The Fugees

My overall opinion of The Fugees is very scattered. To me, they sound like any other rap group. I tend to zone out with hip-hop and rap songs because usually the beat is very consistent and uninteresting. Even with the different rappers singing different parts, that can hold my attention for maybe a few extra seconds, but after that I am lost again. But what really makes me reconsider The Fugees is Lauryn Hill. She is incredible. Her voice is strong and it really stands out against the somewhat dull sound. She really gives the songs life and originality. One example where I think she really outshines the other group members is in "Ready or Not." From the very beginning, she starts off powerful and eerie. But what is great about her power is it comes from the tone of her voice, not the volume of it.

The songs without Lauryn Hill are very dull and boring. Usually they have very little change in melody and without Hill's strong and controlling voice, it leaves the song very blasé. And I know you might say, "But their lyrics are ingenious." And that may be. But for me, a song can't just have good lyrics and an alright beat. If lyrics were the only thing that mattered, then I would listen to poetry, not a song. I'm looking for something that can hold my attention, and if the lyrics are incredible, then that is a plus. I feel like people look down on me because lyrics aren't important to me. I'm not an active listener. I never have been and I'm not sure I ever will be. Yes this class has taught me more about where lyrics come from and how they affect the songs, but they just aren't a huge deal to me.

"Killing Me Softly with His Song" is definitely another song that shows off Hill's talents. Again what is so great about her voice is the subtle power - if that makes sense. Everything she sings sounds so effortless, yet strong, but never forced. She always sounds very composed and together, and I really enjoy listening to her songs.

 

 

Ending on a COMPLETELY different note, I was kind of saddened by the fact that Lauryn Hill is going to jail because she hasn't paid over $1 million in taxes. I mean, how hard is it to pay your taxes? You're wealthy, you've had a fabulous career, just pay your darn taxes. And if you can't afford the taxes, then don't buy things with such high taxes. That's all.