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The Roots
hip-hop band · rap collective
3 stories · latest Sep 11, 2026 · Music
About The Roots
The Roots are an iconic Philadelphia hip-hop band and rap collective co-founded by drummer and bandleader Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson alongside lyricist Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter. Beginning as high school friends and street buskers, the group built a decades-long career spanning studio recordings, daily television commitments, and major festival performances.
During a recent packed summer season, the band balanced daily late-night broadcast duties with festival stages and public appearances. Their summer run featured their annual multi-day Roots Picnic celebration in Philadelphia, which brought out major guest performers including headliners Erykah Badu and hip-hop icon Jay-Z.
The group continues to receive high-level music industry honors, including recognition at the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players ceremony and an induction into the Billboard Hip-Hop Hall of Fame. During a panel in New York City ahead of their Hall of Fame honor, the founding members reflected on their journey and teased an upcoming album titled Endgame.
- Coverage emphasizes The Roots' transition into elder statesmen of hip-hop as they receive legacy honors like the Billboard Hip-Hop Hall of Fame induction.
- Media reports highlight the band's work ethic, balancing daily television commitments with large-scale live performances and festival hosting.
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The Roots timeline
Aug 21, 2026
Questlove reflected on an action-packed summer featuring daily TV duties and the annual Roots Picnic with Jay-Z.
Questlove Needs a Nap After The Roots’ Craziest Summer EverSep 10, 2026
Questlove and Black Thought hosted an NYC panel ahead of their Billboard Hip-Hop Hall of Fame induction and teased their Endgame album.
The Roots Look Back on Iconic History and Tease 'Endgame' Album Ahead of Hall of Fame HonorSep 11, 2026
The Roots were honored at Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players ceremony alongside other industry icons.
Skippa Scores Big With Caribbean Rising Star Trophy at Billboard Power Players Event
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The Roots: your questions
Who founded The Roots?
The Roots were co-founded by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson and Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter.
What is the title of The Roots' upcoming album?
The band has teased an upcoming album titled Endgame.
What festival do The Roots host?
The Roots host the annual Roots Picnic, a multi-day celebration held in Philadelphia.
What major honor are The Roots receiving?
The band is being inducted into the Billboard Hip-Hop Hall of Fame.