MUSIC IS HISTORY

Questlove, the bandleader of the Roots, the “Tonight Show” band, chooses one pop song from each of the past 50 years and gives his take on how it relates to other songs, his growth as a musician, and the headline cultural events of that year. His knowledge of pop music and its creators is substantial and a real treat to hear. He’s an industry insider and intelligent observer of music’s commercial and artistic arcs. His performance is a comfortable blend of pro-level reading and genuine enthusiasm that is punctuated with tasty sound effects and quotes delivered by an unnamed voice talent. Along with his keen insights on racial politics and culture, his easy-to-hear performance will make listeners feel like they are “in the room” with the personalities and cultural energy of each era. T.W. 2022 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2021]