Latest news with #RootsPicnic
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Roots Picnic 2025 Faced the Storm: Here Are the 7 Moments That Shined Through
Roots Picnic 2025 brought tens of thousands of hip-hop and R&B lovers to Philadelphia's Fairmount Park for a two-day celebration of music and culture. Held at the Mann Center, this year's festival boasted a star-studded lineup featuring hometown hero Meek Mill, the legendary Lenny Kravitz, neo-soul icon Maxwell, GloRilla, Miguel and Tems. From longtime Roots Picnic attendees to first-time festivalgoers, fans came ready to celebrate Black music and community in one of the city's most iconic outdoor venues. More from Billboard Run-DMC's 'It's Like That' Reimagined By LEGO & Global Girls Crew as Women Empowerment Anthem Glastonbury Announces Full Lineup, Stage Times and Secret Sets For 2025 India's Girish and the Chronicles Ignite 'AGT' Stage With Adele Rock Rendition But what started as a promising weekend quickly turned into a test of patience for many attendees. Originally slated to open at 1:00 p.m. on May 31, the festival was delayed due to heavy storms in the area. Doors didn't open until around 3:30 p.m., and because of the sheer volume of attendees, some guests didn't make it inside until nearly 7 p.m. — missing entire sets in the process. Organizers extended the hours to squeeze in every act, but set times remained a mystery. Fans were left in the dark, forced to make tough decisions: Do you wait at one stage hoping your favorite artist shows up, or move and risk missing them altogether? I personally waited nearly two hours for Latto to perform — time I could've spent watching Miguel or Tems — if only there had been clearer communication. Day two saw smoother entry, but the disorganized schedule continued to cause confusion. Still, through muddy conditions, long lines, and plenty of frustration, the energy never dipped. Shoutout to Questlove, because the Roots Picnic made it clear that even when things don't go as planned, the show must go on. Here are Billboard's picks for the seven best moments from the 2025 rapper and self-proclaimed 'Ghetto Philosopher' GloRilla might want to add 'Ghetto Meteorologist' to her list of titles. During her high-energy set on Day 1 of Roots Picnic 2025, she paused to address the crowd, referencing her viral line: 'It's 7 p.m. Friday/ It's 95 degrees.' With perfect comedic timing, she asked if it was raining — even though skies were still clear. But almost as if she willed it into existence, the rain began to fall just moments later. Despite the unexpected weather, Glo didn't miss a beat. She delivered a polished performance packed with fan favorites and flanked by backup dancers whose breathless choreography matched her intensity. Glo even joined in on the synchronized moves, adding another layer of showmanship to an already electric set. Rain or shine, her performance was indeed the golden era of neo-soul, few voices defined the movement like Musiq Soulchild. Emerging from Philadelphia in the early 2000s with a sound that blended smooth vocals, rich lyricism, and heartfelt emotion, he became a staple of the genre. His debut album, Aijuswanaseing, helped shape the soul of a generation — and 25 years later, Musiq returned home to honor it in a way he never had before. Roots Picnic 2025 marked the first time Musiq Soulchild performed an entire album from front to back, and he chose Aijuswanaseing for the occasion. Watching the project come to life on stage felt like a full-circle moment — especially when he launched into 'Just Friends (Sunny),' the single that introduced him to the world and still hits just as hard today. Adding to the moment, Musiq took a second to show love to another lyrical powerhouse — Kendrick Lamar — by slipping in a surprise verse from 'TV Off' during his set. It was a night of legacy, love and soul, and Musiq proved that 25 years later, his voice and message still once was a Twitter dragging is now a full-blown brand moment for Latto. The ATL rapper, who was once called out online for wearing the same pair of cheetah-print underwear twice, has since turned that viral moment into a signature aesthetic — and she brought it front and center to Roots Picnic 2025. During her high-energy set, Latto's dancers launched cheetah-print underwear into the crowd using T-shirt cannons, while cheetah-print beach balls bounced above the sea of fans. But Latto didn't rely on gimmicks alone — she delivered a performance that proved just how far she's come. At one point, she left the stage entirely, danced in the pit, made her way into the stands, and performed halfway up the stairs before heading back down to the stage — never missing a beat. Her mic stayed hot, her choreography stayed tight, and the transitions between songs felt seamless, whether blended musically or connected through crowd banter. Latto's set was a masterclass in showmanship and self-awareness. She's not only embraced her viral past but used it to show just how much she's grown. Her journey is a blueprint for artist development and reinvention — and at Roots Picnic, she reminded everyone exactly why she's a Picnic 2025 gave hip-hop purists a moment to remember with Live Mixtape set — a dynamic performance concept where legendary MCs spit new verses over classic beats in real time. Black Thought, the driving force of the set, delivered razor-sharp freestyles on nearly every track, whether he originally appeared on them or not — never missing a bar and proving once again why he's one of the greatest to ever touch a mic. The set featured a stacked lineup of surprise guests. Sway stepped in as a narrator, guiding the crowd through the experience like it was a live audio documentary. 2 Chainz brought his southern flair, and most notably, Pusha T shocked the crowd by bringing out No Malice for an unexpected Clipse reunion—one of the first times the duo had shared a stage in years. It was a dream come true for hip-hop heads: pure bars, legendary moments and a celebration of rap in its rawest form. Live Mixtape wasn't just a performance — it was a living, breathing tribute to the art of was an honor to witness Laila! — Brooklyn's teenage phenom and daughter of rap legend Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) — at just her second-ever festival performance. With rap royalty in her DNA and undeniable talent of her own, Laila! is carving a lane that's uniquely hers. Her breakout tracks 'Like That' and 'Not My Problem' went viral before most people even knew what she looked like — but Roots Picnic 2025 made it clear: she's the real deal. Laila! sings, raps, writes, and produces her own music—and during her set, she showed off all those skills in real time. At one point, she casually crafted a few beats live on stage, using them as intros to her next songs, drawing huge reactions from the crowd. It was one of those moments where you could feel the energy shift — where everyone in the audience understood they were watching the beginning of something special. The future of the genre stood right in front of us, and her name is Laila!.Lenny Kravitz has long been on the Roots Picnic's dream lineup, and in 2025, he finally made good on his word to stand on that iconic stage. Co-headlining Day 2 alongside Philadelphia's own Meek Mill, the rock legend brought his signature blend of soul, funk, and rock to Fairmount Park — even as things behind the scenes weren't going as planned. Technical issues disrupted his set multiple times, forcing Kravitz to step off stage on at least two occasions so the crew could troubleshoot. But instead of letting it kill the momentum, he remained open and honest with the crowd. 'I wanna come out here and do my best for y'all, and s—t just keeps breaking,' he said. 'But that's all right, that's all right.' With three and a half decades in the game since his 1989 debut Let Love Rule, Kravitz has mastered the art of poise under pressure. 'Regardless of the situation, we stay positive, we give thanks, we're here to amplify love,' he reminded the audience. And when he returned to the stage for good, that love radiated through every note. Even in imperfection, Kravitz gave Roots Picnic a perfect own Meek Mill shut down Day 2 of Roots Picnic 2025 with a set full of energy, hometown pride and heart. While the 'King of Philly' ran through a deep catalog of hits, what truly stood out was the message he chose to leave with the crowd. Between songs, Meek took several moments to pause the music and speak directly to his city. He dedicated his performance to all the 'fallen soldiers,' including fellow Philly artist PnB Rock, and urged fans to spread love, not violence. 'Put the guns down,' he told the crowd. He wanted people to know there's no point in killing each other, especially over things like jewelry. It was a raw, emotional plea from someone who's seen both sides of the struggle — and who wants better for the next generation. Adding to the moment, Meek brought out Grammy-winning artist Fridayy, whose soulful vocals added depth to the performance. Together, they reminded the crowd that while music can move us, it can also heal — and Meek made sure his final words echoed long after the lights went down. Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
GloRilla Attends First Wedding As Bridesmaid: 'I Love Love'
GloRilla shared her first experience at a wedding where, the Memphis rapper served as a bridesmaid as one of her close friends tied the knot. In images and clips shared across social media, the 25-year-old performer stunned in a rich, blue gown, tousled up-do ,and declared her affection for love. 'My bi**h just got married,' professed the 'LET HER COOK' rapper in a TikTok clip from a table, seemingly at the event's reception. 'I love, love. F**k these ni**as but I'm happy for my girl. She is happily married. That's my homegirl! In additional footage shared on GloRilla's social media, she highlighted details of her inclusion in the affair. The clip was reposted to YouTube by the BangyShorts platform. 'I am a bridesmaid today,' reflected the Grammy nominee in a mirror selfie video. 'My homegirl is getting married today. This is my first time going to a wedding, and I'm a bridesmaid. I'm so excited.' The wedding comes amid the self-proclaimed 'Ghetto Philosopher's' busy schedule. The rapper appeared at the 2025 Roots Picnic in Philadelphia last weekend, performing on the muddy festival's main stage. This week, GloRilla is set to headline the 2025 BET Experience in Los Angeles, where she will be joined by BossMan Dlow, Crime Mob, Mario, Amerie, and Anycia. GloRilla also joined the lineup of performers named for the 2025 BET Awards, which air live on the network on Monday, June 9, 2025, where she is also nominated for six awards, including Album of the Year, Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, and Best Collaboration. More from Roots Picnic 2025 Lineup Includes Maxwell, GloRilla, Jeezy, Lenny Kravitz, And More GloRilla Changes Profile Picture To Michael Jackson After Nose Job Allegations GloRilla Clarifies Tory Lanez Repost After Social Media Assumes Rift With Megan Thee Stallion
Black America Web
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Questlove Apologizes for Roots Picnic 2025 Issues
Source: Astrida Valigorsky / Getty Despite a challenging start, the 18th annual Roots Picnic in Philadelphia transformed into a triumphant celebration of music and community. Held on May 31 and June 1 at the Mann Center in Fairmount Park, the festival showcased an impressive lineup of artists, reaffirming its status as a premier event in the music calendar. A Stellar Lineup Lights Up the Stage The festival boasted an eclectic mix of performers, drawing fans from across the nation. Saturday's headliner, Maxwell, delivered a soulful performance that captivated the audience. Sunday featured dynamic sets from Lenny Kravitz and Philadelphia's own Meek Mill, both of whom energized the crowd with their electrifying performances. Other notable artists included Miguel, Latto, GloRilla, and Musiq Soulchild, among others A highlight of the weekend was The Roots' performance of their classic album Do You Want More?!!!??! in honor of its 30th anniversary, a treat for longtime fans. STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! Overcoming Adversity: A Community United The festival's first day faced significant challenges due to heavy rainfall, leading to muddy conditions and logistical delays. Attendees experienced long wait times and safety concerns, with reports of medical emergencies on-site Questlove, drummer and co-founder of The Roots, addressed the issues in a heartfelt Instagram post, explaining that the severe weather had nearly led to the festival's cancellation. He emphasized the organizers' commitment to safety, stating, 'We prioritized caution above all else.' Efforts included repairing the site and adjusting the schedule to ensure all artists could perform without violating city noise curfews. By the second day, conditions had improved significantly, and the festival proceeded smoothly, allowing attendees to fully enjoy the performances and festivities. READ MORE STORIES: Questlove Apologizes for Roots Picnic 2025 Issues MFT: Childlike CiCi Remembers Her First Performance Fondly B-Side Bangers: Mariah Carey Beyond the Music: A Cultural Experience Roots Picnic 2025 was more than just a music festival; it was a celebration of Black culture and community. The event featured a variety of food vendors offering local flavors, including Southern-style favorites and soul food staples . Art installations and cultural exhibits provided attendees with immersive experiences that highlighted the richness of the African diaspora The festival also served as a platform for local businesses and nonprofits, fostering a sense of community engagement and support. Looking Ahead Despite the initial setbacks, Roots Picnic 2025 showcased the resilience and unity of its organizers, performers, and attendees. The festival's ability to adapt and deliver a memorable experience underscores its significance in the cultural landscape. As Questlove aptly put it, the challenges faced only highlighted the strength and dedication of everyone involved. With its successful conclusion, Roots Picnic 2025 stands as a testament to the power of music and community to overcome adversity and celebrate shared heritage. Source: Jazmyn Summers / Jazmyn Summers Article by Jazmyn Summers. You can hear Jazmyn every morning on 'Jazmyn in the Morning 'on Sirius XM Channel 362 Grown Folk Jamz . Subscribe to J azmyn Summers' YouTube . Follow her on Facebook and Instagram. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK . FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & TWITTER . SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE . STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! HEAD TO THE HOMEPAGE SEE ALSO Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Patti LuPone Called Out by Broadway Community in Open Letter Condemning ‘Bullying' & ‘Harassment'
Following Patti LuPone's recent remarks disparaging fellow Broadway actresses Audra McDonald and Kecia Lewis, more than 500 members of the Broadway community have signed an open letter calling out the musical theater legend for 'bullying' and 'harassment.' In the message published Friday (May 30) — just a few days after a New Yorker piece quoted LuPone as saying that McDonald was 'not a friend' while calling Cole a 'bi—' for labeling herself a stage 'veteran' — the signatories wrote that the Agatha All Along star's comments were 'degrading and misogynistic,' as well as a 'blatant act of racialized disrespect.' People who signed the letter include Courtney Love, as well as Tony winners James Monroe Iglehart, Maleah Joi Moon and Wendell Pierce. More from Billboard Here's How Audra McDonald Reacted to Patti LuPone Saying She's 'Not a Friend' Cynthia Erivo Opens Up About Her Queerness: 'The More Yourself You Are, The Better Understanding Starts to Happen' The Roots Apologize to Fans After First Day of 2025 Roots Picnic Marred By Long Lines: 'Safety Will Always Be Our Number 1 Priority' 'It constitutes bullying,' the letter continues. 'It constitutes harassment. It is emblematic of the microaggressions and abuse that people in this industry have endured for far too long, too often without consequence.' Though the signatories directly urged the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League to disinvite LuPone from the 2025 Tony Awards — as well as other 'industry events' such as 'fundraisers and public programs' — they also insisted that their message was about 'more than one person.' 'It is about a culture. A pattern. A persistent failure to hold people accountable for violent, disrespectful, or harmful behavior — especially when they are powerful or well-known,' the letter reads. 'This is not about differing opinions. It is about public actions that demean, intimidate, or perpetuate violence against fellow artists. It is about the normalization of harm in an industry that too often protects prestige over people.' Billboard has reached out to LuPone's rep for comment. The letter adds to the online backlash LuPone has been facing since her New Yorker profile went live Monday. In the piece, LuPone reflected on how she once asked Shubert Organization head Robert Wankel to step in after sound from the Alicia Keys-created musical Hell's Kitchen, in which Lewis starred, could be heard during LuPone's performances of The Roommate next door on Broadway. Shortly after LuPone's complaint, Lewis posted an Instagram video labeling the icon's actions as 'bullying,' 'racially microaggressive' and 'rooted in privilege' for calling 'a Black show loud.' 'She calls herself a veteran? Let's find out how many Broadway shows Kecia Lewis has done, because she doesn't know what the f–k she's talking about,' LuPone told The New Yorker of the situation. 'Don't call yourself a vet, bi—.' As for McDonald, LuPone took issue with the Private Practice star showing support for Lewis in the comments of said Instagram video. 'I thought, You should know better,' LuPone told the publication, noting that there had been an undisclosed 'rift' between the two actresses. 'That's typical of Audra. She's not a friend.' McDonald later responded in an interview with Gayle King, saying she had no idea what 'rift' LuPone was referring to. But while the comments could be regarded as typical for the famously forthright LuPone, the members of the Broadway community who signed Friday's open letter think she crossed a line. 'To publicly attack a woman who has contributed to this art form with such excellence, leadership, and grace … is not simply a personal offense,' their statement reads. 'It is a public affront to the values of collaboration, equity, and mutual respect that our theater community claims to uphold. 'We cannot continue to welcome back those who harm others simply because of their fame or perceivedvalue,' it concludes. 'This must stop. We will no longer tolerate violence — verbal, emotional, or physical — against artists within our own community. No more free passes. If our industry is truly committed to equity, justice, and respect, then those values must be applied consistently, even when it's uncomfortable.' Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Duran Duran Reunite With Nile Rodgers at Abbey Road Studios
Duran Duran are officially back in the lab with one of their most legendary collaborators. On Saturday (June 1), the iconic U.K. band teased new material via Instagram, sharing a snapshot from Abbey Road Studios with the caption, 'Working with our good friend Nile at Abbey Road Studios this weekend. Stay tuned…' More from Billboard Cynthia Erivo Opens Up About Her Queerness: 'The More Yourself You Are, The Better Understanding Starts to Happen' The Roots Apologize to Fans After First Day of 2025 Roots Picnic Marred By Long Lines: 'Safety Will Always Be Our Number 1 Priority' Rod Stewart Postpones Las Vegas Colosseum Residency Gig Due to Unspecified Illness Nile Rodgers, who's been behind some of the band's biggest hits, also shared the moment on his socials, writing, 'We had as much fun working yesterday as ever!' The reunion marks the first time Rodgers and Duran Duran have worked together in nearly a decade, following their last collaboration on 2015's Paper Gods, which featured the funk-infused single 'Pressure Off' with Janelle Monáe and cracked the Top 10 on both sides of the Atlantic. Rodgers' relationship with the band stretches back more than 40 years. He remixed their first Billboard No. 1 single 'The Reflex' in 1984, produced the fan-favorite 'The Wild Boys,' and went on to helm their fourth studio album Notorious (1986). His signature grooves helped shape Duran Duran's post-new wave sound during a critical period of their evolution. The super-producer later reunited with them for 2004's Astronaut, marking the return of the original five-piece lineup. The news arrives just days before Duran Duran kick off their European and U.K. tour with Rodgers and CHIC joining as special guests. The tour begins June 3 in Finland and includes major stops in Amsterdam, Rome, Dublin and the U.K., wrapping in early July. While the band hasn't confirmed whether the Abbey Road sessions are for a new album or standalone release, this marks the first major studio move since their Halloween-themed album Danse Macabre, released in 2023. Duran Duran have sold over 100 million records worldwide and earned two Grammy Awards. Their latest chart appearance came with Future Past in 2021, which debuted at No. 28 on the Billboard 200. Rodgers, meanwhile, remains one of music's most decorated producers, with credits spanning David Bowie, Madonna, Daft Punk and more. Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart
