You might know who they are because of cute viral videos with Miley and Mariah. You might know who they are because of all-time great track “The Seed 2.0”, or you might know them because Questlove makes Beyonce look lazy. If you’re lucky, you know The Roots from their esteemed, Grammy-award winning, 25-year body of work. We all love them on Jimmy Fallon, but now your opportunity to see them live in the flesh is here. The Roots will be playing The Warfield October 21st. Only go if you love supreme musicianship and intelligent lyrics, though.
Formed in 1987 (1987!) in Philadelphia, The Roots have been a consistent musical force on the edge of mainstream popularity for decades. While the aforementioned “Seed” is their biggest hit, the band has put out record after record with their sometimes 10-piece outfit. Their lead, Black Thought, is the kind of rapper that many aspire to be: relentless flow, impressive vocabulary, and powerful message combined. The band’s most recent effort “…and then you shoot your cousin” is a poignant statement on the state of inner city life today.
While the message challenges your head, the music will ask you to move: as tight as ever, the instrumentalists in the band craft smooth, R&B-inspired hooks with nods to reggae and rock and roll mixed in for good measure. And of course, the unforgettable genius that is Questlove keeps the beat both literally and spiritually for the band’s output. You’ll think, but you’ll also groove. It’s the ideal combination. The Warfield is hosting this incredible live act (recently named one of the best bands to see by Rolling Stone, by the way) on October 21st.
The Roots @ The Warfield
October 21, 2015
8:00 PM (Doors at 7:00)
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