The Root 100 is taking place once again at Harlem’s illustrious Apollo Theatre on December 5. The event will feature unforgettable performances, as we honor Black excellence. From host Roy Wood Jr. to appearances from the likes of Jon Batiste and Misty Copeland, here are all the stars you’ll see—and hear—at this year’s Root 100.
This year, comedian and former correspondent for Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, Roy Wood Jr. will host The Root 100. Not only is his commentary witty and honest, it shines a light on the plight of Black America. We can’t wait to hear what he has to say.
Grammy and Oscar-winning singer, songwriter and composer Jon Batiste was the first honoree announced from this year’s Root 100 list and will be a special guest at the December 5 event. He will receive our very first “Voice and Vision” Award.
This Grammy-nominated performer is a contemporary harpist that combines elements of soul, jazz and funk in her music. Younger plans to bring her skills to the Apollo stage. We can’t wait to see it.
Leslie Odom Jr. caught the world’s attention with his breakout performance as Aaron Burr in the hit musical “Hamilton.” This year, Odom will be honored at The Root 100 with the “Stage and Style” Award for his contributions to the arts.
Karine Jean-Pierre is the first Black person and first openly LGBTQ person to serve as White House Press Secretary and we can’t wait to honor her political contributions at The Root 100.
Doug E. Fresh is a hip hop legend who helped the world celebrate 50 years of hip-hop. The renowned performer led the summer celebration tour “Masters of the Mic: Hip Hop 50 Tour” alongside Big Daddy Kane, EPMD, KRS One, Rakim, and Slick Rick. At The Root 100, Doug E. Fresh will be honored for his epic career.
The world-renowned ballerina made a touching appearance at The Root Institute last year. In addition, Misty Copeland has skills as an actor and made her on-screen debut in the short film, “Flowers,” which was shown at the Tribeca Film Festival. We cannot wait to celebrate all of her talents.
Dr. Olajide A. Williams is a world-renowned physician and vice dean of Community Health at the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. In 2006, Williams collaborated with Doug E. Fresh to form Hip Hop Public Health which provides “research-based educational resources by harnessing the power of music.” Both men will be celebrated on December 5.
Irreversible Entanglements first encountered each other at an event protesting police brutality. The jazz group consists of saxophonist Keir Neuringer, poet Camae Ayewa, bassist Luke Stewart, trumpeter Aquiles Navarro and drummer Tcheser Holmes. This poetic facet will definitely light up the Apollo stage.
Today show star Al Roker has been a vital media figure for decades. He’s managed to overcome some major health issues and will be celebrated for his journalistic contributions on December 5.