The Roots feat. Bilal: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Watch The Roots feat. Bilal play at the Tiny Desk.
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Oct. 30, 2017 | Abby O'Neill -- Can you believe it? Yes, those are The Roots packed behind the Tiny Desk. Black Thought, Questlove and the crew carved out a few hours in their hectic Tonight Show schedule to visit NPR headquarters in Washington D.C. Why travel four hours for a 12-minute concert when you own the late-night airwaves? The answer can be found in the lyrics to The Roots' new song, "It Ain't Fair."
Armed with the incredible vocalist Bilal, The Roots performed the signature track from Detroit, a film about the race riots in 1967. "It Ain't Fair" glares unflinchingly, takes a knee and raises a fist against the societal construct that has systematically denied equality of experience to those "presumed inferior," to quote one of Bilal's verses. And it achieves all this while covering its heart with its right hand. This reflective hymn tenderly yanks your heart strings and offers a window into the ethos of those who would like to stand for the flag but cannot in good principle, lest these same evils continue to exist.
Those lucky enough to be in the Tiny Desk audience witnessed masters at work. Black Thought is truly one of the most intelligent emcees ever, and his razor-sharp lyricism was on full display. Questlove, a musical and cultural historian nonpareil, was both a metronomical and moral anchor. It felt like the culmination of decades of academic rigor and boom-bap sessions, fittingly backed by a seven-piece horn section. Bilal's falsetto-laced vocals and warm resonance evoked powerful messaging reminiscent of Curtis Mayfield's "Don't Worry," delivered with the eccentricity of Prince.
Late last year, Common premiered "Letter to the Free" at the Tiny Desk and later won an Emmy for the song. It wouldn't surprise me if "It Ain't Fair" becomes another award-winning performance when the Oscars roll around early next year. This is a song that deserves to be heard in the millions of households that watch The Roots every night.
Set List
"It Ain't Fair"
MUSICIANS
Curtis L. Jones Jr (Trombone), Arnetta Johnson (Trumpet), Hiruy E. Tirfe (Sax), Richard L. Tate II (Sax), Joseph Streater (Trumpet), Norman J. Bradshaw (Trombone), Damon Bryson (Sousaphone), Ahmir (Questlove) Thompson (Drums), Tarik (Black Thought) Trotter (Emcee), Bilal Oliver (Vocals)
CREDITS
Creative Director: Bob Boilen; Producers: Abby O'Neill, Morgan Noelle Smith; Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Morgan Noelle Smith, Maia Stern, Kara Frame, Alyse Young; Photo: Claire Harbage/NPR
For more Tiny Desk concerts, subscribe to our podcast.

[@nprmusic]

Hey Tiny Desk Fans, Check out NPR’s Black Stories, Black Truths - a collection of podcasts hosted by journalists who speak truth to power. Our voices are as varied, nuanced, and dynamic as the Black experience. And stories should never be about us without us. Listen now: www.npr.org/podcasts/510372/black-stories-black-truths

[@luciebourdon2151]

Aint no colour Love u all ❤

[@luciebourdon2151]

U dont like those kind.of

[@luciebourdon2151]

But Still am i

[@cesarpena1461]

d😮freeerrd

[@wauzers]

Many amens and glorifying brass and singing and all worthy of praise! Amen

[@stringbean8994]

My man with the Tuba hasn't stopped blowing since he walked into the room

[@BrotherMalMusic]

He could probably survive underwater for hours with that breath control

[@lacaros2]

solo de mirarlo me quedé sin oxigeno.

[@harryaverill2877]

sousaphone... and thats what she said

[@Soul_Latina]

JACKSON MCNALLY lmao 😂

[@lilettex0421]

@JACKSON MCNALLY Lol who cares? A sousaphone is basically a tuba that wraps around you

[@TsetsiStoyanova]

The tuba is a hero

[@alvinmay8384]

Can the trombone get some.............

[@legshakermaker1968]

It's a sousaphone, not a tuba.

[@viniciusbernhardtkroth971]

legshakermaker1968 A sousaphone is a tuba so it’s ok to call it a tuba

[@michaelp.jackson7803]

@@viniciusbernhardtkroth971 actually a tuba is a tuba and a sousaphone is a sousaphone.

[@sampsonwilcox9184]

Dude set the foundation with his cheeks

[@patricksimo9045]

Here I am in 2024... And I keep coming back on this master piece !

[@victorgutierrez9571]

glad to see you here!

[@jeanpierrefouchard421]

Me too ! All ways give me the goose pup…

[@kahliatrim3408]

Same!

[@gavinanstee8377]

Best entrance ever. Amazing performance start to finish.

[@markusw.4192]

Jep❤

[@FiredogTX]

Most people don't know it, but the tuba player is fighting for his life back there. A true hero.

[@love.5198]

This performance of "It Ain't Fair" deserves a Grammy.

[@sideshowbob2908]

Well said. So we'll said.

[@susiq1121]

We don't need their affirmation

[@mukulseth]

@@susiq1121 but hopefully it will reach more people that way

[@mizrelmizrel]

Facts 💯

[@BrnBear]

It does tho

[@BrnBear]

Bilal didn't need to go that hard... He did that for us. He did that for us...

[@paisleyprincess7996]

He sho did

[@LadyT33]

Ain't lying!

[@lashaphillips9919]

Sho you rite

[@MissSuperHottie]

Bilal always go hard. He makes my soul happy!

[@calvinmiller9049]

@@MissSuperHottie facts

[@dkmk2001]

As a former HBCU marching band tuba player. This dude is a certified Beast!

[@wyndgrove9452]

I was just thinking how outstanding he is - really pulling the whole show together.

[@timmyteaching]

Herculean effort.

[@SethPlaysBass]

dude i was thinking the same thing, i dont play tuba but i play electric bass. Groovin

[@darknessmetal182]

Iron Lungs

[@diamondjack-cooper5322]

AMEN!

[@heyjoejp]

“It ain’t fair when your protector is your Predator” Bilal made sure we all felt that. He is incredible

[@UltimateCheeto]

This dude is beyond any charisma i´ve seen from a singer since maybe the likes of d´angelo in in the same age and really maybe curtis mayfield in the older times. His catalogue indeed is not well lit upon, reminisce is a masterpiece but i think this man chose a low-lit career also shining with robert glasper, where i discovered him as a nobody basically. The realness is high and maybe the realest aren´t meant for big fame. I pray he gets his tiny desk !

[@diamondjack-cooper5322]

AMEN!

[@Adrok23]

​@@UltimateCheetointerscope did the dirty on him. He was mishandled badly.

[@bigbake2k]

I feel like we're making a mistake by not recognizing Bilal as the generational talent that he is. Voices like his are few and far between.

[@darnellburtin]

Absolute Truth....

[@BarathMiklos]

although I haven't found music as good as this on his channel.

[@archol6596]

@@BarathMiklos You might want to check out "Love for Sale", usually considered to be Bilal's best album

[@stevechase2232]

A pure gem!!!

[@marcusa.fromthebay7514]

If you don't recognize, then you are making that exact mistake and if, indeed you are then, SHAME ON YOU!✌🏾

[@RochesterRJ]

ADVISORY: This video contains explicit good quality music.

[@kylejscheffler]

Saxual content

[@valenciomarquis1003]

"Because wolves disguised as sheep patrol our streets." Listening in May 2020, the truth in this just hurts.

[@cairehendrix7762]

Thanks for warning me I’ll skip this video

[@baghouse2678]

@@kylejscheffler that pun.. your power level must be pretty high

[@lifewiththelittles313]

😂😂

[@AnnoyingOrangefan518]

I just watched Bilal's Tiny Desk and had to come on over

[@kanyelova]

Fact😂😂

[@alexd2227]

Leave it to The Roots to come play the Tiny Desk and only perform one song. Legendary.

[@MistressOP]

i like both the new stuff and old but ya.. lol one new song. only pls.

[@klayniltasuwan7984]

Clearly wasn't only one song..

[@TheRealTonyAdams]

How would you even follow that song up?

[@ChristopherCJXJoseph]

Brilliant 12 minute opus...

[@msdawg2]

Klay Niltasuwan I hear one song with instrumental intros and outros.

[@Ang.143]

Bilal needs his own tiny desk concert. His catalogue is worthy of praise

[@teamlean3717]

and when he does i'm downloading it to my phone, laptop, everything!!

[@rtoriq]

I have ZERO ideas why he doesn't have one yet. It's one of the most anticipated tiny desk concerts.

[@valeo3508]

Come on somebody,tell it his voice is a national treasure

[@lashaphillips9919]

Sho you rite

[@MusicIsLife11646]

Indeed

[@islanddoggear]

My man on the Tuba is absolutely killing these funky basslines

[@sharasholar]

💯

[@cobbhc]

The ENDURANCE.

[@kasperz.5218]

oh yeah he is so smooth and consistent - amazing skill

[@djderizzz]

yes sir !

[@-Jumbus]

I believe its a sousaphone but you're damn right either way. Who even needs a bassist haha

[@scottbritton3626]

"Bruised and scared, presumed inferior, BUT we ain't scared a y,'all" moved my soul

[@BokorugroRR]

NPR: "Ok guys, this is a quiet, cosy desk please keep the volume down." Roots: *marches in with brass band*

[@hermosamakeup]

András Szepesi Hahahaha!

[@MissSuperHottie]

Bwhahahahaha! RIGHT!

[@marciat7465]

Haaa

[@opulence_prime]

András Szepesi that’s how you show up to show out.

[@livingstonmills5047]

Only the ROOTS 😂😂😂😂😂😂!!!!!!

[@ardehlnainan3567]

"Because wolves disguised as sheep patrol our streets." Listening in May 2020, the truth in this just hurts.

[@kahyangni6808]

Crying.

[@zackennedy]

@@kahyangni6808 thank goodness that cop and his buddies are being prosecuted. Let's come together through music!

[@orcuttnyc]

@@zackennedy He'll get to keep his pension.

[@narfulthegarthak]

Bill Orcutt Good, then the civil suit can be funded if he loses

[@PaulTheBetta]

What makes you think that every police officer is a corrupt wolf?

[@Sithreis]

That tuba sound is so clean holy hell, almost sounds like an actual bass

[@MonoIce350s]

Not a tuba. Sousaphone.

[@MonoIce350s]

I know - just a little addendum

[@kevinjones238]

@@MonoIce350s 👈

[@pipedownandeatyourpudding2986]

Why bilal standing like he waiting for the bus and just absolutely killing it

[@BradUNeed2CutIttt]

😳Bilal had 400 years worth of pain in that voice

[@bluefood726]

I’m black so I felt okay laughing at this because I’m laughing through the pain

[@ronmendez-macfarland5251]

Bilal has always gone in.....

[@Ishbikes]

It’s called the “growl” voice. They claim it’s not good for the throat but Bilal does it so effortlessly.

[@Peas_AU]

i feel like he was holding back too. absolute king.

[@Madamegeilin]

Most Black people do.

[@teachtime]

For a minute Bilal had me thinking I was a black American. Then I remembered I'm an Australian with middle eastern parents 🤣🤣. But I felt that. Much love.

[@shell7133]

Lol

[@LaNishaReneeXO]

Ayyyeee!!! That's alright!

[@JohnBrown-my6bs]

😂😂😂

[@92kidnyc]

🤣

[@tatiiona10]

People swear they woke but they sleep...I pray the Lord they soul n to keep!!!

[@FemiJohnson]

The Audio engineer did a fucking marvelous job too! Wow!!! Overall, this piece should be preserved in a museum.

[@Jaburu]

I wondered how they get this relativly good sund out of it. the room is actualy much bigger than it seams. One can see more of it in the blue people video

[@_ANUJ__]

And all this is for free... I mean tiny desk wow

[@stash1306]

Hell to the yeah

[@lorenzobaines6222]

Indeed. Sound never peaked or bled. Bravo to the sound engineer.

[@PaoloC.]

I wonder if the musicians have any monitors, looks like they don't!

[@curiouslymavismade]

The Roots accomplished more in 12 minutes then most musicians have accomplished in their lifetime.

[@dubiousfacts7435]

😂 true that

[@neighbor9672]

Life is beautiful

[@Pots-j8p]

Who's here after Bilal's own Tiny Desk 👀

[@Da_Lori]

🙋🏾‍♀️

[@MistressOP]

if you had told me 8 years ago.. that tiny desk was going to be the place for emerging black culture and classic rap.... id has jaw dropped. by.. lol lil tiny desk has totally become that.

[@ApocalypseLater8]

Miss O.P. Thank Gawd!

[@bitterbum1]

Miss O.P. Yeah! The widespread respect held by NPR for different music cultures is really what makes I️t top tier for me

[@DennisGruetter]

Top. Tier!

[@Red4350]

Npr variety!

[@dadou7669]

I'm french and just discover tiny desk.. Not really aware.. So, I'm curious to know.. What was tiny desk before ?

[@mariagabbott]

The moment you realise the tuba is one of the coolest instruments ever

[@porkchop42]

True, buuuut, it's really all about the soul behind the instrument.

[@gmikecstein]

11:24 : that moment when Questlove readjusts his afro pick without missing a beat. Legendary

[@God1st924]

It’s like Michael Jackson spin move without getting caught in the microphone cord

[@byang20]

"Looking for justice, but it's just us." Dayum...that's too real.

[@firecharger]

More kids would wanna play the brass if they heard more music like this in their teen years

[@briane810]

Amen

[@MiguelAcosta-up5kl]

Fuck

[@dankashmere5427]

Dave Matthews grace is gone

[@Yaser-ih2cx]

Word, that's exactly what I was thinking watching them. But hey, it's never too late too learn!

[@firecharger]

@Carlton Beckford-Dozier I played trombone, tuba, and bugle growing up. Got a lot of love for a tight brass section

[@ibieiniid4240]

I need this tuba line to play whenever I enter a room.

[@Organise_Space]

eat more beans (works for me)

[@stephaniecrosby5294]

Lol!

[@CMDUrbanTactics]

Hilarious

[@loveschile7339]

Ha!

[@ladybug4885]

Ha Haaa True True

[@sunnydaysatl]

Bilal is so underrated...love him since Soul Sister

[@wadepippins1824]

Sure is wow

[@loveschocool]

Facts!!

[@jrivtechv]

I found this in 2017. It was a tough year for me. Now I'm back.

[@doctoroctos]

They should get their own show and have Fallon on as their comedy guest.

[@boobman773]

doctoroctos or fallon could just fuck off altogether

[@fvrs3411]

A transfer to Conan is much needed, a crappy talkshow host like Fallon doesn't deserve a great band like this.

[@thebigboygun]

The problem is Fallon can't produce comedy

[@SHUX-A7-13]

doctoroctos I absolutely love that idea

[@softhausstudio]

@@fvrs3411 Conan?!?!? He as never anything relevant to say AND is boring at the same time. At least Fallon is funny.

[@Fernos005]

I think i just witnessed one of the greatest performances of all time..

[@phareel6929]

You ain't lying!

[@Seekingsilver]

No.. that's baby's got back😀

[@sole9482]

Me too

[@dwainstanley1670]

A true generational imprint.

[@BigCheefaDaOG]

Facts! OMG!

[@qwertyismymom]

Guy playing the tuba has lungs like a fucking submarine

[@masquedev14]

qwertyismymom I know, right?! He’s even got cheeks like bellows to boot!

[@MisterDumptruck]

It's actually a Sousaphone! Basically a portable Tuba.

[@katyasavina3092]

qwertyismymom олюз

[@craig7810]

Tuba Gooding jnr

[@jacobdocksey9345]

Dizzy Gillespie cheeks

[@Nhilzer]

Black Thought is one of the best MCs we can witness to hear on this planet. Thanks NPR.

[@velmabell9770]

Bilal and the Roots are channeling the ancestors. Tears raining down, aint fair!

[@cornellhartfield8731]

I hear you sister

[@grammynomineesbts1086]

Black thought is channelling them too.

[@kountzer]

I'd never heard of Bilal until I saw this video.

[@lstoryrecords_]

@@kountzer check out 'bilal-soul sista' which was his first single years ago..early 2000s....'bilal-fast lane ft jadakiss' is another big song of his

[@Monkeybread31]

@@kountzer I'm so glad you're here!

[@chimcham6762]

Bilal has been underrated for so damn long. Him and Musiq Soulchild are everything!

[@heyjoejp]

Chim Cham bilal was Musiq’s voice coach

[@divineselfentity]

That's amazing to hear ​@@heyjoejp

[@yanmartins2335]

Bilal's voice make this feels like an 60s/ 70s music…

[@johnnieluca3489]

Man. Phew. Wow. Almost 5 years and this still slaps. This'll forever be one of the greatest performances in all of music history.

[@carlbernard7615]

'The Devil is feeding off hate, so he gaining weight' what a great line from my man Black Thought.

[@ernestjohnson1479]

Execellent lyricist...good catch

[@hindiyeh85]

Black Thought is the GOAT.

[@johnhendricks8140]

Can you have a better than that.

[@nene5857]

Black Thought! One of the greatest lyricist ever! Quote me on that.

[@christinagraham2915]

And the most underrated

[@SEl-fh4wl]

Undisputed fact!

[@susansusan138]

Yes....truly

[@AhmedBristolskiy]

And MC too

[@Dub-C]

💯

[@larryhatchett8383]

So we just gone sleep on Bilal? Bruh murdered this song, then resurrected it!!!

[@Forever_yours44]

Nope, loved Bilal since he came out early 2000's he is the man!!!

[@Kevinschart]

who's sleeping on bilal? you?

[@cyndih8680]

Larry Hatchett I snatched my wig off and wipe this face twice chile 💪🏽🔥

[@paulwan215]

Bilal been the shit. The Roots song water was about him

[@macchamberlain1091]

Killed it!!

[@ShannonTheMojito]

8:38 "I identify with Death, that don't mean it's not an uninvited guest" that hit hard

[@terrylopez3570]

INDEED!

[@alexisf22]

" people swear they woke but they walking in their sleep" preach

[@bradleygeorge1581]

Too dope

[@mizrelmizrel]

Facts 💯

[@divineselfentity]

He completely killed it with that line!

[@douglasarnoldda33]

Yes Lawd!!!

[@oneiam]

"When your protector is your predator, it ain't fair."

[@newteetee]

Resonated

[@felixicon]

Chilling

[@Bydabags]

Hit me in my soul!

[@mizrelmizrel]

😪👏

[@redbrown7355]

@One Iam IKR that's a dope lyric because it resonates with truth. And the crazy thing about it is that it could apply to more than just Cops. And that's the sad part.

[@kevinanglim4439]

I’ve come to the conclusion that this is the greatest tiny desk concert ever. Not only is the song itself deeply meaningful and important for the times were in currently but the performances from each member of the group seems so soulful. You can really see each member put their entire self into this performance. From quest to bilal to black thought and the entire brass section I mean it was really amazing to witness. Truly amazing

[@mamasnoopy4692]

I agree.

[@illegaldyo]

I've been coming back to this set every week for a couple years now, there's something well and truly special about it.

[@bobpatchfr]

Love is here !

[@jasiahsfather1]

I was rocking wit Mac Miller's "Tiny" being the TALLEST until Bilal graced this stage!

[@katlegoeluw8556]

@@mamasnoopy4692 Me to

[@KekeLove24]

Good God! This was not given the recognition it deserved! Please know that this will live forever and I felt EVERY SINGLE WORD!!!!!

[@otegadamagic]

Black thoughts is the most consistently conscious lyricist. i salute

[@vaughnboogiemusic]

Right up there with KRS-ONE

[@MKDOTTERY14]

And Kendrick

[@GrimeDiesel]

@@MKDOTTERY14 above all

[@royalqdash]

This is one of the rawest horn sections I've ever heard. Dude Is killing that Tuba... "it's all about the tuba shawty"

[@lyomon9981]

Damn Bilal came straight from the 70 s with that voice woww

[@loveschile7339]

EXACTLY!

[@willieclark3450]

Qomk*

[@monetrogers7612]

Bilal is just so perfect in his jazz sensibility here as always.

[@l.daniels168]

Man, I literally cried listening to "It Ain't Fair". It's like it was written for this present day. How many times is this going to repeat? How long do we have to live like this? Fear, anger, hatred, excuses, lies, cover-ups, fake sympathy, loss lives, no justice, no peace. Why? God have mercy and help us all.......

[@frederickwilliams387]

The present and the past are synomous

[@ItsTheNada]

This was written to reflect the entirety of US history. Not just today.

[@rotunda40]

I cried, screamed from the hurt 😢!!!! I looked in the mirror and saw all that cane before who were never afforded the opportunity to really live and be treated fair and with justice. It hurts!!!!! 😭😭😭

[@MrBootle]

They brought in the all the happiness and joy with their intro and then - BAM! Hit me with a left hook. I was a mess also… tears of deep rooted sadness and dismay 😭😭😭 It's up to all of us to change society for the better of the many and not the few ✊

[@OmegaSeraphim]

Amen!

[@msyana80]

Bilal just made me throw this wig straight at my tv !! Boy you betta sing

[@dwaynenewsome1223]

I listen to this at least once a day. Looking for JUSTICE and its JUST US

[@adg_87]

Lol!

[@waltbcouncil4786]

Crazy part is that it sounds better than the original to me. Top 5 Tiny Desk performance.

[@coolb8545]

Never heard the original but this slaps hard I'm done

[@MisterQuasar]

It’s the best performance

[@parabellum5503]

I will roll with top 5.

[@Rootstroubador]

Tiny Desk tends to do that with artists. I still hope some of these recordings end up on Spotify or Apple music.

[@CloudTsuchiya]

Omg Bilal's voice is miraculous!

[@SUFFDELE]

Bilal came on like.. "Hello my name is Larry and I'm an Aquarius " lol too smooth

[@genevab.howard7860]

Suff Dele 😂😂😂😂 smooth

[@tellmiabedtimestory7168]

thanks for the lol on such a gut wrenching effort made my day

[@wonderwoman2435]

Float on!!!

[@ccjacks3]

Tiny Desk concerts have THE BEST live mixing. And having that many instruments just proves it. The Roots are amazing.

[@RemyBeast]

Thank god there are still artists out there who care about the art form and the message more than the money.

[@jayray6844]

Trust me

[@BedStuyBro]

Amen

[@paulwan215]

The Roots are getting plenty money, overseas, where they actually like real music, or were before the tonight show gig. I'm from Philly, my brother who used to DJ saw Black Thought in a maroon Escalade in 1999 at 16th and Chestnut and Thought actually recorded a sound bite for him like "this is Black Thougt chilling with dj K-dub, we out here in Philly, love and peace" I think my brother ejaculated upon himself that very moment lmao. But they're real

[@BrunoNeureiter]

@@paulwan215 I don't know what you're talking about lol

[@hottchichi]

Paul Wanamaker they getting plenty money here too they play every where and let’s not forget they are on the Jimmy Fallon show as the house band

[@N.3242]

Tariq is the most slept on lyricist. I dont know why. Dude rhymes are sick. Blial just slayed the mic for sure. The whole set was on fire!!!

[@cherylbesegai765]

Agreed, however the woke people have resounding appreciation for life. He steals the show IMO

[@N.3242]

Yes!

[@archol6596]

Wouldn't say slept on, many recognize Thought as one of the illest rhyme spitters of all time.

[@N.3242]

He is one of the illest 4 sure!

[@jacksoninc.4062]

He's on my top 3 for sure

[@kriswillie]

The roots and band brought the gasoline and Bilal set that shit on fire !!!

[@iluvmyboba]

Bilal is one of the most slept on vocalists Ever!!!

[@shann9905]

iluvmyboba Ever!

[@dhud707]

He really sounds like that live.

[@YakThaWiseman72]

+iluvmyboba Right On!

[@HeyGirlHey77]

"WHAT IS LOVE" is one of my favorites. This dude!😵

[@MrMrsBAS-44]

The crowd of predominant Caucasians will miss this in the MUSick.....when the majority has no voice we rely on those who look like us to rise for us...and tis was done in this TRACK....Completely!!!

[@JEGHETTO]

Bilal said,” AAAaaaaaaaaaaghaaaaaaaaaaghaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAH!” I feel you bro. I feel you. ✊🏾❤️🖤💚

[@deebrown4877]

YEP!!!!!🎯🎯🎯

[@Chubby_Lemon]

bars

[@1SouthrnComfort]

He feels this in his soul…that’s pain

[@canicole20]

Lol yesss😂😂💙

[@BigCheefaDaOG]

YESSIR....

[@BtheOutLIer]

My boy Bilal went off.

[@rickyguerra954]

Man, Questlove really fixed his pick while playing the drums without skipping a beat. What a legend.

[@OscarPalacios]

Bilal is that diamond world needs to apreciate a lil more

[@farrellcityking1]

As Dr. Dre once said: “Bills is the most talented person I’ve I’ve worked with”. That’s saying a whoooole lot coming from Dre.

[@susansusan138]

Bilal is a genius.

[@umissedme2]

*screaming internally at my desk*...because real screams are frowned upon.

[@aakilsharif1963]

Danielle Cox 😂😂😂😂😂👌🏿

[@mrs.stewart917]

YES! ME TOO. This is powerful.

[@aakilsharif1963]

Mrs. Stewart did you hear black thought lyrics... like damn, he don't miss.

[@mrs.stewart917]

Aakil Sharif He definitely didn't miss with this one.

[@umissedme2]

On point, on time, on topic!

[@Cluv22]

Quest AND Jeff Bradshaw AND Bilal AND Black Thought?? SOOOOOOOO much Black positive energy

[@tombenson1454]

Been a while since I went to church, but Bilal just took me there.

[@vernellthomas6644]

Yes LAWD🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@teedeedub1]

That was a sermon

[@tombenson1454]

Bruh eat a snickers

[@nejolo9563]

This should be performed in churches and in protests. Instead we are getting many evangelical churches preaching a pro right authoritarian message. Especially Pentecostal churches. They are intentionally deceiving people.

[@KylaCharter]

"When your protector is your predator" good GOD that hits hard.

[@tblannon74]

It kills me how Bilal act like he didn't just tear the MF house down! 💪🏾 Goosebumps

[@shosaleen]

Straight beast bro!

[@KLartrandM]

That performance was the embodiment of Rakims "i aint no joke" . Like literally, no one could come after him when he finished that song that day. It wouldnt be fair, fr fr. ✊🏿 ...Ok except maybe Prince, so in that case let me correct myself. No one LIVING could come after him when he finished...!

[@pilarrleigh]

Not one drop of sweat

[@cyberspace667]

Keeping your cool is the black man’s burden

[@coolb8545]

Humble on 1000

[@JackieOdonnel]

I literally have buckets of tears streaming down my face. POWER and STRENGTH to the people just simply lookin' for love amidst the hate.

[@BigCheefaDaOG]

Me too Bro💪🏾✊🏾🤝🏾

[@Tacconi757]

100% performances like this have always brought me to tears EASY. At 44 years of age I have only recently accepted that it isn’t a weakness that I should hide but a part of me that I should have been embracing my whole life. Its a clear sign that I really haven’t found my true self BUT IM ON MY WAY 🙏🏽

[@oraclesma4575]

@@Tacconi757 light speed!

[@Tacconi757]

@@oraclesma4575 appreciate you 🙏🏻

[@sinfulthep773]

Bilal Is Definitely One Of The Coldest Vocalist To Ever Live

[@MsKikiDivine314]

"It Aint Fair" brought me to tears, so much truth.

[@megamrsoftee]

When Bilal is pointing around the room belting out, "no," and he almost points right at the camera, it makes me feel like I have the responsibility to pay attention and do something for others in this world. Tears all over my keyboard at work for sure.

[@ryheemsalam5536]

What a appropriate song for these troubling time

[@keychan98]

I been seeking this song out for healing purposes, been helping alot , very needed in times like this

[@bobbyspencer7089]

Keiona McElhoe This is why our ancestors created the music. Healing, celebration, love, frustration, hate, regret, shame, hope, faith-our shared experience has and always be expressed in our music. It’s entertainment for some. It’s cathartic for us.

[@keychan98]

@@bobbyspencer7089 absolutely! Man I haven't got a good KZbin comment that made me feel heard in years it feels like, thank you. Here I got one for you that's been keeping me afloat as well , I share it with hopes it'll give your soul the love we need ♥️ Mos def Umi Says

[@thomas7247]

Keiona McElhoe you guys making the youtube comment section a more bearable place, thanks

[@tradonmyoozik34]

Word.

[@DannySullivanMusic]

How have I missed out on Bilal for my entire life?!? So much soul in his voice, 100% beautiful.

[@jlou7287]

that's very sad to hear, danny; however, the good news is: it's better late than never... glad you discovered magnifique bilal

[@BabyGurlnJP]

You need to start with his first album and go from there.

[@montblancnoland1]

Felt that a couple years didn't know about him till I was listening to 88keys album

[@tswagg504]

@@BabyGurlnJP Facts

[@MissDionJ]

Start from the beginning, check out his debut album and go from there.

[@keneilwetsotetsi3142]

I cannot leave this earth without having seen The Roots live. I refuse!

[@MissSuperHottie]

It's a spiritual experience. I've seen them several times over the years. They just keep getting better and better

[@yandayende7739]

As'hambeni S'ye Phesheya Mndeni

[@Ahsharah777]

They give you so much show.. I felt like we left with additional $20 in pockets.... They are awesome

[@adibee88]

Their LIVE performance will make you TRASHCAN ALL your recorded music you have of The Roots, THEY'RE THAT GOOD! 😉👍

[@617wax]

You really have to, by far hands down the best to ever do it. The only ones who do whet they do actually. I’ve been blessed enough to see them 4 times throughout the years.

[@skylisszthecolossus]

"It Aint Fair" is one of the best songs of all time in any genre. Essentially the way they did it live.

[@williamdavis2868]

skylisszthecolossus ...it truly speaks volumes...and Bilal ingest his heart ❤️ out...

[@skylisszthecolossus]

@@williamdavis2868 No lie, the song was already a visual song and he was like a brilliant actor in how he sings it.

[@coolb8545]

Soooo dope..I send it to everyone in my contacts every time I see this

[@hassanwashington7383]

Bilal ain't lost it!!! 🤦🏾‍♂️ His voice give a brother chills

[@darylsjr]

Hassan Washington he sounds like David Ruffin

[@p3046-f6g]

@@darylsjr My exact thought bro. Damnnnn!

[@kevinrayburn6300]

@@p3046-f6g He sound's like Bilal! Most Underrated! I admit every time I hear this song he makes me tear up!

[@fireyflower6643]

It sure does

[@andi515]

No one can touch Bilal.

[@gadipurcell2119]

This gotta be the most powerful performance in npr history

[@jamosensei]

Over two years later...HOW MANY O' Y'ALL KEEP COMING BACK?...10 Million Views...LET'S GIVE IT SOME MORE!!!

[@bustaknutt7729]

Like what you did there, jamo...

[@deebrown4877]

👍👍YEP!!!

[@michaelwhite8619]

i must have listenes to it 10 ,15 times back to back when i first foind it

[@shannonbear5319]

I re-liked the same comment I liked on my previous visit.

[@TacitSwine750]

I've just realized how much of Bilal I hear in Anderson Paak's voice.

[@sethewing15]

and I've just realized how much of Prince I hear in Bilal's voice.

[@neat1757]

I don't think it's intentional. Lol. I love Bilal. He's BAD ass but I swear Anderson is just completely separate and equally fire.

[@Slowjo1221]

Seth Ewing literally the same exact thing I was thinking

[@bautistavazquez6295]

yes lawd!!

[@neilboyce3976]

We gotta send this video to all these new "Lit" and pop artists. Party music is fun and all but...no offense, this is REAL MUSIC. TAKE NOTES kids and make some music that means something too or our kids kids won't have ANY new Classics. They will still be listening to our favorite artists in the future like the Roots and Blial. I doubt the migos, future, and this pop junk on the radio now will stand the test of time. I'm just saying.

[@TheRealNativeSun]

Only 3 brothers that scream and it hits my soul. Jame Brown, Prince, Bilal.

[@coreysligh2006]

And D'Angelo

[@Jon-du9pn]

Screamin eagle of soul charles bradley

[@TheParanoidParanorm]

Stevie??

[@el90moro]

Curtis Mayfield?

[@adg_87]

@@el90moro Mayfield's not a screamer. B, Prince and JB ( and D'angelo) are.

[@704_t_a_y]

My Gee on the Tuba is setting the pocket! I love how he's the center of the entire groove! Brass dont get enough love outchea! Bilal is always an epic part of anything he lends his voice to. Black Thought is the GREATEST lyricist of our generation. Don't @ me on that. 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@zenith3865]

"It ain't fair" was actually amazing. Literally blown away by the iron lunged tuba player.

[@g.a.b.4914]

Are they inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame Yet? The Mighty, Mighty, Legendary Roots are truly an American Music Icon.

[@tomswill9189]

WOW BILAL TOOK IT TO ANOTHER LEVEL. KEEP DOING IT BRO.

[@coolb8545]

Looks like Tariq didn't get the memo..he's like "ok dude you made your point"

[@ilfantasticobananajothesci3922]

@@coolb8545 ) but yes go go and so on and that turned out quite well

[@lilysaxhull6095]

As Prince said ‘real music by real musicians’ . Always the best.

[@zakariarasmi6359]

Tiny desk is the best thing that ever happened to KZbin... and this is the proof. LORD this is good !

[@marcusanderson4938]

Biläl hit something in my soul with those vocals!!! Made me want to run round the house!!!!!!!

[@JDtheadvocate]

Marcus Anderson You said something on that! This Session is so Dope

[@theinfamouspokeinrichmondc3543]

Bilal is the closet thing to Prince we have on this planet. His range is incredible. And what else can be said about Black Thought? These dudes are using their gifts from God and bringing us REAL music. Love it!!!

[@justwinfelipe6495]

I think you meant to say hard work, instead of god.

[@omarsoto1986]

You're born with talent and then work hard to perfect it. God gave them the talent.

[@justwinfelipe6495]

Prove it, or you're full of shit

[@SpiralstaticXX]

omar soto actually, thousands of hours of practice gave them the talent.

[@81pwg]

Philly at it's finest

[@hassongordon1249]

Back to hear "It Ain't Fair" on MLK day.. Want the emotions to flow to cause we still have quite a ways to go!

[@smileybone3010]

That tuba guy absolutely crushed

[@kiranroberts]

It’s a sousaphone, not a tuba.

[@smileybone3010]

@@kiranroberts 😑 delightfully picky

[@mischav2872]

Gospel According to Rolly its a type of tuba ya nit picky ass.

[@kiranroberts]

@@mischav2872 no, it's a sousaphone. It's a TYPE of brass instrument.

[@mid-sizesedan488]

Gospel According to Rolly but it sounds exactly like a tuba

[@MsClutchedPearls]

Bilal vocals on this song are amazing as usual, each time I hear the song it takes me on a journey of emotions!

[@skylisszthecolossus]

Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Bilal just FATALITY KILLED IT! The Roots are just LEGENDS period.

[@williamdavis8855]

10:58 Bilal screaming up to the Ancestors beyond..... Heeeeeellllllllpppp

[@SB-wr7hf]

"...here we are, bruised and scarred, presumed inferior, but we ain't scared of y'all, nah" Soul-stirringly real!

[@SPACECOWBOY705]

✊🏿😢

[@j.riffney7939]

Can't stop going back to listen

[@hellokittycutie2003]

That part hits and I simultaneously feel like breaking down and punching a wall.

[@Byandreallen]

ONE OF THE BEST NPR SESSIONS! HANDS DOWN!!

[@cianb5764]

indeed....they crushed the whole session with one track.........where they do that at???????

[@cianb5764]

check out anderson paak....it's worth the time

[@pinkyandorbrain]

When you watch some of the things happening here, you realise these guys barely rehearsed this, if at all. Like at the beginning, Questlove is calling out "Bridge!" to tell the bandmembers to play that section. And then at around 4:08 Bilal looks to Questlove who shakes his head, and then at 4:19 Questlove nods to Bilal to lead him in. Then you can see Bilal is reading the lyrics from a sheet throughout. This level of quality and these guys are basically winging it. Unreal.

[@huntersun9]

I really don't see any sheet Bilal could be reading from. Most of the time he has his eyes closed when his head is down. Anyway, it is an amazing performance all around.

[@sapphirejones7302]

The way everyone's eyes were checking on Questloves signal! Amazing how intune they are to each other considering how they are all in their own zones jamming 😍

[@crazypianolady]

I think they would have still rehearsed it and They’ll know each section, they’re just going with the flow in terms of how many bars they playing from each section and looking to QL for direction. Questlove is a great leader!

[@Whawhanepiece]

He said for the movie he wanted to play the roles of not only musicians but musicians growing up around that time so he wanted them to play like amateurs who don’t really understand music it’s kinda weird but it’s supposed to fit the theme of the movie but he was interviewed about it you should watch it

[@_fogell]

Julian Bizarro where can i watch it