The Questlove Show

While there is no new episode this week, Questlove Supreme is at work on some new shows, conversations, and special content to come. Stay tuned.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Look back at part 2 of Questlove Supreme's 2022 interview with Millie Jackson and Keisha Jackson. This mother and daughter powerhouse spoke about their relationship and careers while sitting with Team Supreme at an Atlanta studio. Keisha discussed her solo catalog, performing with OutKast, recording with Da Brat, and her ongoing Yacht Rock Revue project. Meanwhile, Millie explained tapping into her Country side, on her own terms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nimene learns about Josh Gibson, the greatest power hitter baseball has ever seen and Broadway star Fergie L. Philippe breaks it down in a brand new hip-hop track. Featuring an interview between Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and a 10 year old baseball enthusiast named Payton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this special look-back series, Questlove Supreme examines guests' first music memories. Questlove shares another memory from his life and drops some anecdote. The second set includes memorable reflections from DJ Premier, Sananda Maitreya, Steve Ferrone, Adam Levine, Tevin Campbell, Brittany Howard—and more. As we celebrate these early impressions, please consider writing a review or drop us a line on socials, and let QLS know your own first musical memory.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questlove Supreme celebrates Black History year round. Travel back to 2022, when singer Millie Jackson was joined by her daughter and fellow songstress Keisha Jackson for an Atlanta taping of QLS. In Part One, Millie Jackson spoke about writing and producing provocative and popular songs that were decades ahead of their time. Millie recalled checking Aretha Franklin, performing her Grammy-nominated hit, and making a profound song that confused and upset Gospel audiences. She sang too. Just like Millie Jackson, this QLS is bold, raw, and honest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the years, many of the Questlove Supreme interviews begin by asking, "What was your first musical memory?" In a special episode, looking back at memorable answers, Questlove offers his own and explains his curiosity. Part 1 of this series includes looking back at answers from Larry Blackmon of Cameo, Dave Matthews, Maya Rudolph, Macy Gray, Organized Noize, Blondie, Bonnie Raitt—and many others. While we're at it, write a review or drop us a line on socials, and let QLS know your first musical memory.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalist, author and host of MSNBC’s All In, discusses the heated political climate and finding a way to flourish. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cooking show stars Jazz, Jake, Jurnee and Jussie Smollett talk about growing up nomads, how they work through sibling rivalry and their cookbook, The Family Table. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actress, producer and activist Rosario Dawson talks about getting discovered for the film Kids on the streets of Brooklyn, the costs of being outspoken and working with artists like Spike Lee, Prince, Outkast and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this incredible 1-on-1 interview between Questlove and Erick Sermon, Ahmir asks for definitive answers about the EPMD breakup. Erick also speaks about a grocery list of hits, album cuts, and remixes from the 1990s and 2000s. This conversation intersects with stories about LL Cool J, Redman, Keith Murray, Too Short, and others. Happy 2025 from QLS.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marley Marl shares some of his studio secrets and talks about how he earned his spot as a legend in the early NYC scene. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erick Sermon and Questlove spoke for more than three hours in the closing days of 2024. In Part 1 of this QLS season finale, E-Double recalls the early days of EPMD, breaks down how Long Island fueled a rivalry with Eric B. & Rakim, and discusses where the melodic Funk in his music comes from. This conversation touches on classic songs by Erick and his group, Redman, Stezo, and so much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Latin Quarter staple, hip hop icon and founding member of 3rd Bass, MC Serch, shares stories from back in the day, including how he got his Mom into the rap game and how his beef with MC Hammer almost got him killed. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James "JT" Taylor joins Questlove and Suga Steve to revisit his upbringing and two decades with Kool & The Gang. JT details arriving with the legendary Funk-Jazz band to help them reach new plateaus with hit songs including "Celebration," "Ladies Night," "Joanna," and more. This conversation also touches on JT's solo career at MCA Records, his ventures in film, and his recent Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction. This one is smooth and soulful—just like JT Taylor's incredible voice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Music industry exec, A&R rep and producer Dante Ross talks about what it was like working with Brand Nubian, De La Soul, Macklemore and others. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nimene creates a stirring hip-hop track about the civil rights activist Claudette Colvin, who, as a teenager, refused to give up her seat on an Alabama city bus months before Rosa Parks’ famous protest. Featuring an interview between New York Times bestselling author Roxane Gay and a 6 year old named Stella.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam Horovitz of the Beastie Boys joins Questlove Supreme to discuss his incredible journey. This conversation includes AdRock looking back to the early days of the Beasties and how the Punk band made an authentic and passion-fueled segue into Hip Hop. AdRock also speaks about his distinct voice, a lifelong passion for crate-digging, and how his career has allowed him to experiment with creativity now. This two-hour discussion has been years in the making, and it's worth the wait.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rapper, record producer and Hip Hip icon Too $hort talks about getting his start in Oakland, his legendary collaborations and breaks down the trinity/triumvirate of Bay Area hip hop from which all hyphy flows. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bilal sits down with Questlove Supreme and shares his story. The Philadelphia native's complex upbringing and schooling explains why he is a true original, from Jazz scatting to his raw Soul vocals. The guest who recent released Adjust Brightness recalls working with Dr. Dre, Beyoncé, and Kendrick Lamar, while discussing his unreleased sophomore album, his second life as an independent artist, and refusal to be contained or predictable. This a long-awaited conversation that happened at just the right time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boney James joins Questlove Supreme to discuss his journey playing Jazz, Soul, R&B, and Funk. The Grammy Award-winning saxophonist recalls his days playing other instruments as a sideman (and delivering pizzas) to build towards becoming a leader in his space. Boney recalls his upbringing outside of New York City, his time touring with Morris Day, and how he earned his unique stage name. James also describes some of the new ground he's breaking on his latest album, Slow Burn, including his radio-charting single with October London, "All I Want Is You."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questlove, Phonte and Team Supreme talk about their personal, religious and cultural traditions and share some of their favorite holiday memories. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of Questlove's one-on-one with RZA, The Abbott speaks about his latest release, the Classical album inspired by adolescent lyrics, A Ballet Through Mud. Quest' also fans out with RZA, with both artists highlighting some favorite songs from the Wu-Tang Clan crew catalog, discussing some under-sung affiliates, and addressing why Bobby Digital is focused on evolution, not chasing his rich legacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RZA and Questlove connect for a special one-on-one interview that delves into leadership, creative originality, and some crucial Wu-Tang Clan history. RZA, who just released his Classical album, A Ballet Through Mud, reflects on making Wu's breakthrough single "Protect Ya Neck," his sample pioneering work on Raekwon's Only Built 4 Cuban Linx..., and how age has reinforced his growth, maturity, and purpose. This is the first half of a follow-up discussion between Quest' and The Abbott.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Producer, rapper and hip hop legend Pete Rock talks about his deep knowledge of music, recording and the art of sampling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New York Times best-selling author, musician, and activist Kathleen Hanna discusses her new memoir, Rebel Girl: My Life as a Feminist Punk. In a special one-on-one with Questlove, Kathleen also details her passion for records, complicated views on fame and success, and the power of No. In their first extended chat, Questlove also shares the profound impact Hanna had on The Roots by way of the late Richard Nichols and explains how she helped influence Black Lily. This conversation is spirited as two like-minded souls connect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award-winning singer songwriter Siedah Garrett talks about growing up in Compton, her lifelong relationship with Quincy Jones and what it was like on tour with Michael Jackson. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drummer Cindy Blackman Santana joins Questlove Supreme for a career retrospective. She recalls her Ohio childhood, moving to Connecticut, and early days in New York City. Cindy details learning under Jazz legends Tony Williams and Art Blakey and how she was part of an essential movement in the genre during the 1980s. After working with a who's who of Jazz and cementing her own legacy, Cindy details the conversation and audition that would make her a keystone figure within Lenny Kravitz's band. She also describes staying ageless while balancing music and marriage with past QLS guest Carlos Santana. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Team Supreme is joined by Co-founder of Ruffhouse Records, Chris Schwartz. From the streets of Philly, to signing household names like Cypress Hill, Kriss Kross, The Fugees and even giving Quest his first internship, Chris breaks down the highs and lows of running one of the most successful hip hop labels of the 90's.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this special QLS, Jonathan Shecter, aka Shecky Green, looks back at his later years at The Source. The magazine's co-founder and Editor-in-Chief recalls assembling a "mind squad" of legendary writers, editors, and photographers. He details his role in recognizing Nas' incredible talent and Illmatic as a 5-mic classic, as well as experiences with Biggie Smalls, Tupac, and KRS-One. Shecky Green also speaks candidly about his abrupt 1994 exit from the magazine he launched and how he remains in the music curation space today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan Shecter, aka Shecky Green, is the founding Editor-in-Chief of The Source magazine and its co-creator. In part 1 of this special interview, Jonathan recalls his 1980s Philadelphia childhood, Rap dreams, and working at radio staple Power 99. Shecky details The Source's early years and how the magazine began as support for a Harvard University radio show and expanded to "The Bible of Hip-Hop." This episode is packed with history, passion, and insight into the music that is now considered classic material.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amerie sat down twice with Questlove Supreme for this extended episode. The conversation examines the singer's upbringing and passion for reading and information. The self-proclaimed "military brat" explains how her years in Washington D.C. informed her musical taste and why she created albums with a different sound than many of her R&B contemporaries. Amerie also speaks about her breakthrough songs, label woes, and why she does not believe in charging for features. This episode is for QLS listeners who enjoy our trademark rabbit holes—with twists, turns, and laughs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of QLS is a special one-on-one between Team Supreme co-host Unpaid Bill and top songwriter and producer Sam Hollander. Sam, who made hits alongside Metro Station, Fitz and the Tantrums, Panic! At The Disco, and Gym Class Heroes, emphasizes his bumpy career journey. This trajectory includes dropping out of college, a record deal at a famed Rap label, and purposeful collaborations with Carole King and The O'Jays. Sam peppers humor and self-deprecation into a story that offers hope for any impassioned creative. Hollander's book, 21-Hit Wonder: Flopping My Way to the Top of the Charts, chronicles this experience. This episode took place at Renaissance Recording with engineering by Isaiah Abolin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hip hop artist, actor and poet Common talks about how being an NBA ballboy brought him courtside for Michael Jordan's rookie season, his musical influences and personal memories of his time with J Dilla. Recorded in front of a live audience. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This QLS is a special one-on-one episode between Team Supreme co-host Suga Steve and acclaimed singer-songwriter-producer Nick Lowe. During an in-depth conversation, Lowe discusses songs from his sprawling catalog—including the newly released Indoor Safari with Los Straitjackets. He recalls making a song he hoped would get him dropped from his label, and why that plan backfired. Nick talks about his expansion into production, his relationship with vinyl, and the importance of the studio. Nick also tells the story of one of his songs, which he wrote two decades before, catching a monetary tailwind on The Bodyguard Soundtrack. This special QLS episode was recorded live at Reservoir Studios and engineered by James Yost.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey QLS Listeners! Questlove, Story Pirates and iHeart are excited to announce a NEW podcast for kids and families that combines history with hip-hop! Starting September 27th, hear host Nimene, her in-house crew of hilarious historians, and a team of beat-making raccoons broadcast from a top-secret underground bunker where they learn about the unsung heroes of the past by turning their history into hip-hop. You’ll meet one of baseball’s greatest power hitters, a biochemist who laid the groundwork for mRNA vaccines, the first Native American female aerospace engineer, an artist who transformed the streets and subways of NYC, and so many more under-celebrated icons! You’ll even learn about Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old girl in Alabama who refused to give up her seat on the city bus, 9 WHOLE MONTHS before Rosa Parks did the same thing. Historical Records proves that in order to make history, you have to make some noise. Check out the trailer today for yourself. Listen to Historical Records starting September 27th on the iHeartRadio app, or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty-five years after "You Got Me," Eve and Questlove have an in-depth conversation alongside Team Supreme. The Grammy-winning, chart-topping Hip-Hop artist is joined by author and historian Kathy Iandoli to discuss her new memoir Who's That Girl? The discussion traces Eve's steps from West Philadelphia to Hollywood to London and success in music, film, and television. Listen as Eve's passion for rapping and her journey with self-love are apparent in this special conversation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the world lost a music legend in Tito Jackson. In January of 2020, Questlove Supreme first broadcast this 82-minute interview with the heralded guitarist, vocalist, and member of The Jacksons. As our hearts are heavy in mourning, listen to this lighthearted discussion which was taped in-studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a special bonus episode of Questlove Supreme, Laiya St. Clair has an important conversation with Adrianne Shropshire, executive director of the Black Progressive Action Coalition (BPAC). BPAC is an independent progressive coalition of individuals and organizations committed to empowering Black communities through civic engagement, community mobilization and campaigns that turn issues into policies that change people’s lives. Listen as Laiya and Adrianne discuss the importance of having a plan in place to ensure your vote counts and dispel the myths about early voting. Whether voting in-person, by mail, or early voting in states that allow it, make sure your voice is heard. For more information and resources, visit www.bpacdemocracytoolkit.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billy Porter's raw and uncut appearance on Questlove Supreme continues with Part 2. The musician, actor, and performer who just released Black Mona Lisa, Vol. 2: The Cookout Sessions, opens up about his strong political views and therapeutic journey. Billy explains why he became one of the first celebrities to be transparent and vulnerable with his AIDS diagnosis and treatment. The dynamic guest also speaks about his return to the Kinky Boots stage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billy Porter joins Questlove Supreme for a spirited two-part interview. In Part 1, Billy recalls his Pittsburgh upbringing around the stage and some of his earliest musical memories. The Emmy, Tony, and Grammy Award-winning artist also explains why he has fought so hard to be respected across mediums and asserts why his new EP, Black Mona Lisa: The Cookout Sessions, commands a new lane for himself — with an exclamation point.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the greatest guitarists of all time, Johnny Marr, joins Questlove Supreme to talk about his playing style and extensive career. The Roots' Captain Kirk Douglas joins the conversation as a special guest co-host. Marr speaks about growing up in Manchester, England, and co-founding The Smiths. He touches on his time with Modest Mouse and The Pretenders, giving away famous guitars and being embraced by diverse audiences. This conversation is a thoughtful and revealing look at a true master craftsman passionate about all types of music.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singer-Songwriter Darius Rucker talks about Hootie & the Blowfish, going from playing frat parties with Dave Matthews to The Grand Ole Opry as a solo artist and the obstacles he faced along the way. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Past QLS guests Common and Pete Rock return to the podcast together to celebrate their new album, "The Auditorium, Vol. 1." Common explains how a recent freestyle and a series of Hip-Hop 50th anniversary events reignited his passion for music-making, while Pete Rock reveals that even if the address has changed his basement studio remains an epicenter for creation. Questlove, who sequenced the new album, explains why the LP is a high mark for MC/producer collaboration. This conversation unpacks the new album, sheds light on what's to come, and gathers some friends for a fun, lighthearted catch-up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicolay joins Phonte as The Foreign Exchange to speak with Team Supreme in-studio. This conversation celebrates the 20th anniversary of F.E.'s beloved debut album Connected and the 25th anniversary of OkayPlayer, where this duo first met and formed. The special discussion revisits the message board days and reveals why Nicolay and Phontigallo still honor their original formula. The episode also follows Nic's music-minded journey from the Netherlands to North Carolina, his distinct approach to production, and how The Foreign Exchange was unfazed by Grammy recognition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jazz musician, songwriter and co-founder of A&M records Herb Alpert talks about the art of the trumpet, writing hits with Sam Cooke, the secret to outselling The Beatles and how he really feels about getting sampled by Biggie. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the last year, The Roots' Questlove and Ray Angry made an album with today's guest — Jazz legend David Murray. David is a veteran saxophonist and a longtime leader within the Free Jazz movement. In this episode, taped in-studio, David explains why freedom in music reflects freedom in life. He recalls highlights of a 55-plus-year journey with intersections with a who's who of Jazz, as well as Sly Stone and The Grateful Dead. David discusses the moods, attitudes, tours, and figures that have colored his career. He also discusses working with The Roots and collaborating with Quest and Ray for their Plumb material.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of Questlove's one-on-one interview with Sananda Maitreya, the esteemed guest details his personal and professional transformation. The creator of this year's The Pegasus Project: Pegasus & The Swan highlights some songs from the album, including "Walk On" with Jellybean Johnson. The post-millennium rocker also speaks about making his home in Milan, Italy, an affinity for Jean-Michel Basquiat, and so much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a special one-on-one conversation with Questlove, Sananda Maitreya discusses his early days. This conversation includes praise for Stevie Wonder as well as crediting Rod Stewart for his trademark rasp. Sananda speaks about time in Harlem and his ambitions as a boxer. Sananda also talks about performing at the 1988 Grammy Awards, with Michael Jackson, Prince, and Smokey Robinson watching from the front row, revealing some extra detail about that set.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Class is in session! Questlove Supreme prides itself on bringing you stories from masters of their craft. George Faison's story derives from a time that established and birthed the beauty of diverse Black dance and dancers to provide the foundation for what we see on the world's stage, film, and music videos today. Dancing has remained at the epicenter of his career, but Mr. Faison is also an actor, director, composer, producer, essayist, playwright, and writer who is the first Black choreographer to earn a Tony Award for the original Broadway production of The Wiz. How did that lead him to work with legends like Aretha, Stevie, EWF, and Ashford & Simpson? Listen up!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American jazz virtuoso and bassist Christian McBride talks about playing with Miles Davis as a high schooler, the "ins and outs" of his craft and how he got himself all tangled up in James Brown's world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.