Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson has done it all in the world of entertainment. He’s helped propel the success of The Roots, worked with his fellow bandmates to organize the annual Roots Picnic in Philadelphia and served as the musical director for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. As his career has progressed, he’s worked to merge his love for music with his interest in film. Most notably, he executive produced Top Five and starred in Soul. More recently, he’s taken things to new heights with his directorial debut, Summer of Soul.
Questlove kicked off his career as a director more than a year ago when he debuted his first film, Summer of Soul, at the Sundance Film Festival. Over time, the film made its way from film festivals to theaters. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the film brought fans to the theaters and earned rave reviews. Tonight, the full-length documentary received the ultimate co-sign. Moments after Chris Rock took the stage at the 94th Academy Awards, Questlove won his first Academy Award.
“This is not about me. This is about marginalized people in Harlem that need to heal from pain,” Questlove said as he received his award.
With an Academy Award under his belt, Questlove moves on step closer to earning “EGOT” status. Fellow musician Beyoncé looks to do the same if she can win “Best Original Song” later this evening.
A great night for documentary – Ahmir Questlove Thompson wins the Oscar for Summer of Soul. pic.twitter.com/EmmfHDxXZh
— Julie Cohen (@FilmmakerJulie) March 28, 2022
