Questlove Announced The Release Date For His Next Book, ‘Hip-Hop Is History’

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At this point, Questlove has so many jobs, it’s not only hard to keep track of them all but one also wonders when exactly he has the time to do so many things without the assistance of a secret twin, a la The Prestige. He’s joked about it himself, but it’s getting out of hand; in addition to organizing the Grammys’ hip-hop tribute in 2023, organizing the annual Roots Picnic, directing the live-action Aristocats remake for Disney, and curating playlists for his celebrity friends, he’s a best-selling author. In that last capacity, he just announced the release date for his upcoming book, Hip-Hop Is History, a deep-dive follow-up to his fifth book, Music Is History.

Questlove announced Hip-Hop Is History last August, so that turnaround is pretty impressive. At the time, he said, “No one asked me to, but I’m carrying that burden. And for all those who are present and accounted for, there is something to celebrate with hip hop’s 50th.There may be a lot of water under that bridge. Our disdain for looking in the rearview mirror is entrenched in pain and trauma. But as a child of legacy and nostalgia culture, I want to be the GPS for people to celebrate that thing called hip-hop.”

Hip-Hop Is History is out on June 11 via Auwa Books, Questlove’s own imprint.

Questlove Announces New Book “Hip-Hop Is History” to Release in June

Questlove Announces New Book "Hip-Hop Is History" in June

Renowned director, musician, and author Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson has unveiled details about his groundbreaking new book, Hip-Hop Is History, slated to launch on June 11th under his AUWA Books imprint. With co-author Ben Greenman, Questlove offers a perceptive and deeply personal exploration of hip-hop’s evolution over the past half-century.

In “Hip-Hop Is History,” Questlove delves into the cultural and creative forces that shaped hip-hop, blending forgotten gems with chart-topping hits. Through intimate storytelling, he provides unique insights into the genre’s rise from its humble beginnings to its current cultural dominance.

As a Grammy Award-winning musician, Academy Award-winning filmmaker, and bestselling author, Questlove brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the subject. Growing up in Philadelphia, hip-hop became his obsession and inspiration, leading him on a journey that would redefine music history.

With Hip-Hop Is History, Questlove offers a retrospective of hip-hop’s past and a visionary perspective on its future. The book will be available in hardcover, e-book, and digital audio formats through AUWA Books, an imprint of MCD/FSG, marking a significant milestone in hip-hop literature.

The post Questlove Announces New Book “Hip-Hop Is History” to Release in June first appeared on The Source.

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Questlove Slams The ‘I Love Real Music’ Folks Upset Over Sexyy Red’s Upcoming Appearance At The 2024 Roots Picnic

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With music festival season approaching, organizers have realized you can’t please the public. Following the reveal of the 2024 Roots Picnic, Questlove quickly learned this lesson. Over the years, as the event has expanded to be more inclusive of fans’ tastes, the outdoor event not only added a second day but mixed up its featured act.

After welcoming each billed musician via an individual shout-out on his Instagram page, followers blasted Questlove for booking Sexyy Red to the fest that has its roots in R&B, neo-soul, and vintage hip-hop.

Yesterday (February 19), Questlove had enough of the negative remarks and responded to silence the critics replying to a comment left under his initial post.

“There is always that one [act] on the show everyone hates because it serves as a reminder the hip hop they like is from 30 years ago,” he wrote. “I mean, I get it, but look: we gotta round and balance the day out. There are other stages, podcasts, and events to see.”

Questlove didn’t stop there. He went on to slam users for pouring their hate into Sexyy Red’s announcement instead of appreciating the other acts set to perform.

“I’m still shocked yall got energy for ‘oh hell no isms,’” he wrote. “Like it’s 16 years folks, when have you seen a festival in which every act is the act you love? I mean, the way I see it: cats in here bringing a certain energy: meanwhile, there is a whole entire Jill [Scott] post, Amerie post, Black Thought post, and a Meth[od Man] and Red[man] post. I see/hear nary a ‘I love real music’ person supporting that page. It’s almost worth it just for this engagement & trolling was the last thing on my mind lol. Roots Picnic is well-rounded, and that’s why it works.”

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This isn’t the first time the Roots Picnic’s lineup has caused a stir online. In 2023, organizers were questioned after GloRilla and Saucy Santana were announced to perform. Festival regulars, City Girls, have been met with negative backlash for years. However, given Roots Picnic’s rise in popularity over the years, it is safe to say organizers are doing something right.

The general on-sale for the 2024 Roots Picnic begins on February 23 at 10 a.m. ET. Find more information here.

Sexyy Red’s Inclusion On The Roots Picnic Lineup Causes Fans To Criticize Questlove

Earlier this week, Questlove announced the lineup for this year’s Roots Picnic. The two-day festival is a staple of Philadelphia dating back to 2008. This year’s fest will take place on June 1 and 2 and now fans know exactly who they’ll see there. The Roots themselves are headlining the festival alongside Lil Wayne in a performance meant to tribute New Orleans. Andre 3000 will also do a special performance of his ambient jazz album New Blue Sun.

Elsewhere in the lineup some of the biggest recent stars of rap will perform. Nas will take the stage fresh off of a 6 album run with producer Hit-Boy dating back to 2020. Last year, Gunna had one of the biggest hits of 2023 with “fukumean” and he’s likely to deliver the song during his slot at The Roots Picnic. The festival even has this year’s winner of the Best New Artist Grammy Victoria Monet in its lineup. But despite all those big names one particular inclusion has been the most discussed among fans, Sexyy Red. Check out some of what fans had to say about her spot on the lineup below.

Read More: Sexyy Red’s Mystery Man Unveiled

Fans React To Sexyy Red’s Inclusion At Roots Picnic

Questlove took to Instagram to share some posts about who was incuded at this year’s festival. Just like almost anywhere Sexyy Red pops up, her post was a lightning rod for fan backlash. “Of ALL the sisters doing positive Hip Hop y’all really gonna promote this Hot ass mess ?” one of the top comments on the post reads.

Other are even harsher with some claiming the festival itself will suffer merely for including her. “Damn RIP Roots Picnic. Fell off before I got a chance to see it.” one especially dramatic comment reads. Red has been met with controversy repeatedly throughout her breakout year and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. What do you think of Sexyy Red being included at Roots Picnic? Do you think she deserves a spot at the festival alongside acts like Gunna and Victoria Monet? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: Sexyy Red’s 2023 Features, Ranked

[Via]

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Questlove Net Worth 2024: Updated Wealth Of The Hip Hop Star

Ahmir Khalib Thompson, known globally as Questlove, is an icon in the music industry, celebrated for his versatility. So, what is the net worth of this hip-hop star in 2024?

Questlove’s Net Worth in 2024

Celebrity Net Worth estimates Questlove’s net worth in 2024 to be around $14 million. This figure embodies his success in various aspects of the music and entertainment industry.

The Musical Journey

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LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 26: Recording artist Questlove of music group The Roots performs onstage during the 2016 BET Awards at the Microsoft Theater on June 26, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/BET/Getty Images for BET)

Questlove is most recognized as the drummer and co-frontman of the Grammy-winning band The Roots. Their innovative blend of hip-hop and live instrumentation has led to numerous successful albums and tours, contributing significantly to Questlove’s wealth. Beyond his music, Questlove has found success in television. As the bandleader for The Roots on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, he has gained significant exposure and income.

Author, Director, & Entrepreneur

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NORTH ADAMS, MASSACHUSETTS – JULY 08: Questlove of The Roots performs at Mass MoCA on July 08, 2022 in North Adams, Massachusetts. (Photo by Douglas Mason/WireImage)

Questlove’s talents extend to writing and directing. He has authored several books and made his directorial debut with the documentary Summer of Soul, adding another source of income and further enhancing his reputation. At the 2022 Academy Awards, Summer of Soul took the trophy for Best Documentary Feature.

Questlove is also an entrepreneur with successful ventures in the food industry. His Questlove’s Cheesesteak and Questlove’s Vegetarian Cheesesteak have been popular additions to several sports stadiums, contributing to his net worth.

The Influence Of Questlove

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HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 27: Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson winner of Documentary (Feature) award for ‘Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)’ award poses in the press room during the 94th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland on March 27, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

While his net worth is noteworthy, Questlove’s influence in music and culture extends beyond his earnings. His innovative style and commitment to music education have inspired countless artists and fans. The famed musician’s net worth in 2024 is a testament to his diversified talents, entrepreneurial spirit, and influential career in music and entertainment. With a net worth of $14 million, Questlove has carved a unique path to success, proving that a passion for art and a savvy business mind can lead to financial prosperity. His story serves as a blueprint for aspiring artists, showing that creativity and versatility can result in cultural impact and financial success.

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Happy 53rd Birthday To The Roots’ Questlove!

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Happy Born day to Ahmir Khalib Thompson better known as ?uestlove a.k.a Questlove! Born in 1971, he turns a half-century today. The OG is originally known as the drummer for the legendary Hip Hop band The Roots, but he has many roles.

On February 17, 2014, he became a part of the in-house band for The Tonight Show, and with The Roots, he’s played the same role during the 969-episodes of  Late Night With Jimmy Fallon. 

Let’s not forget about the many artists he has produced such as Jay Z, Common, D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, the late Amy Winehouse, John Legend, and old school R&B legend Al Green. The list goes on with all the production teams he has been a part of, including Hip Hop pioneers like The Soulsonics and The Grand Wizards.

The influence of this multi-faceted musician has reached far beyond most in his life thus far, and he’s nearly only halfway thru. Happy Birthday Questlove and many more to come!

The post Happy 53rd Birthday To The Roots’ Questlove! first appeared on The Source.

The post Happy 53rd Birthday To The Roots’ Questlove! appeared first on The Source.

Andre 3000 Recalls Meeting Prince, Thought He Was Throwing Shade

During his recent appearance on the Questlove Supreme podcast, Andre 3000 reflected on meeting Prince at an LA club ahead of his 2016 death. According to the Outkast star, he wasn’t sure whether the icon was a fan of his work or not, making for a pretty nerve-wracking encounter.

“I [had] met Prince in passing. [Around the time of] The Love Below, I lived in L.A. I remember me and the homie goin’ out to a club on Sunset [Boulevard],” he began. “So I got over to this booth, and it’s Prince, and he’s sitting. And I’m very nervous, man. He motions his hand [to sit down]. I sat down and I didn’t know what to say. He could tell that I didn’t know what to say.”

Read More: Andre 3000 Thanks Frank Ocean For “Blessing” Post-Outkast Career, Among Others

Andre 3000 On Nerve-Wracking Prince Encounter

“So I’m sitting there, and he starts talking about ‘Hey Ya,’” he continued. “But what he said, I didn’t know how to take it, if he was taking a dig at me or what. He said, ‘I like that song, ‘Hey Ya,’ man, like, I thought I was the only person who did songs in those tempos.’ That’s what he said to me. I didn’t know if he was like, ‘Mmm. Take that, n***a.’ I didn’t know how to take it; this is my hero.

“The album had just come out, and we were trying to figure out the next single. And so I didn’t know what to say him, so I said, ‘Hey, have you heard the album?’ He’s like, ‘Yeah, I heard it.’ I say, ‘Well, what do you think the next single should be?’ Then he said another Prince thing; he said, ‘In my day, we only had one shot.’ Basically, he was saying, it don’t matter now, whatever you do, it don’t matter. And I didn’t know how to take that either. It’s like, okay, cool,” he added. What do you think of Andre 3000 revealing that he thought Prince was throwing shade the first time they met? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: Yasiin Bey, F.K.A. Mos Def, Gives Andre 3000 Flute Track A Rap Verse At Dubai Show

[Via]

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How Did André 3000 Learn To Play Flute?

Atlanta rap legend André 3000 threw his fans one hell of a curve ball with his new album, New Blue Sun. Technically, it’s his first solo album after years of making cultural classics with Outkast, but rather than rapping, which is what every wanted from him 15 years after Outkast called it quits, it’s a whole album of him playing flute music.

As it turns out, that was just fine for plenty of us, especially after he’d spent the last decade popping up and playing his flutes in random locations, but it did leave fans with a few questions. Fortunately, we’ve got Questlove to ask those questions for us, which he did in a brand-new episode of his long-running podcast, Questlove Supreme, recorded in LA with 3 Stacks but without his usual co-hosts.

In the interview, which finds Amir tossing off what he calls “non sequitur” questions to Dre’s delight, 3K reveals why he started playing the flute in the first place and how he learned.

Why Does André 3000 Play The Flute?

André explains that he “chose” the flute “because of the ‘mobileness’ of the flute.” He says he tooled around with acoustic and bass guitars but because flutes are so portable, he can just pull it out and start playing anytime — including in the backs of Ubers.

How Many Flutes Does André 3000 Have?

He says he has about 30 flutes, all from different makers. The style he has the most of is based on Mesoamerican instruments that were originally made of clay.

How Did André 3000 Learn To Play The Flute?

Dre says he “got schooled by Uber drivers,” since he would often play during rides and learned different cultural approaches to the instrument (it does seem like every culture in the world has a version of the instrument). “If I’m playing and it’s a Chinese driver,” he elaborates, “He’ll turn around like, ‘That reminds me of my country!’ Or if it’s a Japanese driver… or if it’s an African. I’m playing the same flute, but every nationality of driver will turn around and tell me it reminds them of their country.

Does André 3000 Play Flute By Ear?

Quest asks Andre, “When you play… are your hands telling you what to do or do you know that this particular position will yield this note and that note?” André calls this the “fun and scary part” about how he plays, saying he knows that holding his hands a certain way, it makes a certain sound, but musical theory is beyond him.

Questlove Claims He Lost Two Teeth Planning The Hip-Hop 50 Tribute At The 2023 Grammys Due To The Sheer Level Of Stress

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Recently Questlove, musician, author, and director, served as curator for the Grammys‘ tribute to 50 years of hip-hop, bringing together pioneers like Grandmaster Flash and newcomers like Lil Uzi Vert. While the transitions through the decades appeared smooth onstage, Questlove was falling apart behind the scenes. On December 7, during an interview on Grammy.com, Questlove claimed due to the sheer level of stress brought on by all of the planning, he lost two teeth by the end of the process.

“After the success of the thing that we did in March — that 12-minute revue thing — I’ll be honest with you,” he said. “For 12 minutes, that was like going through damn near, and I’m not even using hyperbolic statements by saying, coming out within an inch of my life.”

He continued, “When that moment was literally over, and I was on the airplane landing back in New York, two of my teeth fell out. That’s the level of stress I was [under]. Imagine landing in JFK, and I got to rush to ‘The Tonight Show,’ but then it’s like, Oh, wait, what’s happening? Oh God, no! My teeth are falling out! And going to emergency surgery. My whole takeaway was like: Never again.”

It looks like the culture owes Questlove a considerable debt and reimbursement for medical expenses.

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Questlove Has An Amazingly Star-Studded Roster Of Celebrities He Makes Playlists For And Conan O’Brien Wants In

The podcast is called Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend, but after welcoming Questlove for the September 4 episode, Conan O’Brien needs a playlist.

Questlove is known for making playlists for his friends. His friends, as O’Brien put it, just so happen to be “some of the most famous people in the world.” Questlove said the hobby “started with The Obamas” and admitted to some slight trolling after O’Brien asked, “Do you ever throw something in there — like the theme from Gilligan’s Island — just something that’s gonna freak [former US President Barack Obama] out?”

“I do that all the time,” Questlove said. “He doesn’t question much. There’s a few people who are like, ‘Did you really mean to put this version of that song on there?’ I will lightly troll. I’m not trying to troll more than I’m just trying to expand the palette.”

The Roots legend continued, “Because, I think, oftentimes when it comes to streaming, there are billions of songs out there, but we’re only gonna go to the 32 songs that we know. And I’m willing to do the musical, metaphorical equivalent of the Shawshank sh*t crawl. I go through about 500 songs a week, of which maybe seven are cool.”

Questlove then explained his Blue Ivy-related reasoning behind adding Beyoncé and Jay-Z to the group — even though it seems to me that the only reason he’d need is that they are, ahem, BEYONCÉ AND JAY-Z — and shared that Bill Hader, Spike Lee, Martha Stewart, Kenan Thompson, and Norah Jones are also among recipients of curated Questlove playlists.

“I text 700 times a month to [this] list of people,” Questlove said, handing his phone to a very impressed O’Brien. He asked O’Brien if he’d want to be added to the list, which feels like a rhetorical question.

Watch the clip above.