The Roots have been regarded as one of the world’s most respected hip-hop acts since their formation in Philadelphia in 1987. The group, centered around childhood friends Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter (vocals) and Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson (drums), is known for its musical versatility, and effortless blending of rap with soul, jazz, and funk. With albums like Things Fall Apart (1999) and Wake Up! (2010, featuring John Legend), the band has built up an impressive body of work, which has been honored with four Grammy Awards and numerous nominations. Rolling Stone magazine named them one of the best live acts, a title they have lived up to for over a decade as the house band for the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Meanwhile, the Roots continue to inspire new generations of musicians, including through their own annual festival, the Roots Picnic. Their concerts are a true musical journey through the history of Black American music – energetic, creative, and always full of surprises. At the festival, they’ll be joined by Bilal and Jon Batiste, so it’s sure to be a show to remember!
