The Fugees are officially back.
Fans were surprised earlier this week when it was announced that the award-winning trio of Wyclef Jean, Ms.Lauryn Hill and Pras were getting back together for a reunion world tour to celebrate the 25th-anniversary of their critically-acclaimed second studio album, The Score. But the Fugees made it official on Wednesday (Sept 22) night, with a pop-up show in New York City.
Taking the stage for the first time in 15 years, the beloved group rocked NYC's Pier 17 with renditions of their classic tracks from the diamond-selling 1996 album that made them superstars. On a gusty evening in Lower Manhattan, fans endured a three-and-a-half-hour wait for the history-making performance.
With a cadre of backup singers and a 10-piece live band, the Fugees appeared to be in top form, despite their extended hiatus. Wyclef addressed the crisis involving Haitian immigrants at the U.S. border; while Lauryn interjected commentary about the Fugees history and controversial breakup.
Diaspora Calling Presents The Fugees kicks off in Chicago, Illinois on Nov. 2. You can check out some reactions to the pop-up show below.
Show started three hours late but totally worth it to hear Killing Me Softly #FugeesReunion #Fugee pic.twitter.com/HTF0EibxoE
— Jeremy Wein (@thismyshow) September 23, 2021
the fugees came out with a ten piece band. full horn section, backup singers. beautiful chaos. clef tried to get lauryn to do a freestyle but she told the story of how they met instead. we got all the hits from the score and "how many mics" and "zealots." still in disbelief tbh.
— Craig Bro Dude (@CraigSJ) September 23, 2021
The Fugees’ setlist tonight. (But Lauryn didn’t do “Nobody”) pic.twitter.com/uUhAyqIQVV
— Andrew (The Aretha Version) (@SoulAtlantic) September 23, 2021
As soon as she touched the stage I caught that good art chill! Fugees 25th anniversary preview was special. pic.twitter.com/3qJ4tRgkzd
— Jesse Kirshbaum (@JesseKay) September 23, 2021