Nelly, John Legend, Jeremih + More Rock Night 1 Of Roots Jam Session 2016 In L.A.

Kehlani, John Legend, Nelly + More Bless The Stage at The Roots Jam Session, Night One

Valentine's Day is upon us, The Grammys are right around the corner...you all know what that means! Yup. It's time for another edition of the now legendary Roots Jam Sessions. Now in its 10th year, the 2016 edition of the star-filled musical series launched with Kehlani, John Legend, Nelly, and countless others at The Hotel Café in L.A. Sponsored by Beats by Dre, Serato, and Martell cognac, the intimate venue buzzed with the energy of music lovers, performers, tastemakers, and the like. The ladies were truly running the show, with the soundtrack of the evening provided by Ms.Nix, hosted by Amanda Seales BKA Amanda Diva. Okayplayer was front and center to capture it all.

The evening of performances kicked off just after 10:30 PM with the sultry sounds of first-time Grammy nominee, Kehlani. She rocked the crowd with her sexy tomboy style, captivating the audience with her slow jam, “The Way” (Chance The Rapper was not present for his verse, but the Bay-Area native held her own nonetheless).

Throughout the evening, The Roots took the stage to perform their hits, along with backing many of the featured musicians of the night. “Break You Off” sounded as smooth as ever, followed up by a spirited instrumental of “Do It In The Butt.” Yes, spirited. John Legend shared the stage with The Roots on piano, performing an extended set of gems from their joint album, Wake Up, particularly their cover of the Bill Withers classic Vietnam war song, “I Can’t Write Left Handed.”

Bilal electrified the stage in an effortless fashion, freestyling a tune highlighting the turmoil in Flint, Michigan. His voice exclaimed, “I’m brown like Flint!” bringing light to all unjust situations in our news today. He ended his short but engaging set with a rendition of his hit, “Soul Sister.”

Jeremy Ellis brought the heat on his MPC, wowing the audience with his skills in recreating tunes from your favorite childhood video games. Another Grammy nominee, Tori Kelly radiated superstar-in-the making with her powerful cover of Michael Jackson’s “Butterflies.” Jeremih crooned his hits “Planes” and “Don’t Tell 'Em” for the ladies, getting the crowd active.

The night closed with Nelly backed by The Roots. For a worthy trip down memory lane, he performed “E.I”; “Country Grammar”; “Ride With Me” and “Hot In Herre.” The energy of the room vibrated for a full sing-a-long of his hits and a whole lot of dancing! Ending with a cover of Marvin Gaye's “Sexual Healing,” Nelly brought his charisma to the stage, and the room was all about it.

Shout outs to Leon Bridges and Goapele who were in the building as well...and stay tuned for night two!