The Roots have long been a cornerstone of Hip Hop, carving out a unique space within the genre through their masterful blend of live instrumentation and thought-provoking lyricism. Formed in Philadelphia in 1987 by emcee Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter and drummer Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, the group quickly became known for their fusion of rap, jazz, soul, and funk. Their sound stands in stark contrast to the sample-driven production that dominated ’90s Hip Hop, favoring instead the rich, organic textures of live instruments. This commitment to authenticity has helped The Roots not only maintain their relevance but also consistently push Hip Hop in new directions.
With a catalog that spans decades, it’s no easy task selecting just 15 of their top songs. From their early work on Organix to the conceptual brilliance of Undun, The Roots’ music is filled with layered themes, intricate wordplay, and a deep understanding of the world they’re speaking to. Albums like Do You Want More?!!!??!, Illadelph Halflife, and Things Fall Apart represent some of their finest work, melding insightful social commentary with tracks that are as musically complex as they are emotionally resonant. Over time, they’ve crafted songs that explore everything from personal struggles to larger societal issues, always with an unwavering commitment to the art form.
This list is just a glimpse into the world of The Roots, and while we’ve selected some of the most memorable moments from their storied career, it’s impossible to capture all the brilliance they’ve contributed to Hip Hop. We hope these 15 tracks give you a deeper understanding of their impact, but feel free to share your own favorite cuts in the comments. The Roots’ music continues to inspire, evolve, and challenge what it means to be a Hip Hop artist, proving their place at the very top of the genre.
Also read: Essential Rap Songs: Top 15 Lists For Every Influential Hip Hop Act
15. Pass The Popcorn (1993)
“Yeah, The Square Roots be the setters of examples / Finding rhythm in the static of your samples…”
“Pass The Popcorn,” from The Roots’ 1993 debut Organix, is a standout example of the group’s early fusion of live instrumentation and organic Hip Hop. The track, initially released as a single to promote the album, demonstrates the chemistry between the trio—Black Thought, Malik B., and a rare verse from ?uestlove, who also handles the drums. The title itself seems to use popcorn as a playful metaphor for passing the mic, emphasizing the back-and-forth flow between the MCs.
While Organix is rough around the edges, this track highlights the group’s potential, mixing jazz, funk, and the emerging sounds of ’90s Hip Hop. The song’s dynamic beat, crafted by ?uestlove, is a precursor to the smooth yet complex rhythms the band would later perfect. “Pass The Popcorn” remains a solid reminder of The Roots’ early days, offering a glimpse into the future greatness that would define their career.
14. Boom! (2004)
“Y’all hopeless, and I’m a little better than dopest / Far from a brand new kid to show biz…”
“Boom!” from The Roots’ The Tipping Point (2004) is a masterful tribute to two of Hip Hop’s most legendary emcees: Big Daddy Kane and Kool G Rap. Black Thought channels their distinct styles, seamlessly adopting their flows and diction on the second and third verses. If you weren’t paying close attention, you’d swear it was actually Kane and G Rap spitting bars. This track is proof of Black Thought’s unmatched versatility and lyrical precision—he’s not just rapping, he’s embodying these legends.
The track’s boom-bap beat, paired with Black Thought’s sharp delivery, creates a raw, throwback vibe that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s a perfect example of The Roots’ ability to pay homage to the past while keeping their sound relevant. “Boom!” is a highlight from an often underrated album, demonstrating Black Thought’s technical brilliance and the group’s knack for creatively bending genres.
13. The Lesson Pt 1 (1995)
“Lyrically versatile / My rap definition is wild…”
“The Lesson Pt. 1” from Do You Want More?!!!??! (1995) is a prime example of raw, freestyle-driven Hip Hop. The track features a young Dice Raw making his debut with The Roots, and he makes an unforgettable entrance. Black Thought starts off with a sharp verse before handing it over to Dice Raw, who, at just 15 years old, delivers a standout performance. Both emcees spit pure, unfiltered bars over a stripped-back beatbox backdrop courtesy of Rahzel, keeping the focus entirely on lyricism and flow. The simplicity of the beat allows the talent of the emcees to shine through, with the track feeling like a direct, no-nonsense guide to classic Hip Hop. Dice Raw’s verse sets the stage for what would become a long-standing, impactful partnership within the group.
12. Clock With No Hands (2006)
“Yeah, sitting in the staircase, holding back tears / Looking over mad years worth of photographs / Pictures of some places I ain’t never going back / Some people I used to love, why I ain’t show them that?”
“Clock With No Hands,” from Game Theory (2006), is a deeply reflective track where Black Thought contemplates the passage of time, the complexities of relationships, and personal regrets. The haunting beat, which samples The Pharcyde’s “Runnin’,” creates a perfect backdrop for Thought’s introspective lyrics. He grapples with the weight of lost time and broken connections, confronting the realities of his environment and his own internal struggles. Mercedes Martinez’s soulful chorus reinforces the track’s emotional depth, expressing the isolation and self-reliance that often accompany life’s challenges. In his verses, Black Thought paints a vivid picture of fractured friendships and the difficulty of navigating life without clear direction, likening it to a “clock with no hands.” The track’s raw honesty and somber tone make it one of the standout moments on Game Theory, showcasing The Roots’ ability to merge deep lyricism with captivating, layered production.
11. 75 Bars (Black's Reconstruction) (2008)
“I’m in the field with a shield and a spear n**** / I’m in your girl with her heels in the air n****”
“75 Bars (Black’s Reconstruction)” off Rising Down is Black Thought at his finest. The track is a relentless display of lyrical prowess, with Thought dropping a fierce, one-take verse that lasts nearly the entire song. His flow is unbreakable, attacking each bar with precision and urgency, painting vivid pictures of street life, personal struggles, and his own elevated status. There’s an undeniable hunger in his delivery, as he reflects on both the chaotic and triumphant aspects of his existence. The raw intensity of his words cuts deep, and while some may find the track’s blunt approach a bit too direct, it’s impossible to ignore how effectively Thought captures the weight of his thoughts. The beat, sparse and haunting, serves as the perfect backdrop for his unfiltered thoughts. In a track that never lets up, Black Thought reminds us why he’s one of Hip Hop’s most respected figures.
10. You Got Me (1999)
“Somebody told me that this planet was small / We used to live in the same building on the same floor / And never met before until I’m overseas on tour / And peeped this Ethiopian queen from Philly taking classes abroad…”
“You Got Me,” from Things Fall Apart, is one of The Roots’ most iconic tracks, blending raw Hip Hop with soulful, emotional depth. A Grammy-winning song in 2000 for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, it features a smooth, unforgettable hook by Erykah Badu, setting the tone for Black Thought’s reflective verses. The song tells a story of love and loyalty, with Black Thought navigating the complexities of a relationship while on the road, and Eve delivering a memorable guest verse, offering her perspective on love’s ups and downs.
The track’s lyrics explore trust, communication, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional lives. Co-written with Jill Scott, it was originally intended for her but was reworked with Badu’s contribution, creating a harmonious blend of Hip Hop and soul. “You Got Me” remains a standout, embodying The Roots’ ability to merge lyrical depth with mainstream appeal. It’s a classic, smooth love song with a touch of raw reality.
9. Distortion To Static (1995)
“Now, go get your dictionary and your Pictionary / Cause much affliction with my diction friction slips and carries / Words and herds like some cattle in the steeple / People, there’s no equal, or no sequel / So policies, of equalities, get abolished / Demolished, distortion of the static’s gettin polished / Urges of splurge and words will just be merged / Together, damn it’s quite clever, however…”
“Distortion to Static,” from Do You Want More?!!!??!, stands out as one of The Roots’ most energetic tracks. Black Thought and Malik B take turns dropping intricate verses over a hard-hitting, funky beat. Black Thought delivers a rapid-fire barrage of wordplay, while Malik B follows up with his own sharp, confident flow. The track pulses with a raw intensity, with distorted beats that fit the title perfectly.
The lyrics feature clever references to the group’s influences, along with sharp commentary on the state of rap. Black Thought’s verse is packed with thought-provoking bars, while Malik B brings his own unique style to the track, adding to its bold energy. The song feels like a statement—an undeniable display of their lyrical prowess and their deep connection to Hip Hop. “Distortion to Static” is a powerful example of The Roots’ distinct sound, blending raw beats with impressive lyricism to create something that is both compelling and memorable.
8. Concerto Of The Desperado (1996)
“What?? This how we do it in the year for nine-six / With this deliberate attack on pointless rap sh** / Breakin MC’s down to fractions, tell your squadron / It’s time to go to war, Respond/React”
“Concerto of the Desperado” from Illadelph Halflife is a prime example of Black Thought’s lyrical mastery. From the opening lines, Thought attacks with relentless precision, effortlessly dismantling the fake and wack elements of the rap game. The track’s punchy beat and aggressive flow perfectly match his no-holds-barred delivery, making it an anthem for Hip Hop purists.
Black Thought doesn’t hold back on this track, using metaphors and wordplay to dismantle his competition, comparing himself to a maestro and a warrior. His verses are packed with vivid imagery and intricate rhyme schemes, displaying his ability to both engage and intimidate with his lyrics. Malik B adds to the intensity, reinforcing the track’s unflinching approach to real rap.
The hook, “The Concerto of the Desperado,” reinforces the theme of rejecting fake artistry in favor of raw, authentic Hip Hop. This track is a highlight of Illadelph Halflife, blending thought-provoking lyricism with hard-hitting beats, and remains one of the best examples of Black Thought’s formidable talent.
7. Act Too (The Love Of My Life) (1999)
“Hip Hop, you the love of my life and that’s true / When I was handling the sh** I had to do / It was all for you, from the door for you / Speak through you, getting paper on tour for you / From the start, Thought was down by law for you / Used to hit up every corner store wall for you / We ripped sh** and kept it hardcore for you / I remember late nights, steady rocking the mic / Hip Hop you the love of my life…”
“Act Too (The Love of My Life)” from The Roots’ Things Fall Apart is a poetic celebration of Hip Hop, a genre that has shaped the artists’ lives and careers. With Black Thought leading the charge, the track explores the deep, multifaceted relationship between the emcees and their art. The soulful production pairs effortlessly with Black Thought’s reflective lyrics, as he describes his journey from youthful enthusiasm to a profound, unwavering love for Hip Hop. The guest verse from Common further enriches the narrative, drawing parallels between his own love for the genre and the complexities it entails.
Common’s verse echoes the feelings of a tumultuous relationship, as he relates to Hip Hop in both personal and universal ways. His reflections, alongside Black Thought’s vivid storytelling, give the song a timeless quality, capturing the challenges and the fulfillment that come with pursuing a passion. The track is a true homage to the culture, further cementing The Roots as not just a group but a crucial part of Hip Hop’s evolving story.
6. Clones (1996)
“I use the mic to slap you in the face and erase your taste / Disgrace your date put your title to waste / Dominant lyrical grace, from a place called wild / Illadelph Isle Pensy, that’s the residency / Consistent currency, my pockets never empty…”
“Clones,” a standout from Illadelph Halflife, sees The Roots at their sharpest, with Black Thought, Malik B, and Dice Raw delivering hard-hitting verses that leave no room for pretense. The track is an all-out assault on fake emcees, who the group accuses of imitating real talent while failing to make any meaningful impact. The energy is raw and unapologetic, as the trio uses their razor-sharp lyrical prowess to call out the phonies in the game.
Each verse is a testament to the authenticity The Roots champion, with Black Thought’s precise, aggressive delivery taking aim at anyone pretending to be a part of the culture. Dice Raw adds an extra layer of intensity, his vivid imagery and fierce demeanor creating a visceral experience for the listener. Malik B’s contribution is no less powerful, as he emphasizes the grit of their Philadelphia roots.
The track not only highlights the group’s lyrical skill but also serves as a declaration of their dedication to preserving the true essence of Hip Hop, unfiltered and untamed.
5. Double Trouble ft Mos Def (1999)
“Well it’s like smack the track up and leave dents in it / The vocalist, busting this blunt instrument spit / The magnificent, rappers run from it / All fly girls’ nipples and toes numb from it…”
“Double Trouble” from Things Fall Apart is a masterclass in lyrical prowess, featuring two of Hip Hop’s finest: Black Thought and Mos Def. This track stands out as one of the album’s highlights, representing the era of collaboration that defined the late ’90s, as Questlove notes in the liner notes, with the group recording alongside artists like Common and Erykah Badu at Electric Lady Studios.
Originally intended to feature a verse from Talib Kweli, the song ultimately became a tight duet between Black Thought and Mos Def, paying homage to the iconic “Double Trouble” from the WildStyle movie. The chemistry between the two emcees is undeniable, as they trade verses with a fluidity that highlights their lyrical agility and mutual respect for the craft.
The song’s production is raw, with a crisp, boom-bap beat that complements the emcees’ sharp delivery. “Double Trouble” isn’t just a display of technical skill—it’s a celebration of Hip Hop’s golden era, where lyricism and flow reign supreme.
4. Thought @ Work (2002)
“My words worth like Barnes & Noble / Spit hot flames that’ll harm your vocal / Spit thought name I’m a bomb your local / Neighborness, for a ten-mile radius / Well every ghetto craving this new anthem / My brain unstable and I’m just too handsome / I bang with the best around / Who can test the ground when I finesse the sound…”
“Thought @ Work” from Phrenology (2002) is a perfect showcase of Black Thought’s unrelenting lyricism, embodying the essence of classic Hip Hop while pushing the genre forward. This track finds Black Thought in his prime, effortlessly flexing his poetic prowess over an old-school breakbeat that immediately sets the tone. His delivery is electric—punchlines fly, historical references drop, and intricate wordplay glistens, as he stakes his claim as one of the best to ever do it.
The song pulses with the energy of a live, in-the-park jam, bringing to life that raw, vibrant feeling of Hip Hop’s early days. You can almost hear the rumbling of large speakers, the sound echoing through the block as the crowd bounces to the rhythm. Black Thought’s performance is a master class in cadence, control, and lyrical dexterity, seamlessly weaving complex rhymes that highlight his intellectual depth while never losing sight of the crowd’s energy.
“Thought @ Work” is a celebration of everything that makes The Roots special—both as a band and as a platform for Black Thought’s brilliant lyrical vision. A true moment in Hip Hop’s evolution.
3. Mellow My Man (1995)
“The skits I kick flows like catfish / And got many emcees on the blacklist / I’m sharp as a cactus plus, quick to bust gymnastic tactics / Us, Roots is really true to that rap sh**”
“Mellow My Man” is a standout track from The Roots’ second album, Do You Want More?!!!??! (1995), and it perfectly encapsulates the band’s unique blend of organic Hip Hop and jazz. The song exudes an effortless cool, with Black Thought and Malik B’s interplay flowing like a conversation between two old friends. The smooth, laid-back beat, punctuated by live instrumentation, sets a mood that feels both classic and contemporary—an instant invitation into the immersive world The Roots create with their music.
Black Thought’s verses are packed with sharp wordplay, historical nods, and an undeniable swagger, showcasing his early mastery of lyricism. His delivery is crisp and confident, maintaining an understated yet powerful presence throughout. Malik B’s contribution complements Thought’s style with an equally intricate flow and punchy lines, bringing a gritty edge to the track’s relaxed atmosphere.
The song’s relaxed vibe, paired with its playful back-and-forth between the two emcees, elevates it to a level of effortlessly cool, while maintaining the technical brilliance that The Roots are known for. “Mellow My Man” exemplifies what The Roots do best: creating Hip Hop that’s rooted in live instrumentation, intelligent lyricism, and a deeply groovy sound, all wrapped up in a vibe that’s both organic and timeless. It’s the perfect tone-setter for what would be a groundbreaking career.
2. The Next Movement (1999)
“I tilt my crown, then blow down a diamond kiss / You need to buy a CD and stop rewinding this / I’m the finalist, shining like a rugged amethyst / And at your music conference, I’m the panelist / Listen close to my poetry, I examine this / Like an analyst, to see if you can handle this…”
“The Next Movement,” from Things Fall Apart (1999), is a defining track in The Roots’ discography, combining swaggering lyricism with infectious energy. Led by Black Thought’s sharp, commanding flow, this song epitomizes the group’s signature blend of live instrumentation and raw, skillful emceeing. Black Thought kicks things off with a commanding verse that oozes confidence, declaring himself the “Dalai Lama of the mic” and asserting his mastery of the craft. His braggadocious delivery is complemented by DJ Jazzy Jeff’s turntable magic, adding an extra layer of sonic depth to the track.
The chorus, with its repetition of “hot music,” serves as both a declaration and an invitation to groove. The energy of the track is undeniable, embodying the spirit of the late ’90s Hip Hop scene while maintaining The Roots’ commitment to organic sounds and live instruments. Jazzyfatnastees contribute background vocals that add a soulful, smooth touch to the otherwise hard-hitting beat.
The track’s standout moment comes in its effortless blend of party vibes and streetwise lyricism, making it both an anthem for the Hip Hop heads and a crossover hit. “The Next Movement” is a celebration of The Roots’ journey as artists—unafraid to flex their skills while staying true to their roots, both musically and lyrically. This track remains one of their best examples of confidence and creativity in their storied career.
1. What They Do (1996)
“The principles of true Hip Hop have been forsaken, it’s all contractual and about money makin’”
Released as the third single from Illadelph Halflife in 1996, “What They Do” is one of The Roots’ sharpest critiques of the commercialization of Hip Hop. Wrapped in a soulful, chilled-out groove, the track delivers a message as relevant now as it was nearly three decades ago: the industry’s obsession with image and materialism has stripped Hip Hop of its true artistic roots. With a signature hook sung by Raphael Saadiq, the song’s mellow tone contrasts powerfully with its biting commentary on the world of mainstream rap.
Black Thought’s verses navigate the hypocrisy of the industry, calling out the “pretend-to-be cats” and the “fraudulent” acts that dominate radio and video. His delivery, as always, is effortless and precise, but there’s a palpable frustration in his words, as he speaks about how far some will go for fame, including bending their principles and their craft. The track critiques the rise of style over substance in Hip Hop while urging listeners to stay true to the art form.
Saadiq’s guitar work, reminiscent of soul legends like Curtis Mayfield, adds a timeless quality to the track, while the video – with its clever use of subtitles – humorously critiques the ever-growing “bling bling” culture that was overtaking the genre at the time. This blend of social commentary, wit, and impeccable musicianship makes “What They Do” a standout piece in The Roots’ catalog. It’s a song that’s as much about style as it is about substance—perfectly capturing The Roots’ spirit of challenging norms while delivering a memorable groove.