Hill, Wyclef Fuel Fugees Reunion Hopes at Anniversary Concert
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- Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean spoke to BBC News ahead of a one-day festival marking the 30th anniversary of The Score, the Fugees' last studio album, released in 1996 and featuring Ready or Not, Fu-Gee-La, and Killing Me Softly.
- Wyclef Jean broke into song during the interview to declare he is "back with my bandmate," saying "we're in God's hands" and describing the group as "in an amazing place" with energy he called "very important."
- Neither Hill nor Jean confirmed that a new Fugees album is currently being recorded, though Hill answered "Absolutely" when asked if there would be music in the future.
- Pras Michel, the group's third member, is currently serving a US prison sentence following his conviction in a federal lobbying and fraud case, a fact the interview did not address.
- The "Diaspora Calling!" festival, curated by Hill, will make its UK debut at Milton Keynes National Bowl on Friday, with a lineup including Erykah Badu, Giggs, Fireboy DML, YG Marley, and Zion Marley, hosted by Dave Chappelle.
- Hill and Jean surprised fans earlier the same day with a pop-up a cappella performance of Ready or Not at London's Piccadilly Circus, with Hill calling London a "full-circle moment" because of its diaspora representation.
- Jean said emerging artists are now rejecting TikTok and Instagram virality — "I just need people to listen to my music" — while Hill urged patience, declaring "Art is not gone yet" and advising young musicians to "respect your audience, respect yourself."
Why it matters: The Fugees haven't released a studio album since 1996's The Score, making Hill and Jean's hints about future music significant — but third member Pras Michel is serving a US prison sentence, leaving a full reunion practically unresolved. The Milton Keynes show instead positions the duo to project the band's "movement" identity, with Jean noting themes around refugees explored 30 years ago "remain as relevant as ever."
