Lauryn Hill is an American singer, songwriter, and rapper known for her influential role in hip-hop and R&B. Born on May 26, 1975, in South Orange, New Jersey, she first gained prominence as a member of the Fugees, a hip-hop group that blended rap with elements of reggae and soul. Their 1996 album, *The Score*, achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, featuring hits like "Killing Me Softly" and "Ready or Not." Hill's solo career took off with her debut album, *The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill* (1998), which showcased her unique fusion of hip-hop, soul, and reggae. The album received widespread acclaim, earning five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Its themes of love, self-identity, and social issues resonated with a diverse audience, solidifying her impact on music and culture. Lauryn Hill's artistry has influenced a generation of artists across genres, particularly in the realms of neo-soul and conscious hip-hop. Though her output has been sporadic since the late 1990s, her work remains highly regarded, and she is celebrated as a pioneering figure for women in music.