Black Thought

The Roots Co-founder, Grammy-winning Artist, Broadway Producer

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Black Thought Biography

Tariq Trotter, known widely as Black Thought, is the co-founder and frontman of the influential Philadelphia live hip-hop band, The Roots. Celebrated for pioneering what is now recognized as the “Philly Sound,” Trotter has been a central figure in shaping the narrative and aesthetics of contemporary hip-hop through the band. Beyond The Roots, his solo career, highlighted by the "Streams of Thought" series, has allowed him to explore and express different facets of his musical and lyrical creativity.

Throughout his career, Black Thought has released eleven albums with The Roots, who have also served as the house band for "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" for over a decade. His work extends beyond music; he has appeared in films and TV shows including HBO’s "The Deuce" and "Tick, Tick… Boom!" directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Trotter has also ventured into theatre, composing and starring in the 2022 Off-Broadway production "Black No More," which received a nomination for "Best Musical" at the Lucile Lortel Awards.

In addition to his musical and acting endeavors, Black Thought is an accomplished producer. Alongside Questlove, he co-produced the diamond-certified Original Broadway Cast Recording of "Hamilton." His recent musical projects include the 2022 albums "Cheat Codes" with Danger Mouse and "Glorious Game" with Leon Michels, both of which have been critically acclaimed. He has also co-founded the production company Two One Five Entertainment. Recognized as one of the greatest MCs by Rolling Stone and NPR, his lyrical prowess continues to be celebrated across the industry.

Black Thought's influence extends into his literary pursuits as well. He has announced the release of his first-ever memoir, "The Upcycled Self," set to be published on November 14th via One World. As he continues to innovate and inspire in the realms of music, film, and literature, Black Thought remains a pivotal figure in not only hip-hop but also in broader cultural discussions.

Black Thought Speaking Topics

  • Exchanging Ideas, Long Sessions, Loose Vibes and Creativity

Black Thought Videos

  • Harvard i-lab | Tariq Trotter, aka Black Thought Freestyle at Other ...

FAQs on booking Black Thought

  • How do I book Black Thought to speak at my event?

    Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Black Thought for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Black Thought, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Black Thought or any other speaker of your choice.
  • What are the speaker fees for Black Thought

    Speaking fees for Black Thought, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Black Thought are for live events and for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Black Thought, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does Black Thought speak about?

    Black Thought is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Celebrity, College, Diversity & Inclusion, Entertainers, Literary, Music.
  • Where does Black Thought travel from?

    Black Thought generally travels from an undisclosed location, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
  • Who is Black Thought’s agent?

    AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like Black Thought for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Black Thought for your next private or corporate function.
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    AAE Speakers Bureau is a full-service speaker booking agency, meaning we can completely manage the speaker’s or celebrity’s engagement with your organization from the time of booking your speaker through the event’s completion. We provide all of the services you need to host Black Thought or any other speaker of your choice, including offer negotiation, contractual assistance, accounting and billing, and event speaker travel and logistics services. When you book a speaker with us, we manage the process of hosting a speaker for you as an extension of your team. Our goal is to give our clients peace of mind and a best-in-class service experience when booking a speaker with us.
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Black Thought is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Exchanging Ideas, Long Sessions, Loose Vibes and Creativity. The estimated speaking fee range to book Black Thought for your event is $20,000 - $30,000. Black Thought generally travels from and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Talib Kweli, Yasiin Bey, Saul Williams, Tyrese Gibson and Questlove. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Black Thought for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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