Root Road

Artist Information

Biography

Root Road's Christian pop sound blends melodic vocal harmonies, with familiar elements found in both past and present popular music to create a unique and uplifting sound.

The band’s self produced sophomore EP entitled “I Am Here” is reminiscent of an earlier era, with familiar influences from popular artists of the 70’s. In keeping with their upbeat music, the group chose to write optimistic songs that provide a refreshing alternative to popular music that is normally birthed out of negative feelings, broken relationships, and selfish behavior. In direct contrast with this trend, Root Road’s heartwarming, God-inspired lyrics convey a positive outlook on life with songs about unfailing love, hope, peace and answers to life’s many problems.

All brothers, the members of Root Road were born into an interracial family; thus their multicultural look. The band believes their global look has allowed their music to transcend racial lines. In a world of different cultural interpretations, the band feels the need to share their music with anyone who will listen, as opposed to conforming to one ethnic group or another.

Family has and continues to be a strong influence on their lives and songwriting. Originally from Lorain, Ohio, the brothers grew up in a musically oriented Christian home where singing, songwriting and performing were all seen as an expression of love and worship to God. The youngest three of seven siblings, each member of Root Road makes their own unique contribution to song development creating a fusion of rock, pop and soul in their music and style.

John, the oldest of the three, plays rhythm guitar, shares lead vocals and introduces modern rock influences to the mix. Anthony supports the group with backup vocals and catchy keyboard, piano, and organ. Nathanael, the youngest, plays harmonica and tambourine and injects everything from a retro soul to a playful pop. He also shares the lead vocals with John.

The brother’s musical journey as a group began early in the 2000’s when under the management of their father, a former professional entertainer; they formed a band called G3 BAND. Their band initially performed at local festivals, schools, and regional events including performing at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland as a finalist in the Northeastern Ohio Christian Talent Competition.

After each of the band members completed college they decided to take a step in faith, and relocate to Nashville, Tennessee under the new band name, Root Road. This move would allow the band to transition into a full-time ministry which would broaden their audience and reach out to more than those in their hometown.

The name Root Road is derived from a couple of elements. Literally, it was the street that all of them grew up on, but to the band it has become more than just familiar stomping grounds. To them Root Road symbolizes the spiritual quest to find connection, security and life.

Instrumentation

John Gilkes - Lead Vocalist, rhythm guitars
Anthony Gilkes - Vocals, keyboard, Electric Guitar.
Nathanael Gilkes - Harmonica, Lead Vocals, Accordian, Piano.

Discography

Three Track Mini EP 2010
Christmas Time - Single 2010
I Am Here 2008
Masterpiece 2005

Links

• Facebook
• MySpace
• Last.fm
• Shout Life
• You Tube
• Reverb Nation

Audio

• By Your Side
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• Masterpiece
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• Someone
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• Time
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• Christmas Time
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Lyrics

• By Your Side
• Masterpiece
• Someone
• Time
• Christmas Time

Video

Photo Gallery

Press

• I Love Root Road's Music! It's refreshing! [+ Show ]
  

  I like Root Road’s music! It’s refreshing! They have the look, the sound, the talent, the spirit an...I like Root Road’s music! It’s refreshing! They have the look, the sound, the talent, the spirit and the material.

• Phenominal Job...Loved it! [+ Show ]
  

  Root Road did a phenominal jobwith their family harmony and their heart for God, Loved it! I was bl...Root Road did a phenominal jobwith their family harmony and their heart for God, Loved it! I was blessed by their talent and their heart to give into the work of New Generation Church. Just simply over the top!

• I believe that you would be greatly blessed to have Root Road come and minister at your church. [+ Show ]
  

  I am the Senior Pastor at House of Praise International Church in Lorain, Ohio. I am writing to you ...I am the Senior Pastor at House of Praise International Church in Lorain, Ohio. I am writing to you in behalf of the worship band, Root Road.
  
  I have known John Gilkes, one of the band members of Root Road for several years. He is a young man of integrity and is passionate about his work as a music artist.
  Root Road performed at one of our Sunday services this year and modeled a high level of professionalism. We enjoyed the music and felt that they helped to lead the congregation into a true worship experience with the Lord. I believe that you would be greatly blessed to have Root Road come and minister at your church.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  Gilbert Silva, Senior Pastor
  House of Praise International Church

• Root Road made me look like a genius, by having them perform at our fair this year! [+ Show ]
  

  Root Road, thank you for your wonderful performance at this year's 2010 Lorain County Fair. Your smo...Root Road, thank you for your wonderful performance at this year's 2010 Lorain County Fair. Your smooth harmonizing, well written songs, and youthful energizing music was just the ticket for our stage this year. You truly enjoy the music you perform, and it shows with your stage presence. Root Road made me look like a genius, by having them perform at our fair this year. Whatever it takes to have you back for 2011, I will do so. Good luck to you in future, and keep us in mind for 2011.

• I can wholeheartedly recommend Root Road! [+ Show ]
  

  Root Road played an evening show for New Heights Chapel in July, 2010, and we were very pleased with...Root Road played an evening show for New Heights Chapel in July, 2010, and we were very pleased with the quality of their work. The band's harmonies, melodies, instrumentation, and positive uplifting message were perfect for our event. The Gilkes brothers were wonderful to work with, and went above and beyond to please our concert-goers. I can wholeheartedly recommend Root Road to any entity looking to have a positive impact on its community. Our show marked the third time I have seen the band in concert, and each performance has possessed these traits. Just an outstanding band and a great group of young men!

• Root Road is a real blessing! [+ Show ]
  

  Root Road's music is uplfiting and encouraging and brings a great message. Their harmony is outstand...Root Road's music is uplfiting and encouraging and brings a great message. Their harmony is outstanding. Root Road is a real blessing!
  

• They were bold and unapologetic in their faith - truly an encouragement to us all. [+ Show ]
  

  Root Root has a unique blend of vocal harmonies and stage energy that draws the audience into their ...Root Root has a unique blend of vocal harmonies and stage energy that draws the audience into their performance. We hosted the group at our Fourth of July Celebration; it was an excellent concert and we were blessed by the music and the testimony of the Lord’s work in their lives. They were bold and unapologetic in their faith - truly an encouragement to us all. Dr. Mark Gregory, Senior Pastor, Calvary Baptist Church, Murfreesboro, Tn.

• "...Some of the best musicianship on this side of heaven" [+ Show ]
  

  Root Road posses some of the best musicianship on this side of heaven that crosses cultures and genr...Root Road posses some of the best musicianship on this side of heaven that crosses cultures and genres and I would recommend them to any Church or venue that's looking to have some great music ministered by minstrels of great humility.

• "... One of the great pop Christmas songs of the year." [+ Show ]
  

  "Christmas Time" by Root Road is one of the great pop Christmas songs of the year. I've been playin..."Christmas Time" by Root Road is one of the great pop Christmas songs of the year. I've been playing it over and over and only tonight did I look to see who was doing it [...] "Christmas Time" is upbeat and positive and full of Christmas cheer. So go wherever you have to go, but get this terrific pop Christmas song. It'll bring a smile to your face, I'm bettin', like it did to mine.

• "...I give them an A+" [+ Show ]
  

  “Not only was Root Road’s music and stage presence great, but the relationship they share as brother...“Not only was Root Road’s music and stage presence great, but the relationship they share as brothers, on and off the stage, is evident. I watched the crowd during the show to get everyone’s reaction and see if they were engaged, and for that, I give them an A+. Root Road’s music definitely got the crowd’s attention, and their performance kept it. [...] These guys have a real talent and I believe God has great things in store for them, both in their music profession and in their personal lives. I hope there is an opportunity to have Root Road back to Bonhoeffer’s or The Church @ Cross Point in the future.”
  
  Debbie Haxton 11/10/2009
  Bonhoeffer’s Coffee House
  

• "...A Perfect Fit For A Family Event" [+ Show ]
  

  We were fortunate to have Root Road be part of the entertainment at the Taste of Stones River 2009. ...We were fortunate to have Root Road be part of the entertainment at the Taste of Stones River 2009.
  The performance was excellent and received many compliments from those attending the event. They
  are a perfect fit for a family event. They were very easy to work with and very professional. I look forward
  to working with them in the future!
  
  August 22nd 2009

• "We would recommend them to any church..." [+ Show ]
  

  Root Road just recently performed at our church and we are really excited about their ministry. We ...Root Road just recently performed at our church and we are really excited about their ministry. We would recommend them to any church or organization that is looking for a group that comes with passion and integrity. These guys really love the Lord and it shows in their music.
  
  June 26th, 2009

• "...Their Passion And Energy Was Amazing" [+ Show ]
  

  We extremely enjoyed our concert here with Root Road. Their Passion and energy was amazing, while t...We extremely enjoyed our concert here with Root Road. Their Passion and energy was amazing, while their lyrics and message was even better! They exceeded my expectations by far and I would highly recommend them to anyone interested in booking them. Their professionalism was refreshing and I believe they can go far and touch a lot of people along the way!
  
  May 16th, 2009

• "I Encourage Anyone To Listen To Their Music" [+ Show ]
  

  We have been blessed today by Root Road! They are the most wonderful and humble people. I encourage...We have been blessed today by Root Road! They are the most wonderful and humble people. I encourage anyone to listen to their music because I know it will be a blessing to you.
  
  July, 2008

• i am here [+ Show ]
  

  "i am here" is an infectious feel-good CD with a little something for everyone. I am hooked on the e..."i am here" is an infectious feel-good CD with a little something for everyone. I am hooked on the excellent harmonies and the wholesome God-inspired lyrics. It is hard to pick a favorite tune because they all shine! The thought-provoking songs edify the soul and make this cd a poignant delight!... Kudos to Ernie, John, Anthony, and Nathanael for a job well done! ...This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. John 15:8...

Setlist

1.) Someone
2.) Just To Be
3.) Life
4.) Save Me
5.) The Odds
6.) Masterpiece
7.) By Your Side
8.) Wisdom
9.) I Am Here
10.) Taste And See

Basic Requirements

Calendar