PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 03: Lauryn Hill and Pras Michel of The Fugees perform during the 2023 Roots Picnic at The Mann on June 03, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Kayla Oaddams/Getty Images)
Tensions have emerged between former bandmates Pras Michél and Lauryn Hill of the legendary hip-hop group Fugees. Michél has filed a lawsuit against Hill alleging mishandling of their finances and tour arrangements.
According to court documents, Michél claims Hill leveraged their highly anticipated 2023 reunion tour for personal gain. He believes expenses were inflated with “unnecessary and likely fictitious expenses” rendering the tour unprofitable by design. Hill reportedly took 40% of guarantees and profits before the remaining 60% was split 3 ways.
Michél ended up owing close to $1 million due to losses. Requests for a financial audit were denied after the fact. Problems also emerged regarding a planned 2024 tour. Hill signed a deal with Live Nation for 18 shows without informing Michél. Poor ticket sales led to its cancellation, which Michél attributes to a lack of marketing and short notice.
Further accusations include Hill turning down a $5 million Coachella performance to boost her son’s set. She purportedly asked Michél to perform for free as an opener. Constant lateness to shows by 2-3 hours is also cited as tarnishing the Fugees brand.
Michél suggests Hill exploited his need for money to pay legal fees stemming from his involvement in a financial scandal.
However, Hill refutes the accusations calling the suit baseless and full of lies. She says Michél received a $3 million advance, and she and Wyclef deferred their fees to accommodate him. Hill also covered most tour expenses while Michél “just had to show up.”
Their comments provide differing perspectives on the business dealings and inner-workings surrounding the highly successful hip-hop group’s efforts to tour once more. Legal battles now risk overshadowing their legacy.
