The Roots Look Back on Iconic History and Tease 'Endgame' Album Ahead of Hall of Fame Honor

The Roots are taking a well-deserved victory lap as they prepare for their latest major career milestone. Ahead of their formal induction into the Billboard Hip-Hop Hall of Fame, the legendary Philadelphia rap collective opened Billboard House during R&B/Hip-Hop Week in New York City. Founding members Questlove and Black Thought sat down at Ludlow House for a wide-ranging 30-minute panel, reflecting on their journey from street buskers to musical royalty. The long-time collaborators spent part of the conversation reminiscing about their high school origins and mutual respect. Black Thought credited Questlove with changing his entire perspective on emceeing. He explained that although he had been rapping for years before meeting his bandmate, Questlove’s distinct sense of rhythm and beat-making precision—whether tapping on desks or beating his chest—elevated his approach to lyricism and structure from the very start.

With Eminem At The Grammys The pair also looked back at landmark moments that shifted their trajectory in the mainstream eye. The discussion highlighted their explosive 2003 Grammy Awards collaboration alongside Eminem. According to the band, taking the stage with the Detroit rap icon during that broadcast served as an early catalyst for their reputation as a premier live act, laying the groundwork for their eventual transition into television staples.