In an awe-inspiring display of musical brilliance, Ms. Lauryn Hill took the stage at Wolf Trap, leaving the audience captivated with a rare live performance commemorating the 25th anniversary of her groundbreaking album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill made history at the 41st GRAMMY Awards in 1999, securing Lauryn five awards in various categories, and establishing her as the first African American woman to win five Grammys in a single year. While she had already made waves as the sole female member of the Fugees, it was this debut solo album that solidified her status as a musical legend at the tender age of 22. With her soulful voice, impeccable lyricism, and fierce independence, she shattered the silence surrounding black feminist issues in hip-hop and claimed unprecedented power and space.

Stream The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill on Spotify:

The evening commenced with DJ Reborn, whose energy and carefully curated selection of tracks set the perfect tone for the night. Her seamless transitions and infectious beats had the crowd grooving and primed for Ms. Lauryn’s arrival. DJ Reborn’s vibrant mix of old-school classics and contemporary tunes not only warmed up the audience but also paid homage to the roots and influences that shaped Ms. Hill’s unique sound. The audience danced and swayed, eagerly awaiting the main act.

DJ Reborn warms up the crowd at Wolf Trap before Ms. Lauryn Hill takes the stage, June 9, 2023. (Photo by Ari Strauss)

With a burst of applause, Ms. Lauryn finally graced the stage, radiating an aura of confidence and poise in a full-length evening gown, white jacket, and a most exquisite black hat. Her mere presence sent waves of excitement through the crowd. Opening her set with the timeless hit “Everything Is Everything,” her words pierced the air, commanding attention and reminding us of her undeniable talent and impact on the music industry.

The performance seamlessly transitioned into “Superstar,” as Lauryn effortlessly showcased her ability to blend soul, R&B, and hip-hop into a harmonious fusion. Her voice remained as enchanting as ever, carrying an emotional depth that resonated with every lyric. The audience responded with thunderous applause, their voices melding with hers as they sang along in unison.

A true highlight of the night came with her rendition of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the Frankie Valli cover that appeared as a hidden track on the “Miseducation” album. Putting her soulful spin on this ’60s classic, Lauryn’s infectious energy was impossible to resist, as she effortlessly commanded the attention of every individual in the venue. The song’s infectious rhythm and uplifting message created an atmosphere of unity and hope, leaving the audience feeling invigorated and inspired.

Enjoy Lauryn Hills rendition of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” with photos and lyrics on YouTube:

Throughout the evening, Lauryn seamlessly blended her timeless hits with moments of improvisation, showcasing her artistic prowess and musical versatility. Supported by a tight-knit ensemble, her soulful vocals and dynamic stage presence were perfectly complemented. Together, they crafted an unforgettable experience that reminded us why Lauryn remains an iconic figure in music.

Overall, Ms. Lauryn’s performance at Wolf Trap was a testament to her enduring legacy. She effortlessly transported the audience back to a pivotal era in music history while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of her own artistry. With her powerful vocals, thought-provoking lyrics, and captivating stage presence, Lauryn solidified her status as an icon and left the audience craving for more.

This rare live performance of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill served as a reminder of the profound impact a single album can have. It goes beyond chart-topping success, serving as a declaration of independence and a testament to the enduring power of music. Lauryn’s artistry continues to resonate with audiences across generations, reminding us of the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and the ability to inspire change through the power of song.

Setlist:

1. Everything Is Everything
2. Superstar
3. When It Hurts So Bad
4. Final Hour
5. Lost Ones
6. Every Ghetto, Every City
7. I Used to Love Him
8. Ex-Factor
9. To Zion
10. Nothing Even Matters
11. Forgive Them Father
12. Can’t Take My Eyes Off You (Frankie Valli cover)
13. Tell Him
14. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
15. Doo Wop (That Thing)

We hope you enjoy some additional photos from Ms. Lauryn Hill’s 25th-anniversary performance of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill on June 9, 2023, at Wolf Trap. All images are copyrighted and courtesy of Ari Strauss (@aristraussphoto).