PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — For many Philadelphians, the summer feels a little closer now that the performance lineup for the 2025 Roots Picnic has dropped.
The two-day music festival founded by Philly rap legends the Roots returns to the Mann Center for the Performing Arts on May 31 and June 1 with a trio of heavy-hitting headliners: Meek Mill, Lenny Kravitz and D’Angelo, who will be backed by the Roots.
Also appearing will be Philly R&B sensation Musiq Soulchild; Miguel; Tems; Jeezy; 2 Chainz and Pusha T, performing with The Roots’ Black Thought; the Backyard Band with Ceelo Green; DJs Diamond Kuts and Funk Flex; and ‘90s R&B divas CeCe Peniston and Crystal Waters.
There will be something for music fans of every age, like 19-year-old Queen from North Philly. “I actually don’t know who D’Angelo is. I know Jeezy though,” she said.
For Queen, it’s a generational thing — and in her opinion, the ‘90s soul superstar slowed the lineup a bit. “I’m shocked that he’s headlining because I don’t know who he is,” she said. “I think my generation is most likely into the newer stuff.”
Shannon, 20, and James, 32, both think his inclusion is questionable. But both say the combination of new and old artists, plus the Roots Picnic debut of Philly-born Meek Mill, sold them on this summer’s event. “That’s a good lineup,” said James, from West Philly. “2 Chainz, Soulchild … that’s solid.”
Shannon travels from Long Island every year for the picnic and, D’Angelo aside, she says the 2025 lineup is one of the best so far. When asked who she’s looking forward to seeing most, Shannon had a number of answers. “Funk Flex, Musiq Soulchild, Tems, Glorilla and Meek,” she said. “Definitely Jeezy.”
James says the festival has always centered community across generations, something this lineup reflects.
“You’ve got a combination of the old school and the new school … coming together and making the blend, and just representing the culture. That’s what it’s all about.”