Philly 4th celebration kicks off with comedian's birthday tribute

Kevin Hart kicked off his hosting duties at the Philly 4th of July Jam in Pennsylvania by insisting the crowds at the big bash sing him Happy Birthday.

The Philadelphia native took to the stage at The Roots' annual Independence Day bash in the city wearing a stars and stripes vest with the word 'freedom' printed on the front, and declared, "I'm home".

He then added, "It's my birthday weekend right now... Before we start this show... I've got a chance to set a record and have five million people sing me Happy Birthday.

"I don't want the old school Happy Birthday, I want (Stevie Wonder's) Happy Birthday."

The Roots then started playing the classic tune onstage as the crowd sang along and Hart danced, stating, "I love you Philadelphia".

The celebration also featured another Philadelphia native Jill Scott, as well as Grace Potter, John Mayer, J. Cole, Ne-Yo and Hunter Hayes, who stepped in at the last minute to replace sick Demi Lovato.