The Roots debut 'How I Got Over' on 'Jimmy Fallon': Watch it here

Remember when everyone was all concerned about what would happen to the Roots’ career once they became Late Night With Jimmy Fallon‘s house band? Well, it’s been nearly four months now, and the legendary Roots crew is very much still standing. Their schedule as Fallon’s sidemen is leaving them plenty of room to tour as part of the Rock the Bells fest this summer. They’ve also been recording their ninth studio album, How I Got Over, for a planned fall release. And last night, they took advantage of their position to debut that album’s title track on Fallon’s show, giving it a level of national exposure they might not otherwise have been able to swing this far in advance of the album’s release. Going to work at NBC is looking like a pretty savvy move now, isn’t it?

Check out “How I Got Over” below (clip spotted at Nah Right). It’s a winner, matching the politically aware lyrics the Roots have explored more and more on their recent albums with a downright jubilant funk backdrop. Love how Black Thought channels his inner James Brown! To watch this performance is to be reminded that whatever their day jobs might be, the Roots remain hands-down one of the most vital live acts working today.

So, Roots fans (and/or Fallon watchers), what do you think of “How I Got Over”? Are you looking forward to the album that shares its title? Speak up!

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