Kendrick Lamar’s latest video, “Squabble Up,” has reignited hope among fans for a new album from The Roots. The video, which pays homage to the legendary Philly rap group, has sparked excitement within the band and its followers.
Released on November 25, Kendrick Lamar’s video for ‘Squabble Up’ has created quite a buzz. Directed by Calmatic, it nods to The Roots’ 1999 classic ‘The Next Movement’ and other hip hop icons like Ice-T and Nate Dogg. This clip didn’t just serve as a tribute but also a catalyst for potential new music from The Roots.
Questlove, the famed drummer of The Roots, responded to the video on his Instagram Stories. Sharing a viral tweet that connected ‘Squabble Up’ with ‘The Next Movement,’ he exclaimed, ‘Damn now we GOTTA FINISH THIS LP huh? We back BABY!’ This statement sent waves of anticipation among fans who have been waiting over a decade for new material from the group.
In further conversations, Questlove thanked Kendrick Lamar for recognizing their influence, a sentiment he expressed on another Instagram post. He recounted meeting a fan in Germany, underscoring his affection for music. ‘My number one love is the music I create in @TheRoots — that is the fuel to my fire,’ Questlove shared, appreciating Lamar for spotlighting their enduring impact.
There is significant anticipation for the band’s fifteenth album, a project that has been long in the making. While The Roots have been busy as the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, individual members like Black Thought have pursued solo endeavors. Questlove himself has delved into directing and writing.
On his Questlove Supreme podcast, Questlove hinted at fresh inspiration for The Roots, mentioning how the new energy in hip hop pushed Black Thought to write an impressive number of tracks. Aiming for a special release date in 2025, Questlove is holding back the exact date, though some speculate it could coincide with significant anniversaries for the group.
In essence, Kendrick Lamar’s homage has fueled new excitement for The Roots, teasing the possibility of their highly anticipated album. Fans eagerly await what might be a spectacular return for the legendary group, marking a significant moment in hip hop history.
