On April 17, 2018, the world was blessed with the announcement from the queen of Rap and the queen of music, Ms. Lauryn Hill. She announced that she will be going on a U.S. tour to celebrate the 20th anniversary of her debut album, an album that I continue to hold near and dear to my heart: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. From July to October, people will be graced with the beauty that is the music of Lauryn Hill.
Some may remember Lauryn Hill from her involvement in the Fugees, alongside Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel, which was a hip-hop group which was notoriously known throughout the 1990s and a bit during the early 2000s.
Deriving from their two studio albums, came a variety of singles, two of my favorite being "Ready or Not" and their rendition of "Killing Me Softly" Her contribution to music continued far beyond her involvement in the Fugees. Upon partaking in a solo career, Lauryn made an outstanding name and legacy for herself and the entire genre of hip-hop music.
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, which was released on August 25, 1998, spoke great volumes in 1998 and continues to do so today. As it is was released a day after my birth, I like to refer to it as the ultimate birthday gift. Listening to it throughout the years has definitely spoken to me, my experiences as a woman, and overall, the realities of everyday life.
I feel as if while I have grown and developed, this album has grown along with me. As The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill turns the ripe age of 20, so will I. From the first track to the last, a story is introduced and meets development.
The success of this album didn't end in 1998, as people around the world continue to play this album and engage themselves in the stories that were told. Almost two decades later, this album's message still lives on and continues to touch the hearts of many.
Based on numbers from 2013, the album has sold over 8 million copies within the United States and about 19 million copies worldwide. This album earned her 10 Grammy nominations, and she successfully won 5 of the 10.
In case you have never listened to this album or just want to listen to it, take a listen:
I know the audio is beautiful, but imagine hearing this beautiful music live! If you're interested in catching Lauryn Hill on tour this summer check out the tour dates:
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