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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Recorded from Minneapolis: A special visit with Prince's band, The Revolution, where they talk about Prince's early days, his life and the truth behind the legend.

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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.

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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

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