The Roots

The Roots, an influential American hip hop band, were established in 1987 by the dynamic duo of Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and drummer Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson in the vibrant city of Philadelphia. Renowned for their innovative approach, The Roots seamlessly blend live instrumentation with hip hop, creating a unique sound that has garnered them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

As the house band for NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Roots have become a staple of late-night television, having previously held the same role on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon from 2009 to 2014. The current lineup features talented musicians including Captain Kirk Douglas on guitar, Mark Kelley on bass, and James Poyser on keyboards, among others, each contributing to the band's rich musical tapestry.

Celebrated for their jazzy and eclectic style, The Roots have been recognized as one of the top hip hop groups of all time, with ThoughtCo ranking them seventh on their list of the 25 Best Hip-Hop Groups. This accolade highlights their status as "Hip-hop's first legitimate band," a testament to their pioneering spirit and artistic integrity.

Beyond their core musical endeavors, members of The Roots are actively involved in various side projects, including record production and acting, and frequently collaborate with other artists, further showcasing their versatility and commitment to the music industry.