John Legend & the Roots, 'Our Generation' (J. Period Remix)' -- New Song

On their new song, 'Our Generation' (J.Period Remix),' John Legend and the Roots take on the '70s musical tropes and inspirations, mix in some contemporary urban vibes, and create an entirely new sound.

At its core, 'Our Generation' is a wake-up call to today's youth, and a reminder that the world's future lies in the hands of its youngest inhabitants. The song, which features contributions from Pete Rock and CL Smooth, is clearly rooted in the musical sounds and styles of the '60s and '70s of Marvin Gaye, Bill Withers, Nina Simone, and Donny Hathaway, when music was created not only to entertain, but to affect change.

As the song's groove rolls along, the words of Legend and his ensemble ring more resonantly within listeners today than perhaps ever before. By the time the song winds up, fans are left with only one, all-too important message: "Our generation, it's all left up to us."

'Our Generation' is the first single off of 'Wake Up,' a mixtape from Legend and the Roots due out on Sept. 21. For a free download on Sept. 14 only, click here. To hear 'Our Generation,' tune in to the New R&B First station on AOL Radio.