Word: wyclef
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Dates: during 1990-1999
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...Wyclef Jean of the Fugees has just released a solo album, The Carnival, and fortunately he fits the first scenario. The Fugees reached the top of the charts by mixing reggae, rap and positive messages. Wyclef, as he is known, has not broken with his bandmates, Prakazrel ("Pras") Michel and Lauryn Hill--the trio are already planning their next record together. But The Carnival is a fine showcase for Wyclef's particular talents and wide-ranging tastes...
...album reflects an eclectic, global vision. Wyclef grew up in Haiti, and he fills The Carnival with Caribbean rhythms and references; in fact, some of the songs are sung in Haitian Creole. In other songs, like We Trying to Stay Alive, Wyclef samples the Bee Gees, while in Gunpowder, he makes a powerful plea against violence. He even manages a skillful hip-hop version of Guantanamera. Like the Fugees' cover of Killing Me Softly, Guantanamera refashions an old song that is almost too familiar and makes it contemporary and vital. Altogether, the variety and reach of the album are extraordinary...
...does have flaws. First off, there are just too many tracks. Like many rappers these days, Wyclef should think hard about recording less and editing himself more. Most of the 24 songs on The Carnival are excellent, but it's a pain to have to skip past the weaker ones; it's the musical equivalent of having to throw out all those superfluous sections of the Sunday paper. The album also contains some nonmusical skits, concerned with subjects like being falsely accused of rape by groupies, that are supposed to be funny. They...
...releasing some big albums this season, including The Carnival, the first solo release from Wyclef Jean of the Fugees, and Wu-Tang Forever, from the rap group Wu-Tang Clan. But when it comes to this summer's live performances, women are out in front...
...album Take a Look over Your Shoulder: "This has gone too far. It's making us look like animals." Says rapper Ahmir of the progressive Philadelphia hip-hop band the Roots: "I thought Tupac's death was a wake-up call. I guess we hit the snooze button." Adds Wyclef of the socially conscious hip-hop band the Fugees: "We all need to chill out for a second and step back. It's just entertainment, after...