The Questlove Show

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.

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.

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.

In this mini “musings” episode of Questlove Supreme, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Showtheme—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.

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.

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.

Questlove and fellow Philadelphia music icon Christian McBride drop in on Norah Jones at her home studio to record an episode of her new podcast. Together they relive hilarious shared high school memories, break down the musical influences that shaped them, and perform inspired covers of D’Angelo, Pops Staples, Kris Kristofferson, and more. (Recorded 5/10/2023/Original airdate 9/11/2023.) Check out Norah's podcast 'Norah Jones Is Play Along' here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/norah-jones-is-playing-along/id1645438817 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

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.

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.

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 first four albums. Years later, the two creatives reunite (and learn how alike they really are) to talk about Mike's career and latest album, Neighborhood Gods Unlimited. The discussion takes a turn, kind of morphing into Mike's podcast, and kind of evolving into an organic discussion on life, art, trauma, and a real-time friendship-building between two like minded creatives with a strong love of nostalgia, pop culture, and diversifying talent, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

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 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 today, making this conversation a perfect groove for music lovers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Michaels 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.