Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson is celebrated as a drummer, producer, and cultural curator, best known for his work with The Roots and collaborations with a wide range of influential artists. Below are five of his most revered tracks…
“You Got Me” – The Roots (featuring Erykah Badu)
“You Got Me” stands as a career-defining moment for Questlove and The Roots. Released in 1999 on the album Things Fall Apart, the track features soulful vocals by Erykah Badu and a rap verse by Eve. The song won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000, cementing The Roots’ mainstream breakthrough. Questlove’s intricate drumming and production, paired with the band’s organic sound, set a new standard for live instrumentation in hip-hop.
The creation of “You Got Me” was a collaborative process that brought together several luminaries of the neo-soul and hip-hop scenes. The song’s lyrics, written by Jill Scott (who originally recorded the chorus before label politics led to Badu’s feature), explore themes of trust and fidelity in relationships. Questlove’s rhythmic sensibility and attention to sonic detail helped the track resonate with a broad audience, making it a staple in The Roots’ catalog and a touchstone of late-90s hip-hop.
“Break You Off” – The Roots (feat. Musiq Soulchild)
“Break You Off” is a standout single from The Roots’ acclaimed 2002 album Phrenology. Produced by Questlove, the track features a lush, seductive groove anchored by his signature live drumming and a sultry hook sung by Musiq Soulchild. The song’s blend of hip-hop, soul, and R&B elements exemplifies Questlove’s ability to merge genres seamlessly while maintaining a sophisticated musicality. The production is rich with organic instrumentation, giving the track a warm, timeless feel that sets it apart from typical early-2000s hip-hop.
The collaboration between The Roots and Musiq Soulchild was a natural fit, as both acts were at the forefront of Philadelphia’s neo-soul movement. Questlove’s production on “Break You Off” highlights his knack for crafting intricate arrangements that serve both the song and the artists involved. The track became a hit on urban radio and remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its smooth vibe and the chemistry between Black Thought’s verses and Musiq’s vocals.
“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” – D’Angelo
D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” from the album Voodoo (2000) is widely regarded as a masterpiece of modern soul. Questlove served as the album’s primary drummer and a key creative force, helping to craft its signature groove-heavy, analog sound. His drumming on “Untitled” is both sensual and precise, providing the heartbeat for one of the era’s most iconic slow jams.
The making of Voodoo was an intense, collaborative process at Electric Lady Studios, with Questlove and D’Angelo obsessing over every detail. Questlove has described the sessions as a period of deep musical exploration, pushing the boundaries of rhythm and feel. The result was a timeless track that not only defined D’Angelo’s career but also showcased Questlove’s artistry and influence as a drummer and producer.
“Other Side of the Game” – Erykah Badu
“Other Side of the Game,” from Erykah Badu’s debut album Baduizm (1997), features Questlove’s signature drumming and production touch. The song blends jazz, soul, and hip-hop elements, with Questlove’s rhythms underpinning Badu’s smooth vocals and storytelling. His subtle yet inventive approach to percussion helped establish the neo-soul sound and Badu’s reputation as a genre-defining artist.
The track’s laid-back groove and intricate drum patterns are a testament to Questlove’s ability to serve the song while adding depth and complexity. “Other Side of the Game” remains a standout in Badu’s discography and is frequently cited as a quintessential example of Questlove’s influence on the evolution of soul and R&B in the late 1990s.
“Fell in Love with a Boy” by Joss Stone.
Questlove arranged and played drums on this track, which is a soulful cover of The White Stripes’ original song. This collaboration showcases Questlove’s versatility beyond hip-hop and neo-soul, bringing his distinctive drumming style to a rock-infused, energetic performance that highlights his ability to adapt across genres.
“Fell in Love with a Boy” appeared on Joss Stone’s early work and is notable for its raw, live feel, with Questlove’s rhythmic precision driving the song’s momentum. This track is a great example of how Questlove’s musicianship enhances and transforms songs outside his typical sphere, making it a revered piece in his diverse discography.
