The Roots are officially preparing for a major return. After more than 10 years without a new studio album, the legendary hip-hop band has revealed that their next project, Endgame, is nearly complete.
Founding members Black Thought and Questlove shared the update during a new interview with Billboard, where the group was being honored for its induction into the publication’s Hip-Hop Hall of Fame. The announcement immediately caught attention because fans have been waiting years for a full-length Roots album.
Endgame will mark The Roots’ first studio album since 2014’s ...And Then You Shoot Your Cousin. That project arrived during a difficult period for the band, as longtime co-manager and producer Richard Nichols passed away the same year. His death had a major emotional impact on the group and became part of the long journey that followed.
According to reports, the new album process has been guided in part by Live Nation Urban president and longtime Roots manager Shawn Gee. The creative direction is said to bring the band back to the free-flowing jam sessions that helped define their original sound. That detail is important because The Roots built their reputation on live musicianship, deep grooves, sharp lyricism, and a natural chemistry that separates them from most hip-hop acts.
While there is no official release date yet, the fact that Black Thought and Questlove say the album is almost finished makes this update feel stronger than past comeback teases. Over the years, fans have heard hints about new Roots music, but Endgame appears to be moving closer to a real release.
The announcement comes during an active year for the group. The Roots made major noise at the Roots Picnic, where Jay-Z headlined and delivered a widely discussed a cappella freestyle. The band performed alongside him, creating one of the festival’s biggest moments and reminding fans of their ability to elevate live hip-hop performances.
Questlove has also continued expanding his creative work outside of the band. His recent Earth, Wind & Fire documentary added to his growing reputation as a filmmaker and cultural historian. Meanwhile, The Roots also performed at the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, another major moment that reflects their place in both music and American culture.
Black Thought has also remained busy as a solo artist and collaborator. Reports say he has more music on the way, including work connected to Danger Mouse and Mach-Hommy. His continued output has kept fans engaged while The Roots’ next group album slowly came together.
The return of The Roots is especially meaningful because of the band’s unique place in hip-hop history. Since forming in Philadelphia, they have become one of the most respected groups in the genre, known for blending rap, jazz, soul, funk, and live instrumentation. Their catalog includes classic work, acclaimed performances, and decades of influence on artists who value musicianship and lyricism.
Endgame could represent more than just another album. It may serve as a reflection of everything The Roots have experienced over the past decade, including loss, growth, creative evolution, television success, festivals, solo projects, and cultural milestones. After years away from releasing a full group album, the band has plenty of life, perspective, and history to bring into the music.
For now, fans are still waiting for details such as the release date, tracklist, features, and production credits. But with Black Thought and Questlove confirming that the album is nearly done, excitement is already building.
Whether Endgame arrives later this year or sometime after, it is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases in The Roots’ career. After a decade away from full-length studio albums, the legendary band appears ready to begin its next chapter.