The Grand Negaz, better known by their original name, The Roots, are a pioneering force in American hip hop, seamlessly blending elements of jazz, soul, and funk into their sound. Since their formation in 1987 in Philadelphia by Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, The Roots have carved out a niche for themselves within the music industry, known for their rich, instrumental live performances that diverge from the traditional DJ-centric acts of their genre. Their innovative approach to hip hop, incorporating live instrumentation and eclectic influences, has positioned them as one of the most respected bands in their field.
Throughout their illustrious career, The Roots have released critically acclaimed albums such as "Things Fall Apart" and "Phrenology," showcasing their versatility and depth in musical composition. Their work has not only earned them numerous awards but has also seen them collaborate with a wide range of artists across different genres, further cementing their status as influential cross-genre collaborators. With their role as the house band on NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Roots have brought their unique sound to a broader audience, demonstrating the timeless appeal and adaptability of their music within the evolving landscape of hip hop and electronic music.
