-The Roots Picnic Review-
The legendary Roots held their 6th Annual Roots Picnic at the Festival Pier in Philadelphia. The picnic which was sold out focuses primarily on the underground music scene and was hosted by tv personality Amanda Diva. Radio One’s own DJ Damage was the official mix master between music sets.
In comparison to previous years all of the performances were compacted into one day. The day started with pianist Robert Glasper backed by vocalist Casey Benjamin. The two performed “Ah Yeah” and an updated version of R&B icon Sade’s “Cherish the Day.” Southern rapper Trinidad James brought the ruckus with “All Gold Everything” and “Turn Up” which caused the crowd to jump around. Retro singer Solange performed the heartfelt “Tony” and “Losing You” occasionally stopping to dance to her own tunes. Rap newcomer Joey Bada$$ proved that age is only a number when he took the stage to perform “Survival Tactics” and even paid homage to the late Capital STEEZ. Rap and producer duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis performed their hit singles “Thrift Shop” and “Same Love” for those on a budget and in love. Old soul guitarist Gary Clark Jr. performed “Black and Blue” and “Please Come Home” almost reminiscent of a young Jimmy Hendrix.
Lastly, the Roots performed from their extensive music catalogue including “The Next Movement” and “Break You Off” before introducing the night’s headliner Naughty by Nature. Despite rapid rumors about the two group members having an fallout Vinny and Treach never missed a beat. Naughty by Nature were twenty years strong as they performed their old school hits “O.P.P.” and “Hip Hop Hooray.” Not to be outdone, the Roots came back out with music surprise guests Marsha Ambrosius and Meek Mills.
The Roots Picnic was indeed memorable. Fans from the tri-state and beyond came to see some of music’s rising stars. The only thing that was hotter than the weather was the Roots Picnic stage.
-Written by Najah Goldstein (Photos provided by Major Goldstein)
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