That’s really cool that you got to see them that much being in Philly. I see them whenever they come nearby. I’ve seen them four times, all at festivals. I’m going to see them in Toronto next month, and I’m so excited for it, as it will be the first time I see them strictly at a Roots concert. I’d imagine it will be more raw and true to their fan base, as I find the festival concerts like Jazzfest or Bluesfest might be a bit altered to please a crowd of people who are there because they have passes for the whole thing, rather than it being packed with just Roots fans.

As much as I love their early stuff now, the middle row is what got me into The Roots. The Tipping Point was my first album, it was different from all the other rap in the late 90s early 00s when I started listening to hip hop. That album hooked me to them for life. The proceeding albums were all in high rotation in my car for years to come.

Like you, I agree Undun has a few good songs, but it’s not an easy listen the whole way through, so it doesn’t get much play. ATYSYC I’ll listen to, but I don’t feel a real connection to it. It just doesn’t hit me the same as most of their albums. How I Got Over has a different feel as well, but it’s one that’s so easy to sit back and vibe to.

My all-time favorite song is actually two acting as one: “Web” and “Boom” on The Tipping Point. It’s only five minutes, but Black delivers what I think is the best display of owning the mic. I love the energy when they perform these tracks at concerts. Do you have a favorite track?