Here's your answer right here.<P>I know less than shit about promoting shows, but I know it costs more to send two guitarists, three or more mc's, two "human sound machines", one drummer, keyboardist, etc. and all their instruments to a moderately-sized venue than it costs to send Montell Jordan and a couple of DAT's to your local skating rink.<P>So when your local Hot97 clone has Destiny's Child, 702, Mack 10 and Juvenile all in one show, don't waste your time wondering why the Roots couldn't be there. It's counterproductive to set up for a 30 minute set. <P>So sit down and wait for your favorite major artist to tour, and hope that the Roots will open up for 'em. On the Lauryn Hill tour, I was treated to OutKast, who go through the motions just as effectively as she. <P>MrB