The Roots formed in 1987 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, when students Tariq 'Black Thought' Trotter and Ahmir 'Questlove' Thompson met at the Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts. Initially performing as the Square Roots on street corners with Questlove on bucket drums, they released their independent debut album Organix in 1993 after moving briefly to Europe. Signing with DGC/Geffen, they issued major-label albums including Do You Want More?!!!??! (1995), Things Fall Apart (1999), which reached number four on the Billboard 200, and Phrenology (2002). Known for their live instrumentation distinguishing them in hip hop, The Roots blend jazz, soul, and funk elements. They have earned multiple Grammy Awards, including for 'You Got Me' in 2000. Since 2009, they have served as the house band for Late Night with Jimmy Fallon and subsequently The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The band is recognized for dynamic live performances featuring extended jams and improvisation, a hallmark since their early busking days and festival appearances.