Additional performers set to take the stage include R&B icon Brandy, rap legend T.I., legendary hip-hop group De La Soul, Tamar Braxton, Ledisi, Andra Day, and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Go Go Music with an all-star band.
Festival organizers also noted that this year’s concert will be the first time that the Roots Picnic will take place at Belmont Plateau in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. The park offers an attractive view of the city’s skyline. It has remained a popular destination in Philly, even receiving an acknowledgment in the 1991 hip-hop classic “Summertime” from Roots Picnic performing artist DJ Jazzy Jeff and hip-hop legend the Fresh Prince.
“Moving the Roots Picnic to Belmont Plateau and bringing Jay-Z and The Roots together to perform are both bucket-list moments for us,” said Shawn Gee, manager of The Roots and president of Live Nation, in a statement shared with NBC10 Philadelphia. “After meeting with Mayor Cherelle Parker and hearing her vision for Philly 250, she truly inspired us to dream even bigger, and we’re grateful to her, Commissioner Susan Slawson, Jazelle Jones, and everyone who helped make it happen. We can’t wait to see everyone in May at the Plat.”
Festival organizers also revealed that guests would be able to access an upgraded Roots Picnic app and SMS service that will provide enhanced communication, a second entrance to reduce wait times and speed entry, additional Roots Picnic ambassadors inside and outside the festival, and enhanced premium experiences for general admission and VIP ticket holders.
To access information about the festival and purchase pre-sale tickets, visit rootspicnic.com.