Lauryn Hill

Similar to several other great artists throughout the ages, Lauryn Hill’s career has been marred by legal scandals and personal struggles that undoubtedly prevented her from realising her true potential. Yet, despite her few musical releases, there is no question that she is one of the most important acts of our time and today – her 38th birthday - we are celebrating her contributions to popular culture.

Both as a solo artist and a member of the Fugees, Hill served as a pillar of the Hip-Hop and R&B movements of the 1990s. Her relatable lyrics and distinct tone made her the voice of a generation, and a driving force for young women in an era when female sexuality was defined by hypersexual representations put forward by Lil Kim and Foxy Brown.

Even when Hill buckled under the pressure of the media’s fascination with her unconventional icon status – she was certainly a contrast to the overblown divas (Mariah Carey), sugary Pop stars (Britney Spears) and ghetto fabulous performers (Mary J. Blige) at the turn of the century – she remained defiant. Hill refused to sacrifice her integrity for fame and she let her artistry speak for itself without ever relying on propaganda to boost her status in the industry. Sadly, the same can’t be said about Jay-Z.

So, to honor Hill on her 38th birthday, let’s take a look back at 10 of her greatest songs. Check out the list below:

10. “To Zion (Ft. Carlos Santana)”

9. “War In The Mind or Freedom Time”

8. “Turn Your Lights Down Low”

7. “Everything is Everything”

6. “Ex-Factor”

5. “Ready or Not”

4. “Lost Ones”

3. “Killing Me Softly”

2. “Fu-Gee-La”

1. “Doo Wop (That Thing)”

When people talk about the greatest female rappers of all time, Hill’s name is often overlooked in favour of Lil Kim or Missy Elliott, yet she has crafted some of the most lyrically sound pieces of any Hip-Hop act. In fact, her work on the Fugees’ The Score album (“The Mask”, “Fu-Gee-La”, “How Many Mics”) easily ranks her among the best rappers of any gender, although those who adhere to patriarchal ideologies of the Hip-Hop community refuse to acknowledge that she Hill is more skilled than their favourite male rappers.

However, Hill’s influence extends far beyond Hip-Hop. Adding to the legacy of her idol, Bob Marley, Hill also stands as a key figure of the Reggae movement and emphasises the impact of the genre on American culture. Additionally, Hill has greatly contributed to the development with Hip-Hop/Soul. Yes, Mary J. Blige is often credited as the subgenre’s flagship act but Hill’s brand of Reggae Fusion forms part of its foundation and helped to shape the Neo Soul phenomenon.

Of course, you’re probably wondering if Hill could ever score a successful comeback. With her talent and the respect she commands from music fans, a return to her former glory is quite possible. Still, that will only happen when Hill is ready and judging by her continuing battle against the media, that may be years away.

Bonus: Listen to the Fugees’ “How Many Mics” below:

What is the best Hill song? What is the best tune from those listed above? What song was missing? Vote in our poll and share your opinion!