#416 of 500
· Rolling Stone
“The back half of the RS500 is where the interesting debates live. Things Fall Apart is The Roots's statement piece (1999) — locked in from the first groove. The original pressing does justice to a record that defined its corner of hip-hop/rap.”
The Roots are a Philadelphia-based hip-hop band formed in 1987 by Questlove (Ahmir Thompson) and Black Thought (Tariq Trotter). Beginning as a live instrumental group, they evolved into one of hip-hop's most innovative acts, known for blending live instrumentation with rap and funk elements. Their breakthrough came with the 1999 album 'Things Fall Apart,' followed by acclaimed releases like 'Phrenology' (2002) and 'Game Theory' (2006). The group has maintained creative consistency across their catalog while serving as the house band for NBC's 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' since 2009, introducing their energetic live sound to mainstream audiences. Their discography spans over 30 years, establishing them as pioneers of live hip-hop production.
Style
The Roots blend hip-hop with live instrumentation including drums, bass, and horns, creating a funk-influenced, jazz-informed sound that prioritizes musicianship and organic production. Their style emphasizes complex arrangements, soulful grooves, and socially conscious lyricism.
Significance
The Roots are essential for vinyl collectors interested in hip-hop's instrumental and live performance traditions. Their records showcase exceptional audio quality and production depth that benefit from analog playback, making them sought-after titles for collectors valuing musicianship and sonic clarity in hip-hop.
The Low End Theory
A Tribe Called Quest
A quintessential jazz-influenced hip-hop album with live instrumentation and sophisticated production that shares The Roots' commitment to musicianship and organic sound.
The Infamous
Mobb Deep
Offers sophisticated boom-bap production with darker, more experimental beats while maintaining the sample-heavy, live-feel production aesthetic that collectors of Things Fall Apart would appreciate.
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