The 2024 Roots Picnic returns to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at The Mann in Fairmount Park on June 1-2. The two-day festival features a star-studded lineup of R&B, soul, and hip-hop acts. Lil Wayne and The Roots will perform a headlining set to celebrate the rap legend’s hometown, New Orleans, with additional appearances by fellow NOLA natives
Curtis Mayfield (1942-1999) was a pioneering figure in American music, renowned for his distinctive voice, masterful songwriting, and influential contributions to the genres of soul, funk, and R&B. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Mayfield began his musical journey at a young age, singing in church choirs and learning to play various instruments. In the late 1950s
James Brown, often referred to as the “Godfather of Soul,” was a pioneering musician, singer, songwriter, and dancer who revolutionized the world of music. Born in 1933 in South Carolina, Brown rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music. Known for his electrifying stage presence
The Temptations, one of the most iconic groups in the history of soul music, emerged in the early 1960s in Detroit, Michigan. Known for their impeccable harmonies, dynamic stage presence, and timeless hits, they became synonymous with the Motown sound and left an indelible mark on popular music. Founded by Otis Williams in 1960, The
David Ruffin, born Davis Eli Ruffin on January 18, 1941, was an American soul singer and musician best known for his tenure as the lead vocalist for The Temptations. With his distinctive raspy voice, unparalleled vocal range, and captivating stage presence, Ruffin left an indelible mark on the world of music. As the lead singer
Waylon Jennings, born in 1937 in Littlefield, Texas, emerged as one of the most influential figures in the history of country music. Known for his distinctive baritone voice, outlaw image, and rebellious attitude, Jennings left an indelible mark on the genre. Jennings’ career began in the late 1950s, initially as a bassist for Buddy Holly.
Steve Lacy has achieved a new milestone on Spotify. His hit single “Bad Habit” has amassed over one billion streams on the platform. It’s Lacy’s second song to hit over one billion streams on Spotify, following 2017’s “Dark Red.” The latter track crossed the billion mark in October 2023. Lacy produced “Bad Habit” and co-wrote
Avery*Sunshine has a lot on her mind and she lays it all out on her new single “I Wonder.” Over a smooth production, helmed by Jamison Ross and Dana “BigDane” Johnson, Sunshine ponders the longevity of a relationship. “Sometimes I wonder / Could it be a spell that I’m under / Could it be this
Chris Brown has more new music on the way. The R&B star has announced his plans to release 11:11 (Deluxe), an expanded edition of his 11th album Brown went to Instagram Stories to share the update with his fans, noting that the impending deluxe will have 11 new tracks. He also shared a tentative release
Emerging R&B singer and songwriter Jack Freeman has released his third album, Nina. The 10-track offering, which includes the previously shared tracks “Shine” and “U N D R E S S,” takes listeners through love’s highs and lows. “Nina is an idea. She’s a symbol of your greatest loves, your biggest heartbreak, and everything in between,”