Roy Wood Jr.’s Funniest Moments, See Where Previous Root 100 Honorees Are Now, Get Tips On How to Dress for the Gala, Listen to Great Music From Top Black Artists on the Root 100 list

As we count down to The Root 100 Gala on December 5 at the Apollo Theater, we’re talking about the honorees, what to wear, what to listen to

Did One of Your Faves Make the 2024 Root 100 List?

Whether breaking records at the Olympic Games, delivering award-winning performances on the stage and screen, or fighting for underserved communities, Black people have accomplished some amazing things in 2024, and we couldn’t let the year end without celebrating it all. Now in its 15th year, The Root 100 list is here and better than ever. We spent months looking back at the year’s highlights to curate a list of the Black actors, activists, athletes and more who have had the biggest impact on the culture in 2024. Although some on this list are household names, you’ll also find new rising stars in practically every category. — Tatsha Robertson

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3 Ways to Think Like a Businessman, According to Executive Walter Davis

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The Root 100 Host Roy Wood Jr.’s Funniest Moments and Comments Over the Years

Photo: Getty Images Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for UCLA

Roy Wood Jr. is a longtime stand-up comedian who has been making people across the country laugh for years. Which is why he was the perfect host for The Root 100 in 2023 and why he’ll be returning for 2024 The Root 100 this Dec. 5. With that in mind, let’s look back at some of his funniest moments throughout the years. — Noah A. McGee

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2024 The Root 100 Ultimate Music Playlist

Photo: Getty Images

Now in its 15th year, The Root 100 list is loaded with some of the best and brightest in the Black community in 2024. While there are plenty of athletes, actors and politicians on the list, it’s hard to deny the impact musical artists have had on the culture this year as well. — Angela Johnson

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The Root 100: Where Are They Now?

Photo: Getty Images Getty Images

Upon the announcement of The Root 100 celebration of 2024, it’s important we acknowledge some of our previous honorees and answer your looming question: “Where are they now?” — Kalyn Womack

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The Evolution of Ledisi: 2024 Root 100 Headliner

Ledisi speaks onstage at An Evening With Ledisi at GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live on July 16, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Getty Images Rebecca Sapp for The Recording Academy

If you’re looking for a voice that’s reminiscent of the jazz and soul artists of the past—look no further than singer Ledisi. After her third studio album in 2007 brought her not one but two Grammy nominations, the New Orleans-born, Oakland-bred singer was thrust into the spotlight and subsequently, into the hearts of music lovers around the country. — Shanelle Genai

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2024 Root 100: Men, You Can Wear Suits, Sneakers at Your Next Red Carpet Event Just like These Stars

Photo: L: Instagram, C, R: Getty Images

Red carpet season is upon us, and we can’t wait to see who shows up and shows out at The Root 100 gala. But if getting dressed up feels more like a punishment, you might want to rethink the kinds of shoes you’re wearing. These days, sneakers aren’t just for the gym. In fact, they’re totally appropriate for a red carpet event. If you don’t believe us, take it from some of your favorite stars. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite suit and sneaker looks and show you how to shop the look yourself. — Angela Johnson

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2024 THE ROOT 100: These Harlem Renaissance-Inspired Looks Will Make You Stand Out at Any Gala

Photo: L: Getty Images, R: Karen Millen

The Harlem Renaissance was a golden age of Black culture. An iconic period of our history, the time between 1920 and 1937 gave birth to Black literature, art, fashion and music that left a lasting impact on the world. — Angela Johnson

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