Jay-Z is making his grand return to the stage for the first time in nearly a year with a headlining performance alongside The Roots at the Roots Picnic 2026., according to Variety Music.
Stereogum also noted that jay-Z and the Roots go way, way back. In 2001, when Jay-Z taped his MTV Unplugged special, and he tapped the Roots to serve as his backing band. The result was awesome.
The joint performance will close out the first day of the Philadelphia festival on Saturday, May 30th. (Consequence)
Local Watch
While the Roots Picnic is heading to Philadelphia, the band’s deep connection to Los Angeles remains undeniable, having famously backed Jay-Z for his iconic 2001 MTV Unplugged performance right here in the City of Angels. Their enduring influence, especially within hip-hop’s vibrant LA scene, makes any new collaboration with Hov a cause for celebration among local fans.
Last updated March 18, 2026.