Coronavirus might have cancelled everything from Coachella to Burning Man, but live music continues to live on, thanks to Michelle Obama (yes, the former American First Lady).
The star of Netflix documentary Becoming, will be bringing back to life ‘Roots Picnic’– a music festival that has been held for the past 13 years by hip-hop band The Roots. Not only that, but Obama herself will be co-hosting it.
The event usually takes place over the course of a weekend in Philadelphia. This year, they’re taking a different direction. The festival will be held online on June 27, and will include performances of artists like Solange, SZA, Lil Uzi Vert, Roddy Ricch, Lil Baby and Pharrell.
And it’s not just about music. Michelle Obama’s involvement is no coincidence; this year’s edition aims to encourage young people to go vote.
In addition to the concerts, some of your favourite journalists and activists have also been invited to take part in the live-streamed event. Former Teen Vogue Editor in Chief, Elaine Welteroth, Tracee Elliss Ross and Janelle Monae are on the roster, with an overarching mission to inspire a political revolution among young people.
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There couldn’t be a better time for such an event. Witnessing the tragic death of George Floyd in the midst of a pandemic has galvanised a new generation of activists globally, determined to demand change and ready to take action.
If you’re on a mission to fight for a better world, and want to listen to some really good music in the process—look further. Roots Picnic has made it possible. All you have to do is register here and bring all your friends.
