The Fugees, an American hip hop trio formed in 1990 in South Orange, New Jersey, consists of Wyclef Jean, Pras Michel, and Lauryn Hill. Known for their innovative fusion of reggae, R&B, funk, and hip hop, the group avoided gangsta rap, establishing themselves as influential alternative hip hop artists. The Fugees incorporated elements of Haitian Creole in their music and were pioneers in using live instrumentation in hip hop performances.
Signing with Ruffhouse Records in 1993, The Fugees released their debut album ‘Blunted on Reality’ in 1994, blending political hip hop, jazz, and neo soul. Their second album ‘The Score’ in 1996 propelled them to the top of the music scene, achieving platinum status and spawning hit singles like ‘Ready or Not’ and ‘Killing Me Softly’. Despite internal conflicts leading to their disbandment, The Fugees have reunited for special performances and tours, cementing their legacy as one of the best-selling and most acclaimed hip hop groups of all time.