According to several confirmed reports, the first attempt to have the federal conspiracy conviction overturned for Pras of The Fugees was denied in federal court on Friday(April 12) by a judge who has presided over cases involving Saddam Hussein, George W. Bush and Microsoft.
Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly denied the motion, saying there was more than sufficient evidence to convict Pras, whose real name is Prakazrel Michel, of the charges on the first go-round, and therefore, there was no reason to dismiss the conviction.
“After a five-week trial, a jury convicted Michel of ten counts,” the judge wrote in her memorandum. “The Court has thoroughly reviewed the extensive evidence presented at trial and finds the evidence sufficient to withstand a motion for judgment of acquittal under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 29. Accordingly, Michel’s [309] Motion for Judgment of Acquittal is DENIED.”
Back in January, Pras’ former attorney David Kenner pleaded guilty to leaking confidential federal grand jury files to two reporters in 2023, which is in direct violation of federal rules. The United States District Court in Washington, DC found probable cause that the ex-attorney for Michel “committed misdemeanor contempt in violation of 18 USC 401 (c)” by leaking files.
Pras was convicted of money laundering and illegitimate lobbying tactics. Just a few months later, he began working toward bringing his case back to life on grounds of his ex-attorney apparently messing up “the single most important portion” of his defense by using AI to put together a closing statement.
“Kenner’s closing argument made frivolous arguments, misapprehended the required elements, conflated the schemes and ignored critical weaknesses in the government’s case,” Pras’ new legal team stated in a brief. “The AI program failed Kenner, and Kenner failed [Pras] Michel. The closing argument was deficient, unhelpful and a missed opportunity that prejudiced the defense.”
David Kenner is the famed attorney who represented Death Row Records in the 90s and was able to secure an acquittal for Snoop Dogg’s murder trial back in 1993.
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.
Wyclef Jean, a legend in the music industry, has been a significant influence in the realm of hip-hop and beyond. This multi-talented musician, producer, and actor has an estimated net worth of $10 million US Dollars in 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Born in Haiti and raised in New Jersey, Wyclef Jean started making waves in the music industry as part of the influential hip-hop group The Fugees. Their album The Score was a massive success, selling millions of copies worldwide and significantly contributing to Wyclef Jean’s net worth. This helped put Jean on the map and was instrumental in his development as a hitmaking artist.
Jean’s solo career further skyrocketed his acclaimed visibility. His debut album, The Carnival, was also a critical and commercial success. Subsequent albums like The Ecleftic: 2 Sides II a Book and Masquerade added to his wealth and musical legacy.
Exploring Other Avenues: Wyclef Jean’s Net Worth
Beyond his successful music career, Wyclef Jean expanded his horizons into acting and entrepreneurship. His appearances in films like Shottas and TV shows such as Third Watch and Nashville brought additional income streams, further enhancing his net worth. Moreover, Jean’s venture into the business world, including his record label, Yéle Haiti, showcases his entrepreneurial spirit. These ventures have also played a significant role in his financial growth.
Philanthropic Efforts
Philanthropy is also a significant aspect of Jean’s life, complementing his professional success. He founded the Yéle Haiti Foundation to provide humanitarian aid and support development in Haiti. While his philanthropic work may not directly contribute to Wyclef Jean’s net worth, it undoubtedly enhances his social value and public image. Additionally, he remains at the forefront of helping communities that have suffered political upheaval or natural disasters.
Net Worth Reflecting His Musical Influence
Wyclef Jean’s music weaves a rich tapestry of influences, from hip hop to reggae, drawing on his Haitian roots. Collaborations with stars like Shakira and Santana underscore his universal appeal, while his work with The Fugees highlights his skills in blending diverse musical styles seamlessly.
Additionally, Wyclef’s dynamic style pays tribute to musical legends like Bob Marley, demonstrating his knack for infusing reggae with modern beats. His collaborations also extend beyond borders, featuring international artists such as Avicii, underscoring his global impact. From working with Mary J. Blige to crafting his own unique sound, Wyclef Jean’s multifaceted music career is a testament to his wide-ranging influences and partnerships.
Conclusion/TLDR
In conclusion, Wyclef Jean’s net worth is a testament to his impressive career. An estimated $10 million US Dollars as of 2024 reflects his journey from a member of The Fugees to a successful solo artist, actor, and entrepreneur. Wyclef Jean’s net worth is a tangible measure of his influence and success in the music industry and beyond. His story is an inspiration, demonstrating that one can build a lasting legacy with talent, hard work, and a willingness to diversify.
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 April 2023, after a long-fought case, Michel was formerly found guilty of money laundering. Sadly, he isn’t the only person connected to the case facing blowback from the heavily publicized trial. According to Rolling Stone, Michel’s defensive attorney, David Kenner, is also facing the music.
The outlet reports that on January 25, Kenner reportedly pleaded guilty to leaking evidence related to the case to members of the press. As media professionals were required to sign a protective order to prevent information from being shared with the public, Kenner allegedly handed off confidential files to multiple reporters from Bloomberg.
While appearing before the judge, Kenner reportedly apologized for his misconduct. “[This is a] low point,” he said. “Obviously, I made a terrible mistake.”
Michel’s spokesperson, Erica Dumas, released a statement regarding the matter. “Mr. Kenner argues that he was merely trying to mount the best possible defense for Pras,” she said. “Mr. Kenner’s reckless actions crossed critical ethical lines, failed his duties as counsel, and ultimately have cost him dearly. This plea conviction represents a breach of client trust that strikes at the heart of the attorney-client relationship.”
It is unclear if Kenner will face time behind bars for his actions, but he has agreed to pay a $5,000 fine.
In April of last year, Fugees rapper Pras finally wrapped up a long-running high-profile trial. He was facing some pretty serious conspiracy charges accusing him of embezzling millions. And after being found guilty last year he could be facing some serious consequences. The jury sent back a verdict of guilty in the federal conspiracy case, though that was hardly the end of the story. Since his conviction, the rapper has been making moves towards getting a retrial.
The primary reason he’s seeking a retrial is unhappiness with his legal representation in the first one. Back in October he made some surprising claims about the actions of his lawyer during the first trial. He accused his lawyer of using artificial intelligence to generate a closing statement in his trial. In fact, just earlier this week it was revealed that Pras’ retrial was being considered as a direct result of his legal representation. That came as is lawyer plead guilty to contempt of court charges. According to AllHipHop, he confessed to sharing classified documents with with the press during the trial. The guilty plea could work in the rapper’s favor at getting a retrial.
Following his guilty verdict Pras had to fight off allegations of being an informant online. While some, like Chuck D, came to his defense he had to face accusations from other popular figures. He even made threats to sue50 Cent and Kyrie Irving for their comments on the situation last year.
What do you think of Pras’ lawyer pleading guilty to contempt of court? Do you think he has a chance at beating the charges against him in a retrial? Let us know in the comment section below.
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Alternative hip-hop has always challenged the status quo, and oftentimes, influenced the next generation of artists who came after them. Still, the artistic risks proved fruitful for many who found commercial success without compromising their sound. However, many alternative hip-hop artists are placed in the “underground” category, even in 2023. But, with the power of the internet, they are successful in their own right and have a different connection with their listeners than the chart-topping artists. Alternative hip-hop is a genre that continues to expand as the years go on because there will always be artists who do things their own way. We’ve compiled a list of artists from years past that laid the groundwork for the alternative hip-hop artists of today.
A Tribe Called Quest
A Tribe Called Quest was one of the pioneer groups in the alternative hip-hop space. With smooth jazzy samples from producer and rapper Q-Tip, they contrasted the prominent sounds of hardcore hip-hop. Their delivery style was smooth and lined up with their jazz-based production well. However, that’s not to say they didn’t have energy-filled tracks in their repertoire too. “Scenario” comes to mind when fans recall some of their biggest high-energy tracks which boasts a standout verse from Busta Rhymes. Meanwhile, records like “Electric Relaxation” stand as a quintessential Tribe track that pulls its smooth bass line from a sample from “Mystic Brew” by Ronnie Foster. The group transcended generations gaining listeners throughout the 90s all the way to the release of their final album in 2016.
Digable Planets was an alternative hip-hop group that remains criminally underrated. Sure, they are not a household name like some other groups on this list but their impact is undeniable. Their contributions shaped jazz rap and opened the doors for alternative acts that continue to push boundaries. Their lyrical content always had a political edge to it but they doubled down on their second album Blowout Comb.
Although they only released two studio albums, they achieved some commercial success in their time. Their debut project, Reachin’ (A New Refutation of Time and Space) was certified gold. Meanwhile, their Grammy-winning single “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)” has withstood the test of time and remains a definitive anthem in hip-hop.
De La Soul is a trio that burst onto the alternative hip-hop scene with unique sample choices. They had this impeccable ability to use recognizable samples that you wouldn’t expected. One of the biggest examples of this was “The Magic Number” which samples “Three Is A Magic Number” from the series Schoolhouse Rock. The group used the song to comment on the rap game with playful bars. Another standout was “Eye Know” which sampled “Peg” by Steely Dan and “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding. Audiences labeled them as a “hippie” group due to their lighthearted tones and flower-based imagery – a classification they quickly distanced themselves from as their discography grew.
The Fugees are a unique group in the alternative hip-hop lane who introduced the world to an artist who would continue to be a legend in that lane — Lauryn Hill. The trio only released to albums before disbanding. Their sophomore album, The Score, stands among the greatest bodies of work in hip-hop history.
In comparison to some of the other entries on this list, their sound was mature. They combined melodies with their bars, providing complex layers to their song structures. Moreover, their production combined live instrumentation and samples. There was a certain emotional weight to many songs in their discography especially the hit single “Ready or Not” which member Pras recalled seeing Hill crying while recording her vocals for. One of their more rap-focused singles was “Fu-Gee-La” whose unique production provides the perfect soundscape for their verses.
Gnarls Barkley
Gnarls Barkley was an alternative hip-hop duo that gained critical success despite their alternative status. Some listeners may classify them as more of a pop act but our inclusion of them in our list still stands. Member Cee Lo Green was once a part of Goodie Mob, a hip-hop group from Atlanta. The other half of the duo, Danger Mouse, is a reputable producer who first gained fame with the release of The Grey Album, a mash-up project that combined Jay-Z’s The Black Album and The Beatles’ The White Album. As Gnarls Barkley, their single “Crazy” went Diamond and was Grammy nominated. Their music combined multiple elements of pop, soul, hip-hop, and more which was capitalized on by Cee Lo’s unique vocal style. Their unique approach made them stand out easily from their contemporaries.
Arrested Development
Arrested Development is an alternative hip-hop group that emerged in the 90s. Their lyrics focused on pushing positivity and uplifting their listeners with production that reflected their lyrical tone. In their early years, the group accumulated a few chart-topping singles and albums that performed well commercially too. This led to them winning the Grammy for Best New Artist in 1993. Another one of their big moments in music was creating a song for Spike Lee’s film Malcolm X. Titled “Revolution,” the song has layered lyrics built around the imagery of rain and the unification of Black people.
MF DOOM
MF DOOM might be the most popular alternative hip-hop artist for listeners of this generation. Known as “your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper,” he created an eccentric yet reclusive personality that drew listeners in. Anytime he appeared on camera he would wear a mask heavily inspired by the comic book character Dr. Doom. Sometimes, “clones” of him would perform at live shows, much to fans’ disappointment. MF DOOM also had multiple eccentric qualities in his music, whether it was his unique rhymes and references or sample choices. He released music such as MF DOOM, Viktor Vaughn, and King Geedorah. His collaborative project with Madlib, Madvillainy has been immensely praised. DOOM never attempted to climb in popularity with his career and was content at the level he was at. Even though he passed in 2022, listeners will never forget it’s “all caps when you spell the man’s name.”
Who are some of your favorite alternative hip hop artists? Let us know in the comments section.
While Ms. Lauryn Hill is a certified rap and R&B legend, she’s developed a reputation for unpredictable live performances. She’s often either showing up hours late to shows or just canceling them entirely. That included an entire planned tour last year where The Fugees planned on reuniting to celebrate the anniversary of their classic album The Score. Lauryn is currently on tour with Fugees again, this time celebrating the 25th anniversary of her landmark solo albumThe Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill.
Hill is about halfway through the tour and the unreliability of her live appearances has popped up again. She was scheduled to play a show in Philadelphia tonight, but just announced on social media that it was delayed. “It is with disappointment that I am writing this note to you. On the advice of my physicians, I have no choice but to postpone the show tomorrow. I need to rest my voice to prevent any more serious strain or damage to my vocal cords,” her statement reads. She goes on to express how enjoyable the tour has been up to this point. The statement concludes by confirming to fans that she will be back next month on November 25. Check out the full statement below.
Last month fans who turned up for Lauryn Hill’s Global Citizen Festival performance got a nice surprise. The Fugees also turned up there for another surprise re-uniting that absolutely thrilled fans in attendance. The trio unpacked some of their classic hits like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “Ready Or Not” with videos of their performance swirling online.
That isn’t the only festival Lauryn has played this year. Back in June, she took the stage at Essence Festival to headline the shows Friday slot. But as she’s been known to do in the past, she was late to the performance drawing criticism from fans. What do you think of Lauryn Hill postponing her show on the advice of her doctors? Let us know in the comment section below.