergy, Prince deep cuts, and Questlove’s new Rolling Stone feature ranking 100 essential Prince songs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

On this mini episode of The Questlove Show, Open Mike Eagle and Cousin Jake react to the recent two-hour interview between Ahmir and Posdnuos. In a mutual celebration of the Native Tongues movement, they highlight moments from the conversation involving De La Soul’s Turtles lawsuit, newly revealed details about subliminal lyrics, and the emotional weight of songs like “I Am I Be” and “Trying People,” connecting them to themes of vulnerability and longevity in Hip-Hop. Make sure you've heard the original April episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2026

Raheem DeVaughn joins Questlove to trace his journey from a Washington DC Go-Go kid to internationally known “Love King,” radio host, and independent R&B force. He breaks down the spiritual meaning of love, the art of the perfect slow-jam mixtape, and how Go-Go culture shaped his sound and hustle (including his current band). Raheem also tells stories about his father touring with Stevie Wonder, remaking a full, soon to release Marvin Gaye album with Kenny Dope, and building his career from Black Lily open mics to a Jive Records deal and beyond. He also explains how he inherited The Quiet Storm radio show, why direct-to-consumer is changing the game, and what it really takes to survive as an indie artist in today’s music industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2026

Questlove welcomes bestselling author Brianna Wiest (The Mountain Is You, 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think) for a vulnerable, funny, and wide‑ranging conversation about self‑sabotage, creativity, and learning to “just show up.” Brianna explains how she writes from her center, why nature and long drives unlock her best ideas, and how she separates the heart’s “what” from the mind’s “how.” Questlove shares how her work helped him see himself (and his obstacles) differently. Along the way, Brianna opens up about her childhood, her taste in music, and even making wedding cakes. This episode is a warm, insightful exploration of growth, bravery, and redefining success in the second act of life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

Questlove reconnects with Open Mike Eagle, picking up a conversation that began on a 2025 episode of the show. As Mike reflects on his time with Project Blowed, the two artists-turned-podcast hosts dive into The Good Life Cafe and its influence on the West Coast Underground Hip-Hop scene, as well as touring on the left side of the country. This mini-episode is entertaining and insightful—and leaves plenty more of Mike’s story still to be told.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2026

Posdnuos of De La Soul sits down with Questlove for a long-awaited conversation fans have been asking for. Ahmir digs into the group's catalog with fan-driven questions, while Plug 1 shares stories from the studio, reveals which classic tracks were originally intended for other artists, and reflects on the legacy of his brother, Dave aka Trugoy the Dove. The discussion celebrates one of Hip-Hop's most influential groups—and their lasting impact on The Roots. With last year's Cabin In The Sky album still in constant rotation, this is an episode fans won't want to miss. Catch De La Soul at May's Roots Picnic in Philadelphia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2026

This segment from the Questlove Show was so powerful, we had to share it on its own. Georgia Anne Muldrow breaks down the deeply personal origins of her “Stay Woke” lyric from Erykah Badu’s “Master Teacher Medley" over 18 years ago, and reflects on how its meaning has evolved—and been distorted—over time. Questlove and special guest Open Mike Eagle share their reactions to her story. Please make sure you've heard the nearly two hour conversation between Georgia and Ahmir that published earlier this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2026

Georgia Anne Muldrow has been making incredible music for over 20 years. The Grammy-nominated artist is kaleidoscopic in genre and style, telling Questlove that she experiences music through synesthesia. In this expansive two-hour conversation, Georgia reflects on the Jazz legends who shaped her upbringing, the influence of voices like X-Clan and Assata Shakur in guiding her toward a path of liberation, and the joy of life itself. She also shares how a night in Brooklyn nearly 20 years ago ultimately led to her latest album, Electrical Field of Love, created alongside the band Harriet Tubman. The longest conversation Georgia and Quest have ever had unfolds into a beautiful, free-form exploration of life, music, and the true courage behind artistry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

After interviewing Flea in the studio, Questlove asked the Red Hot Chili Peppers co-founder about the 1980s Los Angeles Punk scene. In response for this mini episode taped moments after, Questlove reflects on the Philly Hip-Hop ecosystem of the 1990s—the power of a KRS-One lyric and the raw talent of his fellow Philly peers and Roots collaborators.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 April 2026

Flea joins Questlove in-studio to discuss his debut trumpet album Honora, the long road back to his first musical love, and the rituals that ground his creativity and daily life. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee unpacks the evolution of his artistry—from a Jazz-obsessed kid in upstate New York to a genre-curious fixture in the L.A. scene to a cornerstone of the Red Hot Chili Peppers—and how prayer, reading, stretching, and strict boundaries with technology shape his days. Flea also opens up about assembling the Honora band with Josh Johnson and Jeff Parker, his collaborations with Thom Yorke, his relationship with his wife Mel, and why intention and personal integrity matter more to him than chops or genre. This episode of the Questlove Show flows with deep musical nerdery and raw honesty about what it really takes to keep growing as an artist and a human being.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2026

This week, Raheem DeVaughn kicks off the Say Yes Tour alongside a reunited Floetry and Teedra Moses. His full Questlove Show episode is coming soon, but we’re sharing an exclusive segment as a mini-episode, where he talks about the tour and tells a great story involving Aretha Franklin. Raheem DeVaughn’s new release, The Quiet Storm Lover: Tome Un, is out now. Stay tuned for the full-length conversation, arriving in May.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 April 2026

Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis join The Questlove Show in-studio to discuss their upcoming April Las Vegas residency, along with key milestones from their extraordinary career. The legendary duo unpacks the dynamics of their decades-long creative partnership, both in and out of the studio. They revisit sessions with Janet Jackson, Usher, Mary J. Blige, The Isley Brothers, and Barry White, offering insight into the moments behind some of their most iconic work. Along the way, Jam and Lewis reveal which hip-hop star they once crafted a batch of tracks for, the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominee they championed, and their perspective on current events in the Twin Cities. A bucket-list conversation for Questlove, the episode is driven by deep mutual respect, admiration, and the kind of chemistry that only comes with true musical brotherhood.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 March 2026

On this mini-episode of The Questlove Show, Questlove dives into the rules (and risks) of “TV monogamy,” from a breakup sparked by secret binge-watching to how episode “hall passes” can save relationships. Questlove also talks about TV as constant background “aquarium,” his accidental reality TV rabbit hole, and why one cult classic TV show (that only lasted a single season) quietly reshaped The Roots’ jam-band approach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2026

In this mini episode of The Questlove Show, Questlove talks with producer "Cousin Jake" in a salute to Sinners, and revisits his early-season conversation with (now Oscar-winning) cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw, exploring how 70mm projection, sound, lighting, and film stock shape his emotional connection to movies. He breaks down his knack for spotting award-worthy performances and explains why he’s now deeply invested in everyone involved with Sinners. The mini closes with a detour into the Blues genre, D'Angelo, and B.B. King’s Live at Cook County Jail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2026

Join Questlove as he sits down with friend Padma Lakshmi for a funny, sharp, and intimate conversation on food, culture, and reinvention. Padma revisits her New York City childhood, makes the case for Queens as the city’s true food capital, and shares her ultimate snack kryptonites. She also opens up about stepping away from a show she helped build into a powerhouse to launch America’s Culinary Cup from the ground up—and why she’s fully in her “zero effs” era.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2026

Jamie Lee Curtis sits down with Questlove for an intimate, funny, and deeply motivating conversation about unlocking your greatness. With her signature candor, Jamie reflects on learning to stop shrinking herself and fully embrace her power—and how a recent connection with Quest helped her see that vision more clearly. In this wide-ranging chat, Jamie shares how she likes to be coached, the surprising lessons she’s learned from her dog, and why she refuses to dwell on the comments. As she prepares for her latest endeavor, Scarpetta, Jamie also opens up about the creative freedom behind projects like Everything Everywhere All at Once, True Lies, A Fish Called Wanda, and The Bear—and what those experiences taught her about trusting the process and owning your voice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2026

In this mailbag mini-episode, Questlove answers listener questions on James Brown’s polarizing late-period track “Deep in It” and why he loves the so-called “mustache era” of JB. Quest' gives practical advice to an aspiring collaborator in Spain, talking busking, community-building, and creative ways to find like-minded musicians offline. He weighs in on the rise of listening bars and vinyl-centric spaces. Finally, he goes deep on his favorite snare drums, and discusses some of the kits from his own historic drum collection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 15 March 2026

The QLS family lost a great friend, supporter, and one of music's greatest ears in the passing of Bob Power. In a small mini episode, Questlove reflects on Bob, who appeared on the second episode of Questlove Supreme back in 2016. He credits as one of hip hop’s greatest advocates and a defining force in boom-bap. He recalls how Bob’s work with De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest helped inspire and shape the sound of The Roots, comparing Bob’s role to George Martin’s with The Beatles. Questlove shares stories about Bob’s meticulous studio approach—mixing quietly and balancing clarity with gritty texture. Quest' also touches on recent collaboration with Bob, a funny phone call in the past, and more. The Bob Power episode of Questlove Supreme has been posted atop the feed. Bob Power forever. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2026

Baz Luhrmann joins Questlove to trace his journey from a rural Australian kid running a roadside radio station to the visionary behind Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge!, and The Great Gatsby. He breaks down his signature style of fusing modern music with classic stories, the chaos and cultural impact of Romeo + Juliet, and collaborations with artists like Radiohead, Elton John, David Bowie, JAY-Z, and Missy Elliott. Baz also discusses the new concert film EPIC (Elvis Presley In Concert), built from newly uncovered rehearsal and performance footage from a pivotal moment in Elvis Presley’s career. Along the way, he reflects on his approach to building immersive creative worlds—and why Elvis’s life and music now sit at the center of two of his most ambitious projects.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2026

Questlove answers Questlove Show listener letters in a candid mini-episode that spans grief, legacy, and the weight of influence. Responding to a fan whose “musical Mount Rushmore” includes several late legends in Ahmir's orbit, he reflects on losing collaborators. Quest also revisits the rise and evolution of Okayplayer, teases liner notes and treats for the next Roots projects, and addresses the fate of his lockdown DJ sets and whether they might return online. Please send your questions by the contact us page on QuestloveSupreme.com or DM'ing the show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2026

This Questlove Show mini “mailbag” episode features Ahmir responding to listener questions about underappreciated (and groundbreaking) Philly Hip-Hop group The Goats, his creative process and wild story behind crafting the music-driven opening montage for the SNL 50 documentary, and a deep-dive on The Jacksons’ This Place Hotel (Heartbreak Hotel), including why he sees Michael Jackson as an early influence on Gangsta Rap themes, and reveals he made his own private mix of The Jacksons' Triumph. You can submit questions by direct messaging on IG and Facebook, or through the contact-us portal at QuestloveSupreme.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2026

Electric bass visionary MonoNeon joins Questlove to trace his journey from Memphis church kid and second-generation musician to Prince’s last-hired bassist and a viral internet force. He breaks down his flipped right-handed bass technique, neon-soaked persona, and Dada-inspired art mindset, plus the albums that shaped him. MonoNeon and Quest' dig into his speech-to-music videos, collaborations with George Clinton and Mac Miller, the lessons he took from Paisley Park, and how embracing “mistakes” and self-doubt became the engine of his ultimate goal: total musical freedom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2026

On this episode of The Questlove Show, Questlove sits down with Colin Kaepernick live on stage at Web Summit in Qatar for a focused (but abbreviated) conversation about discipline, courage, and purpose. Kaepernick walks through his morning training routine, reflects on his childhood and early athletic ambitions, and examines the influences that shaped his evolution into activism. He speaks about the ongoing work of Know Your Rights Camp, including its response to recent events, and shares how his Lumi platform is designed to expand student engagement, literacy, and AI fluency. The conversation captures where his journey stands a decade after he stepped fully into public activism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2026

In a bonus clip from James Alexander’s two-part conversation, he recalls witnessing The O'Jays and The Temptations go toe-to-toe musically on stage in Cleveland in December 1967. That showdown—shared amid Alexander’s reflections on Otis Redding’s final days—led into a previously unreleased account of how his band, The Bar-Kays, developed a rivalry with Larry Blackmon's Cameo—a situation rooted in showmanship and cash. Steel sharpens steel...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2026

James Alexander returns to The Questlove Show for a revealing deep dive into the rebirth and evolution of The Bar-Kays after tragedy, sharing how he rebuilt the group with vocalist Larry Dodson and crafted a louder, more aggressive funk-rock sound that pushed them into a new era. He reflects on becoming a go-to rhythm section for Stax Records and beyond, playing on classics for Rufus Thomas, The Staple Singers, and others, and revisits the making and lasting impact of “Holy Ghost,” their showstopping performance at Wattstax, the wild realities of 1970s touring and stagecraft, and the band’s constant reinvention through the 1980s. The Bar-Kays remain active today, and Alexander’s spirited storytelling makes clear why their legacy endures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2026

As Valentine’s weekend arrives, Questlove follows his love-inspired soundtrack with a different kind of selection, one pulled from the side of the crate reserved for heartbreak. He suggests ten songs that sit with loss, loneliness, and love that’s run its course, spanning Jazz and Soul laments from Donald Byrd and Les McCann to more modern reflections by Mayer Hawthorne and Cleo Sol. Along the way, he shares the stories, anecdotes, and personal reflections that make these records ideal companions for a good cry — and, maybe, a little clarity. If this year finds you on the hurting or healing end of love, consider this episode your solace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2026

In preparation for Valentine’s Day, Questlove digs into his collection to curate ten song suggesions that set the mood for love. From timeless classics by Minnie Riperton and Donny Hathaway to deeper cuts and modern selections from Cody Chesnutt and Meshell Ndegeocello, he shares the records that define romance in all its forms. If you’re in a season of love, consider this your soundtrack. And stay tuned for a second edition—songs for those on the other end of the spectrum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2026

Bar-Kays legend James Alexander joins the Questlove Show for a deeply personal conversation, tracing his journey from a teenage musician playing segregated clubs in Memphis to becoming a cornerstone of Stax Records and a young artist mentored by Otis Redding. James reflects on the spontaneous birth and enduring impact of “Soul Finger,” the hard truths of touring in the 1960s, and the business wisdom Otis shared with him about publishing and ownership. He also speaks with profound honesty about the 1967 plane crash that claimed Redding and most of the Bar-Kays—a tragedy he narrowly escaped—and the long, painful process of grieving, resilience, and ultimately rebuilding the band in its wake.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2026

In this mini “musings” episode of the Questlove Show, Questlove answers listener questions and opens up about his love of certain breakfast cereals, his current morning gratitude and breathing rituals, and his ongoing work to become a more succinct communicator. He reflects on waking up to the music of his late friend J Dilla, the work of painter Ernie Barnes, and balancing creative projects including a new song and an Earth, Wind & Fire film. Quest also shares his ideal getaways—from omakase in Japan to luxury train travel—and invites fans to keep sending questions through the QLS channels.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2026

Mannie Fresh joins Questlove to trace his journey from a DJ’s son in New Orleans to one of Hip-Hop’s most influential producers. He reflects on the birth of Bounce music, the creation of Cash Money classics like “Ha,” “Back That Azz Up,” “Bling Bling,” and “Still Fly,” working with Teena Marie, and his hopes for a unified Cash Money and No Limit moment. As Black History Month kicks off, this is Southern Hip-Hop history told straight from one of its chief architects—explaining how a rich tradition of Black music informed his inventive, era-defining style.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2026

On the latest “minisode” of The Questlove Show, Ahmir answers questions from the audience—ranging from his top five TV theme songs (pulled largely from 1970s and ’80s television, with plenty of context and backstory) to reflections on some of the show’s most challenging interviews. He talks about why asking personal questions matters, especially when guests struggle to elaborate, and how those moments can still unlock something human. Quest also shares anecdotes about the technical challenges of syncing music to film, his love of off-beat rhythms, and the lasting influence of J Dilla.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 February 2026

Questlove sits down with Sonic Youth co-founder and avant-garde icon Kim Gordon for a candid, funny, and surprisingly vulnerable conversation about imposter syndrome, the Downtown/No Wave era, and how a visual artist became a profoundly influential bassist, singer, and producer. Kim talks about embracing spontaneity in the studio, discovering dissonance alongside Public Enemy at Greene Street Studios, accidentally launching her solo career with producer Justin Raisen, and navigating motherhood. She also reflects on recently updating her memoir and her role in the film Chronology of Water. One of music’s enduring arbiters of cool joins The Questlove Show—take heed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2026

In this mini episode, Questlove opens the floor to listener (and viewer) questions—digging into James Brown’s recording techniques, his current favorite stand-up comedians, and much more. From there, the conversation drifts into the emotional power of music, spotlighting Afro-futurist and meditative sounds that soothe, ground, and inspire. Listeners also get exclusive updates on what’s brewing next, including the progress of the highly anticipated Roots album and new developments on the Earth, Wind & Fire documentary. And, because it wouldn’t be Questlove without it, there’s a behind-the-scenes look at his one-of-a-kind birthday ritual: an all-day movie marathon with great snacks to match. Remember, submit your questions via QuestloveSupreme.com, or by following on social and messaging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 January 2026

In a word, this episode is significant—and you'll hear why. A$AP Rocky joins Questlove for a wide-ranging conversation about his upbringing and his ongoing effort to protect moments of normalcy amid fame and fortune. He breaks down the creative vision behind DON’T BE DUMB, including the autobiographical personas he developed with filmmaker Tim Burton. Rocky also reflects on the influence of classic Hip-Hop, why film serves as his vision board, and how Mos Def officially certified the name Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye 2. Toast along, as Rocky and Ahmir connect over life, music, and the art of staying true.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2026

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 privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2026

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.

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2026

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 series offers a revealing look at Samara’s artistry and perspective, and a reminder of music’s power to change lives. Samara is also nominated in two categories this month for her album Portrait.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2026

This special session features not one but two incredible and incomparable musicians - Questlove and Christian McBride.

Transcribed - Published: 4 January 2026

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 Questlove Show conversation to close out 2025—and yes, there will be a Part 2 coming soon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2025

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2025

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.

Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2025

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-time building of a genuine friendship between two like-minded creatives bonded by nostalgia, pop culture, and a commitment to diversifying talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 December 2025

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.

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2025

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 to an album—he also opens up about balancing family life with a demanding career. Along the way, Ronson and Questlove compare notes on the evolving rules of DJ’ing, making this conversation a perfect groove for music lovers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2025

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. She speaks about her pivots and transformation into an introspective songwriter, how the Black Keys helped her channel a new groove, and her joyful performance on Cover Girl.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2025