Glorious Game

Black Thought (born Tariq Luqmaan Trotter on October 3, 1973) is a highly celebrated American rapper, singer, and actor, widely regarded as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history. As the co-founder and lead MC of the legendary, live-instrumentation hip-hop band The Roots, his career spans over three decades of influential music and cultural storytelling. Here are the essential highlights of his life and career. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Trotter faced immense personal tragedy during his formative years. Before his first birthday, his father was killed. He lost his mother to the crack epidemic and violence while he was in high school. Despite these hardships, he channeled his energy into the arts, attending Philadelphia’s prestigious High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA).