Before Ms. Lauryn Hill joined a call with The Associated Press, she and Fugees’ bandmate Wyclef Jean were at the heart of London’s Piccadilly Circus, surrounded by fans. Above them on the LED screen of Piccadilly Lights, a short film curated by Hill and created by Los Angeles artist Lauren Halsey played. This animated, colorful collage highlighted heroes and symbols of the global African diaspora. The message was an obvious celebration of community, culture, music, and art.
The crowd was captivated,” Hill stated.
“It was surreal,” Jean added. “The love was felt. It was amazing.”
This was a preview of an upcoming event. On Friday, Hill will introduce her Diaspora Calling! festival to the U.K. for the first time. This marks a decade since its first edition in Brooklyn. Hosted by Dave Chappelle, the festival will feature performers like Erykah Badu, YG Marley, Zion Marley, Giggs, Fireboy DML, and other artists at The National Bowl in Milton Keynes. Central to the festival, Hill and Jean, members of the Fugees, will perform their landmark album “The Score” in full.
During an interview, Hill, joined briefly by Jean, discussed their festival, the 30th anniversary of “The Score,” and remembering the late D’Angelo. This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Bringing Diaspora Calling! to the UK
AP asked why they chose the UK for this edition. Hill explained they were given an opportunity by the promoters who also organize Reggae Land. She felt blessed to have this chance and wanted to unite people in growth and healing.
Expanding Internationally
With the African diaspora widespread, Hill expressed interest in taking the festival to other international venues. She affirmed this interest enthusiastically.
Evolution of the Festival
When asked about the festival’s evolution since its 2016 inception, Hill recounted a show in Ghana. A conversation there inspired her to connect communities across the diaspora. This has been a continuous effort, even after stepping back from Fugees work.
Curating the Festival Lineup
Hill described the process of selecting artists as reaching out to those they appreciate and respect. The creative community has responded positively and eagerly expressed their intentions to participate.
Performing “The Score”
About performing their landmark album, Hill and Jean reflected on its timeless value. Hill conveyed a sense of renewal and the album’s enduring spirit. Jean compared “The Score” to timeless works by Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, and others.
Performance Experience
Hill stated that performing at Diaspora Calling! embodies what the Fugees represent—a call for unity, reflection, and resistance to outdated ideas. They aim to emphasize the resourcefulness and genius within the diaspora, standing strong against division.
Remembering D’Angelo
Concluding with thoughts on D’Angelo, Hill wanted to honor and protect the legacy and family of the artist. She emphasized the timeless nature of his music and his undeniable talent.
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