Source: Christopher Polk / Getty
Ms. Lauryn Hill and her bandmates Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel collectively known as The Fugees canceled their national tour (the international dates are still happening) earlier this week—just three days before it was due to kickoff this week in Tampa.
In a statement, Hill blamed the media for “sensationalizing” the fact that she canceled her 2023 tour dates which, she said, resulted in low ticket sales.
In a social media post, Hill wrote, “Last year, I faced an injury that necessitated the rescheduling of some of my shows. Regrettably, some media outlets’ penchant for sensationalism and clickbait headlines have seemingly created a narrative that has affected ticket sales for the North American portion of the tour. The trust and faith I have in my intentions and my commitment to my art seem to have been overshadowed by this unfortunate portrayal.”
She noted that the scheduled shows in the UK and Europe are moving forward, adding, “The audiences in the UK and Europe not only haven’t seen the Miseducation Anniversary performance yet, they also haven’t seen the Fugees perform together in over 25 years!”
— Ms. Lauryn Hill (@MsLaurynHill) August 7, 2024
Hill noted, “Performing for my fans is a profound exchange of energy and emotion that excites me every time. Every show is a piece of my expression and testament to our connection and shared love for music. I can assure you that no one is more disappointed about not being able to perform than I am.”
She adds, “Know that I am not only grateful for those who appreciate and support my art, but that I FIGHT and push through all kinds of resistance to put together experiences that mean something for all of us. I love being able to bring these performances to you!”
Hill vowed to return and perform in front of North American fans again. She signed the statement, “With Love, Respect and Honesty.”
Some fans on social media lamented the tour’s cancelation.
ITS SO DISHEARTENING BEING A FAN OF LAURYN HILL. Last October, a hour before the show in Dallas, it was cancelled with no warning. I tried again this run even when EVERYONE clowned me saying I was foolish for trying. Cancelled AGAIN. I love Lauryn man. But damn yo. DO BETTER.
— P. Lo Jetson (@PLoJetson) August 6, 2024
But, others just thought it was more of the same.
Lauryn Hill should get blacklisted from concert venues for all the shit she’s gotten away with. Canceling the Fugees tour 3 days before it starts and being habitually 2-3 hours late to every show. Have some fucking dignity to your own consumers girl
— Kaiser (@KaiserDTM_1) August 7, 2024
The Fugees canceling the tour 3 days before it starts is very much what we’d all expect
Better be glad they canceled and didn’t stand the folks up on day of
— CigarsNBrown Papi (@TrueBreed_Naldo) August 7, 2024
Meanwhile, Hill’s 1995 debut was named #1 on Apple Music’s list of the 100 Best Albums in May of this year.
We surprised @MsLaurynHill at an intimate dinner in New York to tell her that The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was No. 1 on our #100BestAlbums list. What does this album mean to you? pic.twitter.com/BslciRVEm0
— Apple Music (@AppleMusic) May 22, 2024
