The Roots

The Roots

alternative rock, funk, hip-hop, jazz

United States Est. 1987

"The Roots create a dense tapestry of rhythm and melody, driven by intricate grooves and dynamic interplay between instruments that elevate each track into an immersive journey."

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Begin with The Roots…

Phrenology

Phrenology

2002
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Career Arc

The Roots's discography from 1993 to 2014

1993 2003 2014
Organix (1993) From the Ground Up (1994) Do You Want More?!!!??! (1995) Illadelph Halflife (1996) Things Fall Apart (1999) The Roots Come Alive (1999) The Legendary (1999) The Next Movement (1999) Phrenology (2002) The Seed (2003) The Tipping Point (2004) Game Theory (2006) Rising Down (2008) How I Got Over (2010) Undun (2011) …And Then You Shoot Your... (2014)
The Roots matter because they have redefined what it means to be a hip-hop band, merging the raw energy of live instrumentation with the lyrical depth of conscious storytelling.
The Roots matter because they have redefined what it means to be a hip-hop band, merging the raw energy of live instrumentation with the lyrical depth of conscious storytelling. Their approach has shifted how audiences engage with hip-hop, inviting listeners to consider the genre as a platform for social commentary and emotional exploration, rather than just party anthems. By fostering a sense of authenticity and musicianship, they have paved the way for future artists who seek to blend genres and challenge conventions. Their innovation lies in their commitment to live performance, where every show is a unique experience shaped by spontaneous interaction among band members and the audience. This dedication not only enriches their studio recordings but also creates an electric atmosphere during concerts that blurs the line between artist and audience. The Roots' ability to navigate various musical landscapes while maintaining a cohesive sound illustrates their mastery over both composition and improvisation. In their songwriting, The Roots often explore themes of identity, resilience, and social justice through a voice that balances sincerity with irony. Their lyrics weave intricate narratives that invite listeners into gritty realities while offering moments of introspection and hope. The storytelling is layered, often reflecting personal experiences against broader societal issues, creating a relatable yet profound listening experience.

Full discography

The Roots's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

16 releases • 12 albums • 2 EPS • 1993–2014
Type:

EPs ()

The Legendary album by The Roots

The Legendary

1999

From the Ground Up album by The Roots

From the Ground Up

1994

Singles ()

The Seed album by The Roots

The Seed

2003

The Next Movement album by The Roots

The Next Movement

1999

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Timeline

How their sound evolved over time

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Roots sound like?

The Roots create a dense tapestry of rhythm and melody, driven by intricate grooves and dynamic interplay between instruments that elevate each track into an immersive journey. Rooted in alternative rock and funk. Start with Things Fall Apart.

What is the best The Roots album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Things Fall Apart" (1999). It's the most representative of what makes The Roots worth hearing.

Who is The Roots for?

If you're into alternative rock and funk, The Roots is worth your time. The Roots create a dense tapestry of rhythm and melody, driven by intricate grooves and dynamic interplay between instruments that elevate each track into an immersive journey.

How many albums does The Roots have?

The Roots has 16 releases in their discography, including 12 albums and 2 EPs.

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