Photo by Seher (@rehes) for Okayplayer.
It has long been the goal of Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter and Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson to turn their annual concert series into something like a Bonnaroo or Lollapalooza. So, it goes without saying that the Roots Picnic 2016 was a step in the right direction. With acts such as Usher, Future, Kaytranada and Metro Boomin’ on the bill, the 9th Annual Roots Picnic pulled in swells of people who all came to have a great time. One of the most standout performances of the event came from Earl Simmons, known to a whole generation as DMX, who lit up the venue with his 10,000-watt, energetic soul.
Joined by his producer-in-crime, Swizz Beatz (who had his own set, btw), the former Ruff Ryder rapper needed no hype man, didn’t do any cheap pops and came with his all for the raucous Philly crowd. The Yonkers-native was so super-charged that he jumped on one of the giant stage speakers to perform his standout hit, “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” that drove the Festival Pier crowd into a frenzy. Seeing Dark Man X live-and-in-living-color was a treat and a delight, given his recent health issues, and witnessing him connect with the crowd proved that the former Def Jam rapper earned his legendary status.
“I’ve seen my children be born. I’ve bought shit I never thought I could afford,” DMX said, monologuing to the crowd. He would then, in front of 10,000-plus attendees, bring his own father on to the stage to keep it extra funky with the Roots Picnic audience. “I’ve been reunited with my parents. But this shit right here n****?! I’m saying being onstage in front of people that love you is better than [any] b**** p**** I ever had.” The footprint of the festival has been expanding, and with certified stars like DMX on the bill, the Roots Picnic 2016 is that much closer to dominating the summer every year.
With love being the direct theme of the 9th Annual Roots Picnic, the City of Brotherly Love shared their hearts with everyone who came out to party + shake their arse to these good tunes. Even as X would say, “There’s no greater blessing than being love,” so, with that in mind, for those who weren’t able to attend, please show your love for DMX as he performs “Up In Here” for your viewing pleasure.
Unleash your inner canine by checking out the Dark Man X’s shop by clicking here.
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