Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, born in 1971, began his musical journey at a young age, growing up in a Philadelphia household filled with soul, jazz, and funk. His father, Lee Andrews, was a renowned soul singer, exposing Questlove to a rich musical environment from the start. Questlove’s first foray into the music industry was as a drummer for local bands in his teens, honing his skills and developing his unique style behind the kit.

In 1987, Questlove co-founded The Roots, a hip-hop band that would eventually become the house band on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” The group gained fame in the 1990s with their blend of hip-hop, jazz, and soul, releasing several critically acclaimed albums. Questlove’s innovative drumming and production work, combined with his deep musical knowledge, began to draw widespread attention, catapulting him into the spotlight.

Questlove’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Questlove, the renowned drummer and co-founder of The Roots, has an estimated net worth of $50 million. This figure reflects his successful career in the music industry, as well as his various entrepreneurial ventures.

Career

Questlove, born Ahmir Khalib Thompson, began his music career in the late 1980s as a member of The Roots, a hip-hop band from Philadelphia. The group gained prominence in the 1990s and has since become the house band on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” Questlove has also produced numerous albums for other artists and has scored several films.

Other Ventures

Beyond his musical pursuits, Questlove has ventured into various other fields. He has authored a book, “Mo’ Meta Blues,” and has a cooking show, “Questlove’s Potluck,” on the Food Network. He also co-owns a restaurant, “Imperial Dinasty,” in Philadelphia.

Assets

Questlove’s assets include his record label, “Okayplayer,” which he co-founded in 1999. He also owns a significant collection of vinyl records, estimated to be worth millions. Additionally, he has invested in real estate, owning properties in both Philadelphia and New York City.

Annual Income

Questlove’s annual income is primarily derived from his work with The Roots and his production work. As of 2025, his annual income is estimated to be around $5 million. This figure can vary depending on touring schedules, album sales, and other revenue streams.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Questlove

Frequently Asked Questions: Questlove Net Worth

1. What is Questlove’s net worth?

Questlove’s net worth is estimated to be around $16 million.

2. How did Questlove make his money?

Questlove, whose real name is Ahmir Khalib Thompson, made his fortune through his music career as a drummer, DJ, and music producer. He is also a co-founder of the hip-hop band The Roots, which serves as the house band on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

3. What is Questlove’s role in The Roots?

Questlove is the drummer and joint frontman, along with Black Thought, of The Roots, which he co-founded in 1987. He is also the band’s main producer and musical director.

4. Has Questlove won any awards?

Yes, Questlove has won four Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for “You Got Me” in 1999 and Best Rap Album for “Undun” in 2011, both with The Roots.

5. What other projects has Questlove been involved in?

Questlove has been involved in various projects outside of The Roots, including producing albums for artists like D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Amy Winehouse. He has also scored films, such as “Dope” and “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping,” and directed the documentary “Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised).”

6. Does Questlove have any side hustles?

Questlove has several side hustles, including his own record label, Okayplayer, and a food catering business called “Questlove’s Cheesesteaks.” He also has a line of sneakers with Reebok and has written books, such as “Mo’ Meta Blues: The World According to Questlove” and “Creative Quest: Rediscovering the Pleasures of Possibility.”

7. What is Questlove’s real name?

Questlove’s real name is Ahmir Khalib Thompson.

8. Where was Questlove born?

Questlove was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 20, 1971.

9. Is Questlove married?

Yes, Questlove is married to his longtime girlfriend, Nicolina Lanni. They have two children together.

10. What is Questlove’s height?

Questlove is 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters) tall.