The Roots have announced that founding member Malik B. has died at the age of 47.

"It is with heavy hearts and tearful eyes that we regretfully inform you of the passing of our beloved brother and long time Roots member Malik Abdul Basit. May he be remembered for his devotion to Islam, his loving brotherhood and his innovation as one of the most gifted MCs of all time," the Roots wrote.

Malik B. was an official Roots member for the group's first four albums, and then a guest on a couple of their following albums.

The Roots have served as Jimmy Fallon's house band since 2009, and have a ton of side projects and collaborations going. Let's dig into some of these projects this morning.

For today's 9:30 Coffee Break, what Roots collaborations would you like to hear?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs played

The Roots - Game Theory feat. Malik B.
John Legend and The Roots - Hard Times
The Roots - Right On feat. Joanna Newsom
Elvis Costello and The Roots - Walk Us Uptown
The Roots and TV On The Radio - Turn Me Around
The Roots - You Got Me feat. Eryka Badu