Diving into Nostalgia: Highlights from the “Reliving Single” Podcast Episode with Queen Latifah
On this week’s episode of the “Reliving Single” podcast, fans of the iconic 90s sitcom felt like they were eavesdropping on a cozy girls’ night in. Hosted by Erika Alexander, Kim Coles, and featuring Queen Latifah, the discussion brought to life the vibrant camaraderie of Khadijah James, Maxine Shaw (attorney at law), and Synclaire James-Jones.
Unveiling Behind-the-Scenes Magic
The atmosphere of the episode was reminiscent of the banter among the show’s beloved characters. Queen Latifah, who played the resourceful Khadijah, offered listeners a peek behind the curtain of the series that inspired a generation of Black journalists. One of the most engaging topics was her reflection on Erika Alexander’s transformative impact on the show.
Latifah recounted how Alexander, who jokingly referred to herself as “found off the street like an urchin,” became an integral part of the show’s dynamic. Latifah’s excitement about Alexander’s addition highlighted the collaborative energy that contributed to the show’s success.
A Strong Influence on Set
Latifah expressed admiration for Alexander’s strong influence, reminding her co-star to recognize the formidable presence she brought to the cast. “To get you [Erika Alexander] was like, ‘What?!’” Latifah exclaimed, emphasizing how Alexander’s creativity and confidence enriched their collective performances.
Jokingly labeling Alexander a “professional maverick, kingdom, queendom urchin,” Latifah reflected on how they guided her through the unfamiliar landscape of television and acting. For Latifah, entering the sitcom world was an eye-opening experience, as she candidly admitted, “I wasn’t used to TV. I didn’t know anything about TV. I barely knew much about acting at all.”
From Music to Television
Before stepping into the role of Khadijah, Queen Latifah had already made waves in the music industry as a pioneering female MC and as the mastermind behind the multimedia production company, Flavor Unit. Her background influenced the creative decisions on “Living Single,” particularly when it came to the show’s theme song.
Latifah revealed that she initially conceived a completely different theme titled “My Girls.” With her musical expertise, she wanted to ensure the theme was memorable and resonant. “I gotta do this theme song,” she remarked, reflecting on the significance of catchy tunes in establishing a show’s identity.
The Evolution of the Iconic Theme
However, after filming the pilot, the studio’s decision to change the show’s name prompted Latifah to return to her creative space. This led her to craft the unforgettable theme that fans grew to love: “We are Living Single.” Her ability to pivot and adapt showcased her artistry and dedication to the project.
Latifah’s process involved merging her passion for music with her newfound role in television, resulting in a theme song that encapsulated the essence of friendship and community portrayed in the series.
Listen and Relive the Experience
For fans eager to relive this nostalgic journey, the full episode of “Reliving Single” featuring Queen Latifah captures the essence of what made the show memorable. The infectious energy, humorous anecdotes, and heartfelt connections shared by the cast create an experience that feels like returning home to a cherished friend group.
For the full episode, check out the embedded video below: