The Roots are an influential American hip hop band from Philadelphia, formed in 1987 by vocalist Black Thought and drummer Questlove. Celebrated for their innovative blend of hip hop with live instrumentation and jazz influences, The Roots have earned widespread critical acclaim. They are best known as the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, a role they began on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon in 2009. Current key members include Captain Kirk Douglas, Mark Kelley, James Poyser, Ian Hendrickson-Smith, Damon Bryson, Stro Elliot, Dave Guy, Kamal Gray, and Raymond Angry. Hailed as one of hip hop's greatest groups, The Roots continue to impact music both through their recordings and dynamic live performances, while individual members are also active in various side projects across music and entertainment.