
Musicians & Bands · R&B
Book The Roots
The Roots are a Philadelphia hip-hop band founded in 1987 by the MC Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter together with the drummer Questlove, Ahmir Thompson. Since 2014 they have served as the house band for NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, a role they held on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon from 2009 to 2014. Their television lineup includes guitarist Captain Kirk Douglas, bassist Mark Kelley, keyboardists James Poyser and Stro Elliot, saxophonist Ian Hendrickson-Smith, sousaphone player Damon "Tuba Gooding Jr." Bryson and trumpeter Dave Guy. The group won a 1999 Grammy in the rap category for duos and groups, then took home Grammys for Best Traditional R&B Performance and Best R&B Album in 2010. In 2011 they added NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Album and for Outstanding Duo or Group. A full live band that can move from rap to soul to funk, The Roots bring musicianship and stage chemistry few hip-hop acts can match.
- Genres: jazz, alternative rock and rock
- Active since 1987
- Formed in Philadelphia
- Honors: Grammy
- Members have included: Questlove, Black Thought, Hub
- Labels: Universal Music Group, Interscope Records
- Category: Musician
Estimated fee range
How much does The Roots cost?
Booking The Roots is estimated at $250K–$500K. That figure is for planning only. A confirmed offer depends on the date, market and event, and travel and production are typically on top.
*Estimate only. Not a quote. Actual fees depend on date, location, travel and event details.
Video

The Roots perform 'The Next Movement' LIVE | Next at the Kennedy Center | PBS · PBS Watch on YouTube
Career timeline
Milestones
- Released the album Organix
- Released the album Illadelph Halflife
- Received the Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group
- Released the album Things Fall Apart
- Released the album Phrenology
- Released the album The Tipping Point
- Received the Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Performance
- Received the Grammy Award for Best R&B Album
- Received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Album
- Received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Duo or Group
Similar talent
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FAQ
Booking The Roots: questions
What is the typical fee range for The Roots?
Our estimate puts The Roots in the $250K–$500K range (estimate).
How do I send a booking inquiry for The Roots?
Use the availability form on this page with your date, city, event type and budget range. Altus Entertainment contacts The Roots' representatives and replies within one business day; there is no cost to ask.
What is The Roots' booking fee?
The estimated booking fee for The Roots is $250K–$500K (estimate).
How much does it cost to book The Roots?
Plan for an estimated $250K–$500K for the fee itself, plus travel, production and hospitality. Altus Entertainment will confirm the real number for your date.
Who is The Roots' booking agent?
c-e-l-e-b.com is operated by Altus Entertainment, a celebrity booking agency. Altus does not claim to represent The Roots; it contacts The Roots' representatives on your behalf to check availability and negotiate terms.
How do I book The Roots?
Send the inquiry form with your event date, location, budget range and event type. Altus Entertainment responds within one business day.
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