The Coachella crowd was surprised as Lauryn Hill appeared during her son YG Marley’s set.
After being on the stage for 15 minutes, Marley brought out Hill, who performed “Ex-Factor” and “Lost Ones.” She then welcomed Wyclef Jean to the stage for “Fu-Gee-La” and “Killing Me Softley.”
Four of hip-hops most iconic figures will be receiving high honors from a prestigious collective. According to AllHipHop, Lauryn Hill and trio De La Soul are being put into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame. It will be specifically for their debut albums. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill(1998) and 3 Feet High and Rising(1989) are both iconic in the hip-hop community. On April 21, they will officially be in rare air.
In a statement from the CEO, Harvey Mason Jr., he expressed his excitement to induct this year’s bunch. “We’re proud to unveil the diverse mix of recordings entering the Grammy Hall of Fame in its 50th year. The music showcased here has played a pivotal role in shaping our cultural landscape, and it’s a true honor to recognize these albums and recordings, along with the profound influence each has had on music and beyond.”
Some of the other notable artists making their way into immortality include The Doobie Brothers, Guns N’ Roses, and more. This event recognizing all of these tremendous works will be at The Novo in downtown Los Angeles, California. Furthermore, this will be the 50th anniversary for the Hall of Fame, making it all that more special. Congratulations to Lauryn Hill and De La Soul for these incredible achievements.
What are your thoughts on Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation and De La Soul’s 3 Feet High and Rising receiving spots the GRAMMY Hall of Fame? Are these top 10 all-time hip-hop records, why or why not? Which record do you go back to the most and why? What is the best song from each album? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Lauryn Hill, De La Soul, and the GRAMMY Hall of Fame. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the world of music.
In a recent episode of the 85 South Show, Fugees co-founder and solo artist Wyclef Jean discussed the financial impact that The Fugees had on the original songwriter of their hit “Killing Me Softly”, Lori Lieberman. Jean said that their version of the song amassed millions for Lieberman, who wrote and performed the song in 1972. The version that gained the most notoriety at the time was Roberta Flack’s version, which was recorded in 1973.
Wyclef stressed the importance of owning copyrights to songs to ensure financial success while speaking about Lieberman. Lieberman was still known to have a hard time receiving financial compensation and credit for the song’s global success.
On this date in 1994, crew members Wyclef Jean, Pras, and a young, talented Lauryn Hill otherwise known as The Fugees formulated their first album entitled Blunted On Reality on Hip Hop indie imprint Ruffhouse Records.
Not as familiar to Hip Hop heads as their follow-up smash sophomore album The Score, Blunted On Reality did not receive the commercial success their first go around, yielding only 12,000 copies sold in the first two years. After the release of The Score, that number jumped to 125K.
With Clef’s hands in every aspect of production, there were very few times when the Haitian national wasn’t behind the boards during the production of this album. Other producers include Salaam Remi, Brand X, Khallis Bayyan and even Pras.
Salute to the trio for bringing us this slept on classic!
In the world of music, where voices often fade into the cacophony, Lauryn Hill has always managed to pierce through the noise. Born on May 26, 1975, in South Orange, New Jersey, Lauryn Noelle Hill’s talents were apparent from a young age. Acting and singing were not mere hobbies but a calling. The early part of her musical journey was marked by a membership in the Fugees, a group that would redefine the hip-hop landscape.
Hill’s voice, a blend of strength and vulnerability, soul and wisdom, would set her on a path to becoming one of the most influential artists of her generation. This path, filled with artistic brilliance and personal challenges, led to her achieving a net worth of $10 million in 2024, according to FreshersLive.
Career Highlights & Accolades
MADRID, SPAIN – JULY 11: Lauryn Hill performs on stage during day 1 of Madcool Festival on July 11, 2019 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Mariano Regidor/Redferns)
Lauryn Hill’s career is often defined by one album: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Released in 1998, this magnum opus was a groundbreaking blend of R&B, hip-hop, reggae, and soul. It wasn’t just an album but a statement, a declaration of self, a lesson in love, life, and everything in between. Songs like “Doo Wop (That Thing)” and “Ex-Factor” were not mere tunes but anthems.
The accolades were swift and numerous, with Hill winning five Grammy Awards in one night, including Album of the Year, a feat unprecedented for a female artist at the time. But it wasn’t the awards that defined her; it was her authenticity. Her performances, whether on stage or on MTV Unplugged, were raw, real, and resonant. Further, her influence extended beyond music, with her acting roles in films like Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, showcasing a multi-dimensional artist who could captivate audiences in various mediums.
A Voice With A Vision: Personal Life & Highlights
NEW YORK – 1993: Hip hop group the Fugees (L-R Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill and Pras Michel) pose for a portrait backstage at the Manhattan Center in 1993 in New York City, New York. (Photo By Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Lauryn Hill’s personal life has been as complex and compelling as her music. A mother of six, her relationship with Rohan Marley, son of the legendary Bob Marley, has been a subject of much media attention. But beyond the headlines, Hill’s life is marked by her commitment to her children, her faith, and her continuous quest for artistic and personal integrity.
Her hiatus from public life and her battles with the industry are well documented. Yet, these challenges never overshadowed her essence. Her voice, whether in music or in interviews, always speaks of a woman unafraid to be herself, unapologetic in her pursuit of truth.
Melodies For A Mission: Business Ventures & Philanthropy
CLEVELAND, OH – APRIL 14: Recording artist Lauryn Hill pays tribute to Nina Simone during the 33rd Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Public Auditorium on April 14, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images For The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame)
Though not as prominent in business, Lauryn Hill’s endeavors extend beyond the musical sphere. Her limited but memorable collaborations with brands have shown a willingness to engage with commerce without compromising her values. More significantly, her philanthropic efforts, though often conducted away from the spotlight, resonate with her persona. Whether supporting education in Africa or championing causes that resonate with her principles, Hill’s philanthropy is as heartfelt as her music.
Conclusion
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 03: Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill, and Pras Michel of The Fugees perform during the 2023 The Roots Picnic at The Mann on June 03, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images for Live Nation Urban)
The narrative of Lauryn Hill is not just a tale of a talented artist but a chronicle of a woman who stood her ground in an industry that often demands conformity. Her net worth of $10 million is symbolic of a career that has chosen quality over quantity, substance over spectacle. Lauryn Hill’s music is her legacy, but her influence goes beyond the notes and the lyrics.
It lies in her courage, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to being true to herself. Her journey is a miseducation in itself, a lesson to those who dare to be different, to those who find strength in vulnerability, and to those who know that the true value of an artist lies not in their bank account but in the hearts they touch and the lives they inspire.
In the annals of hip-hop history, few groups have left an imprint as powerful as The Fugees. Comprising Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Pras Michel, this iconic genre-bending trio reshaped the musical landscape throughout their rise to prominence in the mid-1990s. The Fugees skyrocketed to fame with their foundational works including albums like Blunted On Reality and The Score. As the years have passed, each member of The Fugees has taken distinct paths, leaving fans curious about their modern endeavors. Here’s a look at what the trio have been doing since they split up in 2007.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 04: Singer Wyclef Jean performs onstage with The Fugees at Crypto.com Arena on November 04, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)
Since the dissolution of The Fugees, Wyclef Jean has navigated a diverse and dynamic solo career, showcasing his versatility as a musician, producer, and political activist. Wyclef’s solo work includes 9 studio albums, with the most recent outing, Wyclef Goes Back To School Volume 1 arriving in 2019. With chart-topping singles like “Gone Till November” and “Sweetest Girl (Dollar Bill)” as well as prominent features on tracks like Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” and T.I.’s “You Know What It Is” the Haitian rapper has solidified his position as a certified hit-maker.
Beyond music, Wyclef Jean actively participated in political and humanitarian causes, notably running for the presidency of Haiti in 2010. The “I Swear” vocalist also played a role in raising relief funds for Haiti following the devastating 2010 earthquake. Unfortunately, Jean’s venture into politics sparked controversy, as he faced accusations of defrauding donors with his organization Yéle Haiti and the Hope for Haiti Now telethon by diverting funds for personal enrichment.
Pras Michel
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 31: Pras Michel, a member of the 1990’s hip-hop group the Fugees, arrives at U.S. District Court on March 31, 2023 in Washington, DC. Michel is on trial for his alleged participation in a campaign finance conspiracy. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
Pras Michel has faced significant criticism as the main catalyst for The Fugees’ breakup, as reports frequently highlighted creative clashes between the rap vocalist and Lauryn Hill. Following the group’s disbandment in August 2007, Michel famously stated, “Before I work with Lauryn Hill again, you will have a better chance of seeing Osama bin Laden and [George W. Bush] in Starbucks having a latte, discussing foreign policies, before there will be a Fugees reunion.”
In the years since The Fugees disbanded, Pras Michel has ventured into a prolific career as a documentary filmmaker. In 2006, the Fugees rapper created and shot a film titled Skid Row, Los Angeles, which centered on his experience posing as a homeless person for nine days. Through the film, Michel captured the raw truth of homelessness in America, showcasing the hardships faced by the less fortunate. He followed this project up with similar documentaries in 2009 and 2015 respectively, titled Paper Dreams and Sweet Micky For President.
Most recently, Pras Michel has faced significant legal challenges due to his hand in campaign finance violations. In 2019, the Department of Justice indicted Pras on criminal conspiracy charges, alleging that the rapper had aided in the illegal transfer of nearly one million dollars from foreign interests into the 2012 effort to reelect President Barack Obama. Pras Michel was found guilty on 10 criminal counts in April 2023, jeopardizing the future of the artist’s career and freedom.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 01: Lauryn Hill performs during the 2022 Essence Festival of Culture at the Louisiana Superdome on July 01, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images)
Lauryn Hill holds a prominent place as one of the most talented and iconic performers in the history of hip-hop and R&B. Though her solo catalog consists of only one full-length LP, 1998’s The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill, fans around the world seem to eagerly hang on every word spoken from the elusive femcee. In the years following The Fugees’ disbandment, Hill has chosen to remain mostly away from the public eye, though she has sporadically stepped out to go on tour and appear on songs as a featured artist.
Like her Fugees cohort, Lauryn Hill encountered legal troubles after leaving the group. In 2012, authorities charged her with three counts of tax fraud, resulting in a three-month prison stint from July 2013 to October 2013. She obtained an early release for good behavior and negotiated a deal to fulfill her legal obligation through home confinement. Most recently, Lauryn Hill has appeared in prominent placements on tracks such as “Nobody” by Nas & HIt-Boy, “Coming Home” by Pusha T, and “We Got Love” by Teyana Taylor. Vocal samples from Lauryn Hill can also be heard in several Kanye West tracks, including “All Falls Down” and “Believe What I Say.”
Despite the bad blood and legal strife shared by the trio, The Fugees were able to put their differences aside and reunite for a reunion tour in the final months of 2023. The tour serves as both a 25th anniversary special for Hill’s seminal 1998 album, as well as something of a farewell performance for Pras Michel before his expected incarceration. While the tour has suffered some setbacks, including Lauryn Hill’s vocal strain, fans are encouraged to keep an eye out for more updated dates in 2024.
Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary took center stage in 2023, marking a year of celebratory events honoring the birth of the influential genre. From LL Cool J’sRock The Bells Festival to the iconic ESSENCE Festival, the prominence of the 50th year of Hip-Hop was evident, alongside it being featured at culture’s biggest award shows such as the 65th Annual Grammy Awardsand theMTV VMAs.
3. Happy 50th Anniversary, Hip-Hop!
ESSENCE Festival Honors Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary
The ESSENCE Festival, held in July 2023, served as a platform to pay homage to several hip-hop icons and celebrate Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary. The festival featured an unforgettable performance by Lauryn Hill, who headlined the event alongside other pioneering figures of the genre.
Hennessy & Sprite Partnerships Reflect the Milestone Year
RapperNasembraced the spirit of Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary through various brand collaborations. One notable partnership was with renowned liquor brand Hennessy, presenting a special edition release celebrating the milestone.
Additionally, Nas joined forces with Sprite for a collaboration that involved fellow artists Rakim, Latto, and GloRilla, further emphasizing the significance of the genre’s 50-year legacy.
5. Queen Bey’s ‘Renaissance Era
In the vibrant landscape of 2023, where the essence of Black culture thrived,Beyoncé claimed the top position with her monumental “Renaissance” era. As we delve into the top 23 highlights of the year, Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary stands out as a pivotal moment that shaped the cultural landscape and showcased the genre’s enduring impact.
Many fan-favorite tunes are covers of earlier melodies created by pioneers that may have been unknown by some fans. Some include top hits sung by chart-topping artists such as Aaliyah, Beyoncé, Salt-N-Pepa, and more.
Beyoncé – ‘If I Were A Boy’
Queen Bey surprised fans with her 2008 hit “If I Were A Boy,” a cover of BC Jean and Toby Gad’s song. This rendition reached No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and garnered multi-platinum certifications in various countries.
Salt- N- Pepa’s ‘Whatta Man’
Salt N Pepa’s timeless hit “Whatta Man” was a cover of Linda Lyndell’s 1968 original. The duo’s version reached impressive positions on the Billboard Hot 100, the UK Singles Chart, and the UK Dance Singles Chart.
Aaliyah’s ‘At Your Best’
Aaliyah’s 1994 hit “At Your Best” was a beautiful rendition of The Isley Brothers’ 1976 smash hit “At Your Best (You Are Love).” The single spent weeks on the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 3 in September 1994.
Destiny’s Child – ‘Emotion’
Destiny’s Child, the iconic girl group, also tried their hand at covering songs. In 2002, they released their version of Samantha Sang’s 1978 hit, “Emotion,” which became a top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Lauryn Hill’s ‘Killin’ Me Softly’
Lauryn Hill captivated audiences in 1996 with her rendition of Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly.” This cover topped the Mainstream Top 40 chart, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You”
Whitney Houston’s 1992 rendition of “I Will Always Love You” is considered a classic.
However, not many people know that the original belongs to Dolly Parton. Houston’s emotional tribute to Bobby Brown took the song to new heights.
Aretha Franklin’s “Respect”
Aretha Franklin’s iconic anthem “Respect” won her a Grammy and became a major feminist anthem. But it was originally written, and performed by the late music great Otis Redding in 1965.
These surprising covers remind us of the innovation and creativity that artists bring to their craft. While making a song, they pay homage to the original creators and introduce these timeless melodies to a new generation of listeners.
What’s The Problem?
In the world of hip-hop, sampling has been a long-standing tradition.
However, there are concerns about the overuse of sampling by newer artists, which some argue leads to a lack of originality in the genre. Hip-hop fans are divided on the issue, with some appreciating the homage paid to older tracks, while others feel it stifles the growth and creativity of the genre.
Goodie Mob Gets Real
Sampling has been a prominent element of hip-hop, and artists like Goodie Mob have witnessed its impact. In an exclusive interview with SOHH, members of Goodie Mob discussed their perspectives on hip-hop sampling, the state of the modern hip-hop world, and the influence of Drake’s success.
Lauryn Hill has announced that she is canceling her remaining tour dates, following the now-final performance she has in Philly this weekend. She had been playing shows both with a set tied to the 25th anniversary of her solo debut and with the Fugees in support of their time as a band.
In an Instagram post, Hill described how she was feeling the effects of her Prednisone prescription — that she was taking to get through vocal strain on the tour.
“As many of you may know, I’ve been battling serious vocal strain for the past month,” she wrote. “I made it through each show by taking prescribed prednisone, but this can be detrimental to the body when taken in large amounts over long periods of time. In order to prevent any long term negative affect on my voice and my body, I need to take time off to allow for real vocal recovery so that I can discontinue the medication completely.”
However, there is a positive side — the dates that have been canceled will be rescheduled for sometime in early 2024. “Because of the overwhelming response, we’ll be adding new cities to the tour, including overseas,” Hill added. “We’re working on the new calendar now, and announcing soon.”
Reputations are hard to shake for public figures, and as the age of saying goes, a lie spreads much faster than the truth. However, that’s not stopping Lauryn Hill from working to clear up a recent misconception. On Saturday, November 11, the “Ready Or Not” singer took to her official Instagram to provide context for the previous comments made about her past lateness during concerts.
A short clip taken during Hill’s scheduled The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill 25th Anniversary Tour stop in Los Angeles, California (on November 4) at the Crypto.com Arena went rival. In the video, she can be heard saying,” ‘Oh, she’s late’ and ‘She’s late tonight.’ Yo, y’all are lucky I make it to this bloodclot stage every night.”
Fans were upset by Hill’s remarks calling her out for not appreciating concertgoers’ time and support throughout her career. Now, Hill wants to take back the narrative by uploading the extended video to give background to what led to the spicy line.
The visual starts with Hill tearfully professing her love to her mother for her assistance raising her children while she continuously tours the world to provide for her family. By the time the line in question comes up, based on what was said prior, Hill’s frustration seems to be toward the industry for its poor treatment of her rather than her fans.
