Welcome back to Takeover Tuesday, where each week Billboard taps chart-topping artists and tastemakers to compile their very own playlist exclusive to Billboard‘s Spotify account. We give the artists free rein to base the list on whatever subject they choose. The only rule? Make it as creative and unique to them as possible.
This week, lead MC of The Roots Black Thought has shared his personal playlist of songs to help prepare for the upcoming Roots Picnic.
Set to take place on June 3 in Philadelphia, the day-long music festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary with headliners such as Solange, Pharrell performing with The Roots (“Pharrell has a gazillion hits, but I’m a bigger fan of his deep album cuts — this is one of my favorite songs of his, the beat is insane,” Black Thought says of “Show You How To Hustle”), and Lil Wayne (Black Thought says Wayne’s track “BM J.R.” is “when Lil Wayne earned my respect, and when I knew Lil Wayne was top tier. I’m big on lyricism”).
Other acts include James Vincent McMorrow, Noname, PnB Rock (“Since we’re both from Philly, this song really hit home. No pun intended. I really like what he’s doing with his music,” says Black Thought) and more.
Give Black Thought’s picks a spin below.
“Show You How To Hustle” – Pharrell
“BM J.R.” – Lil Wayne
“My President” – Jeezy
“Losing You” – Solange
“Sneakin'” – Drake ft 21 Savage
“My City Need Something” – PnB Rock
“Don Cartagena” – Fat Joe
“You Got Me” – The Roots
“Get Away” – Mobb Deep
“Magnolia” – Playboi Carti