The Roots Picnic has officially announced its long-awaited return for this June, bringing a weekend of unforgettable live performances, culture, and good vibes back to Philadelphia. Now in its sixth iteration after a two-year pandemic pause, the beloved fest will take over The Mann in Fairmount Park June 4-5 with a powerhouse lineup that has fans buzzing.
Headlining this year’s event is the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul herself, Mary J. Blige, who will share a stage with The Roots for the first time. Fresh from her thrilling Super Bowl LVI halftime show and the release of her new album, “Good Morning Gorgeous,” Blige’s set will surely be one of the festival’s major highlights.
Some of the biggest names in music are joining the lineup, including Summer Walker, Wizkid, and Jazmine Sullivan. There’s also an added treat for jazz lovers, as the incredibly gifted Kamasi Washington will be playing this year.
The two-day event will additionally include sets from a wide range of artists across several genres. Other sets to get excited about include those from G Herbo, Tierra Whack, Chief Keef, the gospel legend Kirk Franklin, and rap heavyweights Freddie Gibbs and more. In keeping with the energy, this year’s menu also features a unique “J Period Live Mixtape” performance by Black Thought, Benny the Butcher, and Rick Ross, and a nostalgia-inducing “Soulquarians Jam Session” with Keyshia Cole, SWV, and Musiq Soulchild.
Shawn Gee, President of Live Nation Urban, Roots Manager, and Co-Founder of The Roots Picnic, added that they are thrilled to bring the festival back to Philadelphia. After two years and a long wait, they’re back and excited to return The Roots Picnic to Philly for two days of music and culture at the Mann at Fairmount Park.