How did I miss this? Thanks to Jose for the tip.

Frankly, I’m a little shocked that the Roots aren’t the headliners for this show, June 14 at Mesa Amphitheatre. But the tour is called the “New Amerykah Tour”: Erykah Badu with the Roots. Tickets ($33 prices not announced) go on sale Saturday via Ticketmaster.

Ah, but nothing beats an outdoor show in the middle of summer in Arizona. For the Roots, I’d do just about anything. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen them live – back when they were big enough only for clubs. Their “Hip-Hop 101” portion of their live shows should not be missed.

They are on tour in support of Rising Down, due out April 29.

Here’s the video for 75 Bars (Black’s Reconstruction). (And, yes, I’m totally biased in terms of who I want to see at this show):