Long reach of the Roots

The Roots have long been one of the leading forces in the kind of forward-looking, eclectic hip-hop that often gets categorized as “progressive” or “alternative.” Their 2006 release, “Game Theory,” is up for best rap album at Sunday’s Grammys.

So it’s a busy weekend, made still busier by a headlining concert at the Gibson Amphitheatre with the potent supporting bill of Jill Scott, Lupe Fiasco and Akon.

Their club date in Anaheim next week will be minus that lineup, but maybe they’ll have a new trophy to celebrate.

The Roots, with Jill Scott, Lupe Fiasco and Akon, Gibson Amphitheatre, 100 Universal Plaza, Universal City. 8:15 p.m. Saturday. $45 to $65. (818) 622-4440.

* The Roots also play at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim. 8:30 p.m. Wednesday. $35 in advance, $40 day of show. (714) 778-2583.