The Questlove Show

The mini-episode features Open Mike Eagle and Cousin Jake unpacking the recently released Questlove Show interview with Riz Ahmed. Beginning with a behind-the-scenes look at how the virtual conversation came together—amid travel, press days, and technical echo issues—they explore Riz's deep roots as a Hip Hop head, dating back to the Rawkus Records and Lyricist Lounge era.
The discussion then shifts to Questlove's current Hip Hop worldview, focusing on his appreciation for character-driven artists such as Kool Keith, Edan, MF DOOM, and MC Paul Barman—names he singled out during the interview. Mike also reflects on his personal connection to Ahmir, recalling the Paul Barman track "Echo Chamber," which was discussed on Mike's 2025 guest appearance on the show.
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Oscar and Emmy winner Riz Ahmed sits down with Questlove for a personal conversation that spans music, art, identity, and purpose. Bonding over a lifelong love of music (especially Hip-Hop), the two reflect on the moments that have defined their careers. Riz also shares the inspiration behind recent projects, including the new series Bait and his bold interpretation of Hamlet. This episode captures an authentic exchange between two boundary-pushing artists whose stories stretch across the Atlantic.
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Earth, Wind & Fire's Ralph Johnson sits down with Questlove for a wide-ranging conversation about the music, moments, and mindset that shaped one of the greatest bands of all time. From spinning Benny Goodman records as a kid and witnessing a transformative James Brown concert in 1966 to navigating Los Angeles during The Watts Riots, Ralph reflects on the experiences that set him on the path to becoming Earth, Wind & Fire's legendary drummer. He also shares stories from the band's early hustle—playing legendary clubs, piling into station wagons, and chasing every opportunity—through their breakthrough audition for Clive Davis and the evolution into a groundbreaking live act known for its unforgettable blend of music, magic, choreography, and spectacle.
Along the way, Ralph discusses the artists who inspired him, his work producing noteworthy tracks outside of Earth, Wind & Fire, and Maurice White's vision, spirituality, and enduring influence on the band's sound and philosophy. He also opens up about the group's 1983 breakup, the enduring legacy of songs like "September," and what led him to write his memoir, Rhythm & Fire: A Life in Harmony with Earth, Wind & Fire. The conversation, which also celebrates Quest's latest documentary, Earth, Wind & Fire: To Be Celestial vs. That's The Weight of the World, closes with Ralph reflecting on why now felt like the right time to tell his story, as well as the passions—from cooking to art collecting—that continue to fuel his creativity today.
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Listen back as the masterminds behind Top Shelf 1988 join Team Supreme to discuss the most transformative year in Hip-Hop history.
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Open Mike Eagle and Cousin Jake link for a mini-episode to unpack Questlove's long-awaited conversation with Chuck D. Along the way, they discuss the disappearance of Hip-Hop's "middle class," the vital role independent labels played in sustaining it, and why those ecosystems matter now more than ever.
As the two QLS affiliates revisit highlights from the Chuck D interview, Mike shares a surreal story about attending one of Chuck D's lectures while in college. Together, they explore the importance of preserving the stories, spaces, and conversations that keep Hip-Hop's history alive—and why documenting its legends remains as essential as celebrating them.
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