Fugees

Biography

Fugees, an American hip hop group, formed in South Orange, New Jersey, in 1990. The trio consisted of Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill, and Pras Michel. Their name was derived from the term "refugees," referencing the Haitian heritage of Jean and Michel. The group was known for its unique blend of hip hop, soul, reggae, and R&B.

Early Career and "Blunted on Reality"

In their early years, the group was known as Tranzlator Crew. After signing with Ruffhouse Records, which was distributed by Columbia Records, in 1993, they changed their name to Fugees. Their debut album, "Blunted on Reality," was released in 1994. While it initially had limited commercial success, it gained underground recognition with tracks like "Nappy Heads" and "Vocab."

"The Score" and Mainstream Success

The Fugees achieved massive international success with their second album, "The Score," released in 1996. The album topped the Billboard 200 chart and has been certified 7x Platinum in the United States. It featured hit singles including "Killing Me Softly," "Ready or Not," and "Fu-Gee-La." "The Score" won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 1997. Their cover of Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly" also won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The album is considered one of the best-selling hip hop albums of all time.

Disbandment and Solo Careers

Despite their immense success, the group disbanded in 1997 due to internal conflicts, particularly between Hill and Jean. Each member went on to pursue a solo career.

Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill released her critically acclaimed solo album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," in 1998. The album was a massive success, earning her five Grammy Awards in 1999, including Album of the Year and Best New Artist. The album blended hip hop, soul, and reggae, with deeply personal lyrics. Despite the success, Hill largely retreated from the public eye to focus on her family, releasing a live album, "MTV Unplugged No. 2.0," in 2002.

Wyclef Jean

Wyclef Jean launched his solo career with the 1997 album "Wyclef Jean Presents The Carnival." The album was a hit, featuring the popular single "Gone till November." He went on to release several more albums, often incorporating his Haitian roots. Jean also became a successful producer, working with artists like Destiny's Child and Santana. He co-wrote the massive hit "Hips Don't Lie" with Shakira. Beyond music, Jean has been involved in humanitarian work and even attempted a presidential run in Haiti in 2010.

Pras Michel

Pras Michel also embarked on a solo career, achieving a major hit with the 1998 single "Ghetto Supastar (That Is What You Are)" featuring Ol' Dirty Bastard and Mýa. The song was part of his debut solo album of the same name. Michel has also been involved in filmmaking and political activism. In recent years, he has faced legal challenges.

Reunions and Legacy

The Fugees have had brief reunions over the years, including a European tour in 2005 and a performance at Dave Chappelle's Block Party. A reunion tour was planned in 2021 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of "The Score" but was ultimately canceled. The Fugees are widely regarded as one of the most influential hip hop groups of the 1990s, recognized for their innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics.