Wyclef Jean’s long-awaited return to London became an unforgettable night of music and nostalgia when he was unexpectedly joined on stage by Ms. Lauryn Hill. The surprise reunion marked a rare moment in music history, as the former Fugees bandmates have only shared a stage twice since the group’s 1997 breakup.
The two artists, whose personal and professional relationship fractured in the late ’90s, appeared united on stage at Camden’s KOKO on Saturday, August 24. Together, they performed four songs, including the Fugees chart-topping cover of Roberta Flack’s Killing Me Softly and Ready or Not.
Any past rift between them seemed to be set aside, at least professionally. At the end of their set, Jean stepped off stage to join fans in applauding Ms. Hill, creating a powerful image of respect and reconciliation.
Before Ms. Hill’s entrance, the Grammy-winning singer, rapper, and producer delivered nearly two hours of music, backed by a live band. Famously multilingual, Jean switched seamlessly between rapping in English, Haitian Creole, Spanish, French, and Japanese.
The evening also served as a platform for new work. Jean premiered Back from Abu Dhabi, a single featuring French Montana and Rick Ross, due for release in three weeks.
Fittingly titled “Karnivalé : One Night Only,” the Wyclef Jean concert coincided with Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest celebration of Caribbean heritage. Fans were treated to a show that blended Jean’s music history and new beginnings.