The Roots

The Roots
Name	The Roots

The Roots are a highly influential American hip hop group from Philadelphia, formed in 1987 by Tariq Trotter and Ahmir Thompson. The group is known for their unique blend of jazz, funk, and soul music, and have collaborated with artists such as John Legend, Erykah Badu, and Jay-Z. They have also been associated with other notable musicians, including Kanye West, The Black Eyed Peas, and Fall Out Boy. The Roots have performed at various music festivals, including Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival.

History

The Roots were formed in 1987 by Tariq Trotter and Ahmir Thompson, who met while attending Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts. The group's early sound was influenced by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, The Cold Crush Brothers, and Run-DMC. They released their debut album, Organix, in 1993, which was followed by Do You Want More?!!!??! in 1995. The Roots gained widespread recognition with their 1999 album Things Fall Apart, which featured the hit single You Got Me, a collaboration with Erykah Badu and Jill Scott. They have also worked with other notable artists, including DJ Jazzy Jeff, The Pharcyde, and A Tribe Called Quest.

Music Style

The Roots' music style is a unique blend of hip hop, jazz, funk, and soul music, with influences from The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and Sly and the Family Stone. Their sound is characterized by Tariq Trotter's lyrical complexity and Ahmir Thompson's innovative drumming style, which has been compared to that of John Bonham and Neil Peart. The group's music often incorporates live instrumentation, with contributions from musicians such as Kamal Gray, Captain Kirk Douglas, and Damon Bryson. They have also been influenced by other genres, including rock music, electronic music, and classical music, and have collaborated with artists such as The Mars Volta, TV on the Radio, and The Decemberists.

Band Members

The Roots' current lineup includes Tariq Trotter (vocals), Ahmir Thompson (drums), Kamal Gray (keyboards), Captain Kirk Douglas (guitar), and Damon Bryson (saxophone). Former members include Malik B., Rahzel, and Scott Storch. The group has also collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including John Legend, Erykah Badu, Jay-Z, and Kanye West. They have also worked with other notable producers, including Questlove, J Dilla, and The Neptunes.

Discography

The Roots have released 14 studio albums, including Organix (1993), Do You Want More?!!!??! (1995), Illadelph Halflife (1996), Things Fall Apart (1999), Phrenology (2002), The Tipping Point (2004), Game Theory (2006), Rising Down (2008), How I Got Over (2010), Undun (2011), ...And Then You Shoot Your Cousin (2014), and End Game (unreleased). They have also released several live albums, including The Roots Come Alive (1999) and Nagoya Blue Note (2004). The group's music has been featured in various films and television shows, including The Wire, Entourage, and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.

Awards and Accolades

The Roots have won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards and two MTV Video Music Awards. They have been nominated for several other awards, including BET Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and Soul Train Music Awards. The group has also been recognized for their philanthropic efforts, particularly in their hometown of Philadelphia, where they have supported organizations such as The Philadelphia Youth Orchestra and The Boys and Girls Clubs of America. They have also been involved in various charity events, including Live 8 and The Hurricane Katrina Benefit Concert.

Tours and Live Performances

The Roots have toured extensively throughout their career, performing at various music festivals and venues around the world. They have shared the stage with artists such as Jay-Z, Kanye West, and The Black Eyed Peas, and have also performed with orchestras such as the Philadelphia Orchestra and the New York Pops. The group's live shows are known for their high energy and improvisational style, with Tariq Trotter and Ahmir Thompson often engaging in freestyle rap battles and jam sessions. They have also performed at various NBA All-Star Games and NFL Kickoff events, and have been the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon since 2009. The Roots have also collaborated with other artists on live performances, including Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder.

Category:American hip hop groups