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The Legendary Roots Crew at NPR's Tiny Desk (2017)

The video’s Youtube page says:

“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.”

Setlist:

  • "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)

Important People:

  • 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


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  • Purchase The Roots’ music at Amazon