ECNETNews reports that the much-anticipated 2024 tour of the band has been abruptly canceled, just days before it was set to start. The cancellation is reportedly due to disappointing ticket sales, which Pras attributes to Hill’s history of being an unreliable performer and her delay in finalizing arrangements with a major entertainment company, limiting promotional efforts.
Adding to the controversy, a recent lawsuit has been filed following the release of Pras’ song “Bar Mitzfa.” The track, which seemingly targets Hill, was released in August and addresses themes that are now central to the legal dispute.
Lauryn Hill, in a statement, refuted the claims made by Pras, stating:
It’s important to clarify the facts. My silence was not an endorsement of his allegations; I believed his legal struggles were affecting his judgment.
Fact #1: Pras’ lawsuit is filled with inaccuracies and unfounded claims. He received an advance for the last tour and has not repaid significant loans extended to him as a gesture of goodwill. The tour was organized to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of my album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. This celebration was planned irrespective of the Fugees’ involvement.
Fact #2: The tour was expanded to include the Fugees when I learned of Pras’ financial difficulties and his need for funding for his legal defense.
Fact #3: Pras was granted a $3 million advance for the tour to cover his legal fees, with Wyclef and myself deferring our full advances to assist him. I assumed most of the financial responsibilities for the tour, as the bulk of the advance was allocated to Pras. An agreement was made to ensure the repayment of the funds he received, which he has yet to fulfill, breaching our contract.
Fact #4: The production and setup for my tour were already in motion, utilizing the same arrangements for the Fugees’ performances. I managed the majority of the costs and coordinated the show, with Wyclef’s support. Pras merely needed to perform.
Fact #5: Recently, Pras expressed gratitude to me for ‘saving his life.’ (Documentation available.)
Fact #6: I am not one to take advantage of anyone’s misfortunes, which is why I have refrained from responding until now. It’s disheartening to see a former friend and collaborator in this situation; however, it segues into Fact #7, which should have been stated first…
Fact #7: I was not involved in Pras’ decision-making that led to his current legal issues and do not bear responsibility for those choices, despite my efforts to assist him. I still wish him well, regardless of the allegations.
Respectfully, MLH
