Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean Celebrate the African Diaspora Through Music and Community

Moments before Lauryn Hill connected with The Associated Press, she stood with her Fugees bandmate Wyclef Jean in the heart of London’s Piccadilly Circus, surrounded by enthusiastic fans. Above them, a bright LED screen displayed an animated, colorful collage curated by Hill and created by Los Angeles artist Lauren Halsey. It portrayed the heroes and symbols of the global African diaspora, sending a message of community, culture, music, and art.

Celebrating Community and Culture

“The crowd was captivated,” Hill recalled, while Jean described the moment as “surreal.” He added, “The love was felt. It was amazing.” This served as a prelude to Hill’s upcoming event, Diaspora Calling!, which will make its UK debut. The festival marks ten years since its first edition in Brooklyn.

This weekend, the event will take place at The National Bowl in Milton Keynes, hosted by Dave Chappelle and featuring performances by various artists, including Erykah Badu and Giggs. Hill and Jean, as a core part of the Fugees, will perform their landmark album “The Score” entirely.

Interview Insights

AP: Why bring Diaspora Calling! to the UK?

HILL: We found an opportunity with the promoters from Reggae Land, and I decided to seize it. It’s about bringing people together for growth and healing.

Hill expressed her intention to host more international editions, emphasizing the widespread African diaspora. She recounted the origins of the festival in Ghana and meeting someone whose connection sparked the creation of this event. Hill acknowledged the community she and Jean have built over the years, even beyond the Fugees.

In terms of choosing performers, Hill explained, “We reach out to those we love and respect,” highlighting the cooperation she receives from the creative community.

Performing “The Score”

AP: How has your relationship to the album “The Score” changed?

HILL: The album is timeless. It holds a special place for us.

JEAN: It’s like experiencing it for the first time every time. It resonates as deeply as classic albums like Bob Marley’s “Exodus.”

Hill added that performing “The Score” at Diaspora Calling! is unique. “Our makeup is diaspora calls,” she explained, referring to their message of unity and brilliance among the diaspora. The album serves as a call to resist certain ideas and celebrate resourcefulness and intelligence.

Honoring D’Angelo’s Legacy

AP: As we approach the anniversary of D’Angelo’s passing, how do you hope he is remembered?

HILL: D’Angelo made timeless music. We want to honor his legacy and protect his family’s privacy.

Through her words and actions, Hill showcases a commitment to fostering a global dialogue about culture, music, and history.