What could be better than watching the somewhat reclusive Ms Lauryn Hill perform all of her 1998 classic album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” in concert? How about having a reunited Fugees on the same bill and getting to hear hits from both “Miseducation” and “The Score” in the same night.
That’s what is going to happen Nov. 9 at Climate Pledge Arena when Hill celebrates the 25th anniversary of her diamond-certified solo debut album along with openers the Fugees.
The Fugees reached stardom in 1996 with the release of “The Score,” an album that seemed inescapable at the time thanks to hits like “Fu-Gee-La,” “Ready or Not” and especially their cover of Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly,” which more or less introduced the world to Hill’s stunning voice. The group broke up in the late 90s due to the tumultuous relationship between Hill and lead Fugee Wyclef Jean.
The breakup led to Hill releasing her own solo album (Jean had released his own solo album in 1997) which became an instant classic upon release. In the years after its release Hill became somewhat reclusive, didn’t tour and when she did perform she often arrived several hours late. That reputation made the idea of a solo tour highly unlikely to some. And her history with Jean made the idea of a Fugees reunion even more unlikely.
However, earlier this summer Hill reunited with her former bandmates during a surprise performance at The Roots Picnic. At the time it was speculated that the performance may have been the final time the group would take the stage together.
While the news of a Fugees reunion tour surprising, it’s not too surprising. In recent years, tours where musicians celebrate the anniversary of their seminal albums have increased in popularity. When an anniversary tour is also a reunion tour, the concerts become a brand of money-making nostalgia concert promoters love and music fans can’t resist.
The Miseducation anniversary/Fugees reunion tour is certain to sell out in every city on its itinerary, so set a calendar reminder and prepare your wallets for when tickets for the concert go on sale Aug. 25 at 10 a.m. PST.
