The Roots

The Roots are a hip-hop group from Philadelphia, formed in the late 1980s by rapper Black Thought and drummer Questlove. Known for their instrumental approach to rap—blending groove, jazz, soul and funk—they redefined live hip-hop at a time dominated by samples and drum machines. With a rich, socially engaged discography that includes landmark albums such as Things Fall Apart, Phrenology, Game Theory and How I Got Over, The Roots established themselves as pioneers of an organic, thoughtful sound. Winners of multiple Grammy Awards—including Best R&B Album for Wake Up! and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group for Shine with John Legend—they exemplify musical excellence at the crossroads of genres. They also organize the annual Roots Picnic, a festival that has become a cultural touchstone in the United States, and have served for years as the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Constantly evolving, The Roots continue to fuse virtuosity, conscience and creative freedom into timeless hip-hop.