This past weekend, the Roots Picnic festival returned to the heart of Philadelphia for an exciting three days of music excellence. A record-breaking number of fans turned out in support and excitement to witness live performances, panels rooted in communal progression and podcasts that speak to the culture.

It was a beautiful start to the beginning of Black Music Month. A variety of once-in-a-lifetime reunions and collaborations took place, making the Roots Picnic one of the most anticipated events of the summer. Philly-based group State Property reunited on stage to perform in front of fans who have long awaited their return. Lauryn Hill, Pras Michel and Wyclef Jean joined forces for a Fugees' reunion that many have longed for as well.

On the last night of the festival, Usher, Eve and Jazmine Sullivan gave epic renditions of their hits and reprised The Roots's iconic song "You Got Me" alongside the event's namesake band.


Here are some of the most memorable moments from the Roots Picnic weekend.

Lauryn Hill with Peas Michel of the Fugees. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Lauryn Hill with Peas Michel of the Fugees. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Usher performing at the Roots Picnic. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Usher performing at the Roots Picnic. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Black Thought performs while Jazmine Sullivan and Usher share a moment dancing. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Black Thought performs while Jazmine Sullivan and Usher share a moment dancing. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
(left-right) Jazmine Sullivan, Eve, Usher and Black Thought on stage. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
(left-right) Jazmine Sullivan, Eve, Usher and Black Thought on stage. Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
Image: courtesy of Anthony Artis
busta rhymes
eve
jazmine sullivan
lauryn hill
pras michel
roots picnic
state property
the fugees
the roots
usher
wyclef jean