BET Awards 2024: 5 Iconic Musical Contributions from Ms. Lauryn Hill
Ms. Lauryn Hill and her son, YG Marley, lit up the stage at the BET Awards 2024, hosted by actress, author, and producer Taraji P. Henson on June 30.
Hill captivated the audience with a powerful performance of hits from her iconic solo album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, including the title track and “Lost Ones.” Marley also impressed with his chart-topping song “Praise Jah in the Moonlight.”
The industry veteran, marked by her work with the Fugees and her acclaimed solo endeavors, has left a lasting legacy. Her soulful melodies, profound lyrics, and fearless exploration of social and personal themes have reshaped the music landscape, making her an enduring icon and inspiration for future generations.
Relive the culture’s biggest night and check out five iconic musical contributions from Ms. Lauryn Hill.
Her Work with The Fugees
Before her solo success, Hill was a member of the hip-hop collective. Their second album, The Score, was a massive commercial and critical success, featuring hits like “Killing Me Softly,” “Ready or Not,” and “Fu-Gee-La.” The singer’s soulful vocals and insightful lyrics were integral to the group's unique sound and success.
“The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill”
Released in 1998, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. The album blends hip-hop, R&B, soul, and reggae, showcasing Hill's versatility as a singer, rapper, and songwriter. It won five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, making Hill the first female hip-hop artist to win that prestigious award.
“Doo Wop (That Thing”)
The lead single from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, “Doo Wop (That Thing)” topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart upon its release. The song's message encourages self-respect and empowerment, especially for women, and criticizes materialism and superficial relationships.
Its innovative music video, which juxtaposes scenes from the 1960s with the 1990s, remains iconic in music history.
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“Ex-Factor”
Another standout track from Hill’s only solo release, “Ex-Factor” is a poignant ballad about the complexities of a troubled relationship.
The singer’s emotional delivery and honest lyrics have made it a timeless classic, often cited as one of her best songs. Numerous artists have covered and sampled the track, highlighting its lasting impact on the music industry.
Unplugged 2.0
In 2002, Lauryn Hill released MTV Unplugged No. 2.0, a live album that showcased her raw, acoustic performances.
The project features deeply personal songs that reflect her spiritual journey and struggles with fame. Although it received mixed reviews then, it has since been appreciated for its vulnerability and authenticity, offering a different perspective on Hill's artistry.