Lauryn Hill. Image source: Harry Durrant, Getty Images.
“The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” is the album that transcended not only hip-hop for women but the genre in general. It is the album’s 25th anniversary today, as it was released on Aug. 25, 1998.
Lauryn Hill was the first woman to win five Grammys in one night for the iconic album. In addition, she was the first hip-hop artist to win Album of the Year. The “Ex-Factor” singer’s bars engulfed every beat, yet her smooth vocals were the cherry on top of every track. It was the New Jersey native’s only album, but it still stapled her name in the music industry forever.
Lauryn Hill made history by winning five Grammys in one night for “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” in 1999. Image source: WireImage.
Lauryn Hill Celebrates With Milestone Global Tour
The songwriter is heading out on a global tour in honor of the huge anniversary. The 17-concert tour will start in Minneapolis and travel across North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
The icon will be joined by her fellow group, the Fugees. This is as fellow member Pras Michel awaits sentencing after being found guilty of conspiracy and acting as an unregistered agent of a foreign government.
Heartbreaking Reason Hill Never Had A Sophomore Album
The heartbreaking reason behind the Hill’s not making a second album was due to the lack of support she felt from her label. They never called her to ask how they could help her make another album.
“This Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill” album cover. Image source: TIDAL.
When I listen to this album, I feel the rapper’s pain, love, joy, and growth. Songs such as “Ex-Factor,” “To Zion,” “When It Hurts So Bad,” and “Tell Him” amplify the singer’s emotions through every melody.
Lauryn Hill was only a 22-year-old and pregnant at the time when she released “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” but you can tell the legendary artist was beyond her years.
Strength of A Woman Festival & Summit 2023. Image source: Rough Draft Atlanta.
Saturday, May 13, 2023, was a date etched in the calendars of R&B lovers everywhere! The Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit took Atlanta, Georgia, by storm at the State Farm Arena. And boy, oh boy, did it deliver an R&B show for the ages!
The hype was off the charts, with Coco Jones, Muni Long, Lucky Daye, Summer Walker, and Ms. Lauryn Hill gracing the stage. But don’t just take my word for it; the event was attended by R&B enthusiasts of all ages who were downright giddy about the outstanding performances and explosive musical moments.
The Unforgettable Night: Strength Of A Woman In Music And Performance
Now, let me take you through this unforgettable night. First up was the multi-talented singer and actress Coco Jones.
Coco Jones performed at the Strength Of A Woman festival at the R&B Arena Show. Credit: Getty Images
The crowd was in awe as Coco’s soulful voice hit their eardrums. She had everyone on their feet with her heart-warming performance of “ICU.” Talk about an audio and visual experience that left a lasting impression.
The crowd is watching Coco Jones’ performance. Credit: Getty Images
Next, we have Muni Long, who took the stage, and her vocal range was the talk of the town.
Muni Long is singing her heart out. Credit: Getty Images
Singing “Hrs & Hrs” and even covering Atlanta favorites like “Lovers and Friends” and “U Got It Bad,” Muni left the audience wondering if there was anything she couldn’t do.
Muni captivates the audience. Credit: Getty Images
Who Else Lit Up The Stage?
Enter Lucky Daye, the Grammy-winning sensation. This man knows how to serenade a crowd! With his smooth vocals, sultry beats, and sensual choreography, Lucky had everyone under his spell.
Lucky Daye. Credit: Getty Images
Performing hits like “Love You Too Much,” “Guess,” and “Late Night,” he even swept a lucky fan off their feet. Now that’s showmanship! He definitely knows how to “Lucky” up a room!
Lucky Daye brought a fan onstage. Credit: Getty Images
And then came Summer Walker, the rising star who has taken the R&B world aback. Her emotional ballads had the entire crowd swaying and feeling every word.
Summer Walker is on stage performing. Credit: Getty Images
Tracks like “Playing Games,” “Session 32,” and “Insane” struck a chord with the audience. Are they to blame for being captivated?
Fans sang along to Summer Walker’s music. Credit: Getty Images
There is one more last act to amaze you! None other than Ms. Lauryn Hill herself,of Fugees fame. Oh, the anticipation was intense as she took the stage.
Lauryn Hill performs on stage. Credit: Yahoo! Finance
With her soulful voice and empowering lyrics, Lauryn commanded the spotlight. Her classic hits “Doo Wop (That Thing)” and “Killing Me Softly” had the crowd hanging on every note. Who could resist staying in the building well into the night?
Uplifting Women: Celebrating Resilience And Impact In The Music Industry
Coco Jones, Muni Long, Lucky Daye, Summer Walker, and the legendary Lauryn Hill have truly made a name for themselves in the industry, carving out a niche that’s uniquely theirs. But their music isn’t just catchy; it’s a testament to the enduring strength of women. Each artist has their own style and power that resonates deeply with the audience.
The Strength of a Woman Festival showcased the crème de la crème of musical talents. Not only did it uplift women, but it also celebrated their resilience and enormous impact on the music industry and society. Imagine the electric atmosphere and the incredible vibes that filled the air. It was an experience that words can hardly describe. But if words can’t do it justice, we can only imagine what kind of moves were seen on the dance floor!
What Is The Strength Of A Woman Festival About?
The Strength of A Woman Festival and Summit is all about lifting women up, teaching them valuable lessons, and giving them the tools they need to unleash their inner awesomeness.
This festival and summit is no ordinary gathering. It’s a global phenomenon that brings together women from all walks of life across different generations to create an environment about authenticity. We’re talking about a space created by women for women.
In addition, this event goes beyond just a gathering of awesome ladies. It’s an experience that fosters a sense of community, opens doors to incredible opportunities, and cultivates a sisterhood that will last a lifetime.
Wyclef Jean attends the Global Citizen Forums 2022 Annual Summit Human Metamorphosis Day 2 on November 17, 2022. Image source: Shameem Shaheed, Getty Images for Global Citizen.
Rapper Wyclef Jean told his fans he is okay after revealing his first-ever hospital stay.
Alarming Video From Wyclef In A Wheelchair
Wyclef Jean alarmed his fans with a video, no longer on Instagram, of him being wheeled in a mask and hospital gown. The Haitian rapper checked himself in and stayed overnight. The hospital staff ran some tests, which was why Jean could not go home right away. Wyclef admitted he wasn’t taking great care of himself and comforted his fans by saying he’ll be back soon.
Wyclef’s caption for the video was, “Sometimes we forget our body is our temple. Be back soon.” Another Instagram post popped up later on the rapper’s account, reiterating he would return soon.
Wyclef Jean narrated as he was wheeled through the hospital. The 53-year-old tried to lighten the serious situation by saying, “… should be fun though.”
Fans were fully supportive in Wyclef’s comment section.
What Did Jean Find Out After Hospital Stay?
According to Wyclef Jean, the unexpected visit seems to have come from exhaustion and stress.
The Fugees rapper allegedly said the issues began after he recently returned to California from Miami. Jean told TMZ he felt numbness on the right side of his face, which made him turn to his family doctor. Face numbness resulted from exhaustion and is likely stress related as well.
Eventually, the “Gone Till November” musician was sent to the emergency room.
Doctors Orders To Get Better And Tests To Come
Wyclef is looking at a full recovery after getting much rest. The rapper is back home and has more medical tests next week.
Wyclef’s Projects On The Way
This news follows the actor’s partnership with Apex Motors, where Wyclef Jean plans to produce a luxury electric vehicle. The Attucks Apex AP0 will be on the market in 2024.
Jean’s music is also in full effect as he reunites with Jin. The pair recorded an updated version of their 2003 single, “Learn Chinese,” earlier this year.
Lil Kim in 2005 with the law enforcement escort. Image source: AP.
There is much that defines Hip-Hop and much that shapes its influence within the world. However, nothing has more formative power and influence in Hip-Hop than the artists who step to the mic to tell their stories.
While some MCs spit about money and their shine, others flow about the street, the upsets, and the climb. Some come from a place of proximity, relaying experiences from a distance. Others from straight off the front lines.
Not everyone’s course is through a field of roses; some crawl through the trenches with scars to prove how far they’ve come. So here is a list of female MCs who’ve stumbled. At some point in their careers, they have had brushes with the law. Now they bear a record as proof.
Nevertheless, their past scars are a testament to their humanity and evidence of what is possible with refocusing.
Female MC #1 Remy Ma
Remy Ma. Image source: Getty Images.
Remy Ma hit the scene in 2000 as the newest artist on Columbia Records. 2006 saw the release of Remy’s debut album, “There’s Something About Remy: Based on a True Story.” There was no doubt that Remy went hard.
A year after her debut, things took a left. Ma had one of the most publicized run-ins with the law. As a result of her arrest, she would serve a seven-year prison bid. Remy’s charges stem from an argument with a friend, which turned lethal.
During their struggle, her friend, Barnes-Joseph, was inflicted with multiple gunshot wounds The penalty for such a crime carried a 25-year maximum.
However, the prosecution sought thirteen. Some believe the tenor of the MCs’ testimony was most influential in the judge’s final decision. According to XXL Magazine, Remy’s statement was to this effect,
“I’m not a thug. I’m not a hardcore anything; I have feelings. I’m a wife, mother, daughter, a big sister.”
And reportedly, her speech bore extreme remorse. Judge Rena Uviller’s response was an eight-year sentence. Ma won her second appeal walking free in 2014.
Female MC #2 Lil Kim
Lil Kim. Image source: Maury Phillips, Getty Image.
When it comes to Hip-Hop and female MCs, Lil Kim’s name is everpresent. Lil Kim, Kimberly Denise Jones caught the eye of the Notorious Big. Her talent was impressive leading Biggie to take her under his wings.
Lil Kim soon became one of the most popular mainstream female MCs. However, her artistry is not the only thing she is known for. Lil Kim takes second place regarding the most highly publicized brush with the law.
Lil Kim was convicted in 2005; her sentence was a one-year prison sentence. However, in addition to incarceration, she was also ordered to 30 days in home confinement and three years of probation.
Kim’s sentencing was the result of four counts of a criminal offense. Count one was for perjury before a grand jury. And the other three counts were for conspiracy.
When Lil Kim took the stand and was questioned about her knowledge of Damion Butler’s and Suif Jackson’s involvement in a shooting. According to a 2005 Billboard article, Kim testified she overlooked two of her close friends at the scene where the shooting occurred.
The New York Times reported, “Ms. Jones said she did not see Damion Butler at the radio station that day. She also said she did not know the person in the photograph.”
Later Lil Kim was found guilty of lying before the grand jury. Finally, Kim walked free in July of 2006.
Female MC #3 Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown. Image source: Johnny Nunez, WireImage.
Foxy Brown is not only a contemporary but a former MC rival of Lil Kim. Lil Kim hit the booth in 1996 with her debut album “Ill Na Na.” Her debut was hot right off the press, and it wasn’t long before everyone knew her name.
Unfortunately, like Kim, she also takes recognition for her jail time. Reportedly Brown got into a fight with two stylists at a nail salon resulting in assault charges. Initially, the Hip-Hop femcee pled guilty.
However, she later attempted to rescind her plea. According to Reuters, Brown’s told the judge, “I feel I am innocent. I was coerced, and I want to take back my guilty plea.”
Of course, she was denied and given three years of probation for her involvement in the altercation. Aside from the probation, the judge’s orders would include anger management classes, drug testing, and a restraining order.
In addition, Brown could not have any contact with the stylist for five years.
Sadly Brown, Inga Marchand’s three years of probation turned into a one-year sentence. The sentence resulted from the artist refusing to attend her court hearing. According to Reuters, the defendant’s rationale for not appearing in court was due to tooth extraction. As it is now a public record, Brown was sentenced in 2007.
However, four months before her sentence was complete, Brown was out.
Female MC #4 Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill. Image source: Theo Wargo, Getty Images.
Lauryn Hill is one of the most well-known female lyricists in Hip-Hop history. Her influence is generational. In 1996 Hill and her fellow collaboratives of the group The Fugees broke records with their second debut album, “The Score.”
However, success and stardom do not keep one free from entanglements with the law. Lauryn Hill also had her brush with the law in 2012. Unfortunately, Hill had three counts against her for failing to file taxes. But, also in 2012, Hill pled guilty to the crime of tax evasion. As a result, Hill was sentenced to 3 months of jail time and three months of in-home detainment.
A year of probation was to follow. Sadly, her sentencing was only part of Hill’s penalty. According to Justice.gov, Judge Arleo ordered Hill to pay the IRS a $60,000 fine and restitution.
Arleo also ordered Hill’s full cooperation with the IRS, including payment of outstanding interest and penalties on her tax obligations.
Female MC #5 Da Brat
Da Brat. Image source: Marcus Ingram, Getty Images.
In 1992 Da Brat signed with So So Def Records and made her presence known. Her album “Funkdafied” made history. According to famouspeople.com, the album made her the first-ever female solo rapper to earn a platinum certification.
However, Da Brat would gain notoriety for something else, also. Foxy Brown was not the only female emcee sentenced in 2007. Da Brat also saw jail time in 2007 for assault.
DaBrat, whose real name is Shawntee Harris, had a run-in with a waitress at a Halloween party. According to Rap-Up, she struck a waitress with a rum bottle. This incident led to the waitress’s hospitalization.
As a result, a judge sentenced Brat to 3 years in prison. The MC also got seven years of probation and community service. Da Brat served her time, and sources indicate she was released early as part of a work-release program.
Female MC #6 JT of City Girls
JT of City Girls. Image source: Paras Griffin.
The spotlight now spins to JT of the Hip-Hop duo City Girls. City Girls is a hot rap lyrical duo from Miami. JT and Yung Miami have been etching in the Hip-Hop scrolls since featuring with Drake on “In My Feelings.”
Unfortunately, JT learned success was not the only thing that got recognition. JT went to prison in 2018 for the crime of fraudulent credit card activity.
According to XXL, JT used the credit cards of three different people between 2016 and 2017 and spent more than $1,000. JT later turned herself in. As a result, she received 24 months in prison. However, in 2019 JT walked free.
One of the most significant components of Hip-Hop is the people who stand behind the mic. Unfortunately, every person has shadows, and some loom larger than others. While these female MCs have committed crimes, they have also done their time.
And thankfully, a fall doesn’t define the whole of a human being. Despite where these women have been, they remain inspirations. It is not for what they went through but for the heights they have risen because the real inspiration comes from how one rises from the ash heap to be reborn and reformed.
Pro-life and pro-choice demonstrators gather in front of the US Supreme Court. Image source: BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images.
Roe v Wade is a hot-button issue currently in the United States. But the medium of rap music has been speaking on it for decades.
It’s no secret music has a significant influence on American society’s social and political landscape. The 60s sound-tracked the public feelings on civil rights, and the hits of the 70s reflected Americans’ thoughts on the ongoing war. With rap being the most dominant genre of music on the Billboard charts, it works as a vessel for discourse in our modern day.
Following the 1973 Roe v Wade ruling, a precedent was set to consider abortion a constitutional right. At the time, this disrupted state anti-abortion laws across the country and sparked a pressing debate, continuing to this day. As the public’s view on abortion changes drastically over time, How has its narrative in Hip-Hop changed with it?
Fresh Off Roe V. Wade
One of the earliest and most condemning mentions of abortion in rap is the aptly under name “Abortion” by Doug E. Fresh. The 1986 song is entirely about opposing the procedure on a moral basis. Doug E. Fresh and the Get Fresh Crew reflected many Americans’ views back at the times when sex education was much hardly available.
36 years later, we see the same anti-abortion arguments as in 1986 Doug E. Fresh’s and the Get Fresh Crew’s song. However, today such discourse takes place on the Senate floor.
Mind distortion, the world morals is out of proportion
And I want it played in every Walkman
All of us were born into a life of sin
That’s something in the genes buried deep within
But to give or take life, you must pay the price
Of course, this is just 13 years after Roe v Wade. Soon enough, many more artists and Americans alike would gain a deeper understanding. At least, for a bit of a while. 2
Tupac Turns The Tide
Tupac Shakur is known for being ahead of his time in more ways than one. This includes his take on reproductive rights. Seeing as how Shakur grew up with a single mother, he shows rare sympathy for young girls raising kids. In his 1993 song “Keep Ya Head Up,” Tupac clearly states his belief that women should have the right to choose.
And since a man can’t make one
He has no right to tell a woman when and where to create one
So will the real men get up
I know you’re fed up, ladies, but keep ya head up
Obviously, this is something Shakur felt passionate about. Two years earlier, he released “Brenda’s Got a Baby.” This well-known track details a pregnant young girl facing unimaginable hardship after suffering sexual abuse.
I hear Brenda’s got a baby
But Brenda’s barely got a brain
A damn shame, the girl can hardly spell her name
Tupac vividly paints a picture of the circumstances a baby can be born into when women are stripped of their reproductive rights. Notably, “Brenda’s Got a Baby” struck a chord with many listeners who never heard a record told from the mother’s viewpoint. It remains one of Tupac’s most beloved records in his impressive catalog.
Up Close & Personal
Another rapper who hasn’t shied away from the topic of abortion is Lauryn Hill. The Fugees alumna has a firsthand account of being pregnant and on the fence about getting the procedure. In her 1998 song “To Zion,” Hill describes in detail the pressure she was under to terminate her first pregnancy.
Woe this crazy circumstance
I knew his life deserved a chance
But everybody told me to be smart
‘Look at your career,’ they said
“Lauryn, baby, use your head”
But instead, I chose to use my heart
Now the joy of my world is in Zion
Zion came to Hill during a tumultuous time in her life and career. The then-22-year-old was just starting her solo career after a rocky relationship with bandmate Wyclef Jean. It’s easy to imagine those around Hill discouraging her decision, but the beauty of “To Zion” is the presence of a decision. Through a mix of storytelling and actual experience, the “Ex-Factor” MC expresses her love for her son and stands firmly in her choice.
Common and Lauryn collaborated on another song about family planning the previous year. “Retrospect For Life” follows a young couple discussing if they should start a family or not.
I wouldn’t choose any other to mother my understanding
But I want our Parenthood to come from Planning
It’s so much in my life that’s undone
We gotta see eye to eye about family before we can become one
By the content and context of the lyrics, it’s clear that abortion has shifted from a complete taboo to an ordinary conversation. Of course, the public eye would still avoid the subject. However, many couples start talking behind closed doors. Kids impact everything for their parents, money, space, time, and “Retrospect For Life” gets candid about that. Similarly to Zion, this adds a human element to the debate.
The Hardest Decision
As Hip-Hop transitioned into the new millennium, the politics surrounding reproductive rights continued to evolve. Two rap songs from the 2000s, “What’s Going On” and “My Story (Please Forgive Me),” give a more regretful stance.
Love & Hip Hop star and artist Remy Ma loves to gush about her kids and the joy of motherhood. But avid fans know motherhood has always been a big part of her. In “What’s Going On,” featuring Keyshia Cole, Remy tells the tale of a young woman looking back on her abortion with remorse.
Tell me what’s going I know what I’m doing is wrong
Can you hear me, Lord, when I’m calling? Forgive me, my baby
How am I supposed to feel the situation is real
Neva wanted to let you baby go. We’ll meet again, I know, baby
Similarly, in “My Story” by Jean Grae, pregnancy termination is allegedly dark and guilt-inducing.
See when the rain comes down, I know it’s fallin’ for me, and only for me
And when the pain comes around, there’s nowhere else I rather would be
I know what I’ve done. Please forgive me
It’s worth noting neither artist here puts down women who choose that planned parenthood trip. There are no petty insults or agendas but rather harsh truths about the realities of such a difficult choice. Like many rap songs about reproductive rights, simple storytelling here makes compelling points.
Looking Ahead At Roe V. Wade
More recent offerings in the Hip-Hop world reflect the still chaotic debate raging on. On the one hand, there’s still sympathy for potential mothers in tracks like “Lost Ones” by J Cole. The early 2010’s deep cut documents a young man telling his girlfriend he doesn’t think they’re ready to start a family. Abortion here is framed as a decision for a man and woman to make together for their own sake. However, many rappers in our current landscape still see abortion in an inherently negative light. “If These Walls Could Talk,” by Gat Turner and Viva Fidel, explicitly calls it murder.
Shook like an unborn man, my life in danger
Cause first sign of trouble mama looking for the hanger
Shook like an unborn mama trying to murder me
First-degree abortion, devil call it surgery
Indeed, time doesn’t wash away long-held beliefs. These two songs perfectly exemplify the two sides of the coin in the contentious political battle. What appears as family planning to some has more immense moral implications for others.
Wherever you stand, it’s clear that reproductive rights are going through a change unseen since 1973. The country’s political landscape is slowly changing, and rap music will continue to be the soundtrack for that transition.
Lauryn Hill Steps Out and Speaks in Support of the FAIR Act. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Lauryn Hill, Hip Hop Artist and former member of the Fugees, is back into the light, if only for a moment, to vocalize support of the FAIR (Free Artists from Industry Restrictions) Act.
Lauryn Hill, an expressive hip-hop artist, and performer, doesn’t take the stage much these days. But, typically, when she steps out, she has something profound to share. In this instance, Hill uses her voice to support a piece of legislation. If passed, artists will gain more freedom from industry controls.
FAIR Act
The FAIR Act is a legislative bill introduced by San Jose Democratic assembly member Ash Karla to repeal an amendment to a California bill, the “Seven Year Stature.”
“The law states that if a recording artist ends their record deal after 7 years and still owes the label a specific number of undelivered albums, the label has the right to sue within 45 days to recover damages; to any undelivered albums.”
It sounds like a steep penalty to pay to make music.
Under California Labor Code section 2855, a company cannot bind someone to a personal services agreement for longer than seven calendar years.
However, due to some collusion, recording artists were made the exception. And that is foul! Undoubtedly, it’s a cold, cruel world we live in.
What’s the Big Deal?
So virtually, the amendment holds artists captive to their record labels for an indeterminate time. Or the artist is left to pay absorbent fees without much recourse if in violation.
However, Hill, who’s been there and done the tango with the industry and her label, feels enough is enough.
Hill on the Seven Year Stature and The FAIR Act
Hill could not be vocal enough about the necessity of this legislation.
“No institution should have the opportunity to control the market by controlling the output of a creative being for some ridiculous, indefinite period.”
Her stance is solid.
Why does the Seven Year Stature Exclude Recording Artist?
The record labels banded together to ensure the clause excluded recording artists from coverage under the Seven Year Stature. Record labels broke the argument into three components. But one argument summed up the entire premise.
The label’s argument was the music industry is unique from other industries because recording artists agree to produce a specific number of delivered albums. This requirement stands even if it takes the artist 20 years, and they are stuck with terms they agreed to when they were 19 years old.
Sounds a lot like indentured servitude. And unfortunately, policymakers took the side of the labels.
What will the FAIR act do?
The FAIR act is a measure to undo what the original amendment set in place, among other things. This act will nullify the addition, restoring the original Seven Year’s Statue.
This [amended stature] is unjust, but it’s also dangerous and, at its core, a violation of the principles of free expression. Artists’ expressions Are their voices and an extension of their free speech. They should not be contained, caught up, or controlled beyond a reasonable amount of time by an institution with the money and power to obstruct and deny someone’s output indefinitely.
That’s a difficult position to oppose.
Where the Legislation Stands
The legislation is presently before the Arts Committee for a vote. And if it passes, it will progress through one more channel before being presented to the assembly. So no done deal yet.
Due to such legislation’s significant impact, FM Hip Hop will keep tabs and update as things progress.
After consistently being criticized for being a “TikTok” artist, Coi Leray is now putting those critics to shame. With the release of her latest single “Blick Blick” with Nicki Minaj, she wants to set the bar high for her rap career.
In a series of tweets, Leray is manifesting to get a “Best New Artist” nomination at the Grammy’s one day. “No More Parties, Big prrd, Twinnem, Anxiety and now Blick Blick,” she wrote. “I want best new artist at the Grammys. Even a nomination. I’ll take it.” In a follow-up tweet, she laughed, “Oh yeah … and thanks to everyone who laughed at my XXL freestyle.” “Blick Blick’s” music video currently has over 4 million views.
Once Coi Leray’s dream becomes a reality, she will be one of seven rap acts to be nominated for Best New Artist in the 62-year history of the award show. Out of five, only two have one thus far, with both being female rappers. Lauryn Hill was the first in 1999 and Megan Thee Stallion took the honor last year. In total, six women in rap history have been nominated for Best New Artist, with Saweetie earning a nomination this year.
Leray Is Not The Only “TikTok” Artist
Like Leray, there are a couple of artists who have gotten more success because of TikTok. Doja Cat is one who has become insanely popular over the last two years because of the platform. After the Say So and Sillouhette challenges, she has become a household name. Last year, she was also nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys and is now nominated for eight this year, including Album, Record and Song of the Year. Another one is Gayle with her worldwide hit “abcdefu.” The song reached the third spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
Yep – you heard that right. Wyclef Jean accidentally dropped the CEO of Jaguar Land Rover Motors on his head at an after-party. Luckily the fall wasn’t too serious as the CEO, Mr. Joe Eberhardt escaped with only slight injuries.
Oops, My Bad?
According to TMZ, Mr. Jean was hired to perform at the Range Rover Leadership Summit, taking place at the Academy of Motion Pictures. The event had attendees from Jaguar Land Rover, North American division where they’d be giving speeches and debuting a new line of products.
Wyclef Jean accidentally dropped the CEO of Land Rover Jaguar on his head at a Range Rover corporate event in L.A. 😳😭 pic.twitter.com/ZYyNXibKbJ
The after-party, however, took place at the Edition Hotel in West Hollywood. One can see Mr. Joe Eberhardt sitting on top of Mr. Jean’s shoulders in the footage, before taking the nasty tumble. Although he was left a little shaken by the incident, it didn’t ruin the mood as the party went on afterward. Other revelers could be seen rushing to his side after the spill. Naturally, Mr. Jean was mortified by the ordeal.
As usual, the internet had a field day with the news. Here’s a classic take from Twitter:
Wyclef Jean Will Be Reuniting With The Fugees On Tour
Wyclef Jean has more than just a CEO on his shoulders at the moment. The Fugees announced their international reunion tour on Instagram on 21st September, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their iconic album, The Score. The Fugees consist of Pras Michel, Lauryn Hill, and Wyclef Jean, and will perform twelve shows in total. The tour will be the first time the group has performed together in 15 years. However, the group pushed the reunion back to 2022 following another Instagram announcement. They explained the reason behind the delay, stating they would like to accommodate more fans by including more locations.
It’s official: legendary hip-hop group The Fugees are back with a world tour. The massive announcement comes in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of their Grammy-winning album The Score.
The iconic group hasn’t performed together in fifteen years. Yet Wyclef Jean, Pras Michel, and the absolutely legendary Lauryn Hill will be reuniting for twelve shows. The tour kicks off today, just one day after it was announced, with “an intimate show” in New York City, according to the group. The first show will be held at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in NYC via Ticketmaster.
The next show is scheduled for November 2nd, at the United Center in Chicago. More shows are planned to follow in Oakland, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, Newark, Washington D.C., Paris, and London. The tour will end in Africa, with shows in Nigeria and Ghana.
Fugees: “Crafty crew” to worldwide success
Formed in 1990, the Fugees originally went by the name “Tranzlator Crew”. This changed to “Fugees” as a nod to Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel’s Haitian immigrant background. After coming onto the scene with their 1994 freshman album, Blunted on Reality and getting on to the Billboard Top 50, the Fugees continued their climb.
In 1996, they hit the big time. That year, their instant-classic album The Score came out to resounding success. It nabbed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200. The album included smash hits “Ready or Not” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song”. The latter won the 1997 Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance By a Duo or Group. The Score would go on to win Best Rap Album at the 1997 Grammys, and to date has sold some 22 million copies worldwide.
Separated and reunited
Following the album’s success, the group parted ways. Each went on to have a successful solo career, especially notably Lauryn Hill. In 1998, she released her first (and so far, only) album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, which solidified her as one of the best R&B-hip-hop artists of all time. In a press statement regarding the tour, the Fugees, and The Score, Hill said:
“The Fugees have a complex but impactful history. I wasn’t even aware the 25th anniversary had arrived until someone brought it to my attention…I decided to honor this significant project, its anniversary, and the fans who appreciated the music by creating a peaceful platform where we could unite, perform the music we loved, and set an example of reconciliation for the world.”
Wyclef Jean also weighed in with his own statement:
“As I celebrate 25 years with the Fugees, my first memory was that we vowed, from the gate, we would not just do music we would be a movement,” said Wyclef in a statement. “We would be a voice for the un-heard, and in these challenging times, I am grateful once again, that God has brought us together.”
Check out the tour dates below, and go to Ticketmaster to get your Fugees tickets today!
Usher and Lauryn Hill will headline the Lovers & Friends Festival in Las Vegas in 2022. The Hip-Hop and R&B extravaganza will be a nonstop parade of 90’s and 2000’s musical nostalgia. Usher opened his Vegas residency to adoring fans earlier this month. It’s only right that he headlines this widely anticipated festival in the same city.
The music fest features some heavy-hitters. In addition to Usher and Lauryn Hill headlining, Ludacris, TLC, and other headliners will perform.
The festival will finally make its debut next year.
The Lovers & Friends Festival was originally supposed to take place in Los Angeles. It was rescheduled twice in 2020. However, those final plans were abandoned due to the global pandemic. Live Nation, Snoop Dogg, and Bobby Dee will present the festival.
The full Lovers & Friends lineup is as follows:
Usher, Lauryn Hill, Ludacris, Lil Jon, TLC, Ciara, Nelly, Ashanti, Ja Rule, Ne-Yo, Trey Songz, Brandy, Monica, Timbaland, Akon, T-Pain, Lil Kim, Sean Paul, Fabolous, Eve, The-Dream, Ginuwine, Xscape, Jodeci, Keith Sweat, Mase, Fat Joe, Cassie, Twista, Mya, Cam’ron, SWV, Sean Kingston, Trick Daddy, Pretty Ricky, Joe, Dru Hill, Next, 112, Mario, Donell Jones, Foxy Brown, Trina, Tweet, Amerie, Kelis, Juvenile, Too Short, Ying Yang Twins, Mike Jones, Lloyd, Jon B, Kevin Lyttle, Baby Bash, Frankie J and Nina Sky.
Usher and Lauryn bring excitement, but potential controversy looms
In 2019, Lil Kim was slated to perform at the original Lovers and Friends fest. She later announced that she had nothing to do with the event. Her name was still used to promote the event. Fans began to wonder if the lineup and festival were real, hoping to avoid another Fyre Fest-like dilemma. Lauryn Hill isn’t exactly known for her punctuality, so it’s hard to predict who concertgoers will actually see perform.
The Lovers & Friends Festival will take place at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds Saturday, May 14, 2022.
Tickets start at $175 and will be available for a special presale on August 2 at 10 a.m. General public tickets will become available for purchase at 2 p.m.
