Reviews (page 3 of 13)
One of the albums that got me firmly into hip hop. So lush and Lauryn Hill is on fire. Still sounds fresh today. Love it.
I went in knowing all the hits, and I have to say, I was blown away. The songs all have such a strong sound, vibe, and commentary. And Hill's voice is entrancing. Really finding it hard to fault this one. I'd probably give it a 4.5/5, but I think it earns a five.
Um clássico. Não tenho muito a dizer.
Amazing
Ok. I didn't know, but I grew up with Fugees, and this album, many of these songs were playing when I was a teenager, in dancehalls, at parties. So, listening to the album, I thought it was about remembering my past, I thought I knew about Fugees, but listening to this album now, in 2025, I've come to realize it is bigger than that. This is a masterpiece. It represents the 90's but also many things that were happening around the Americas, in Brazilian suburbs. It's strong, powerful. It's a very important part of my life and about the place I was born.
Love this album and was so excited when it came up in the rotation! Listened three times in a row....
Always good to get an album you already own. Superb.
Changed my life.
straight bangers this is such a vibe
An absolute hip hop/R&B masterpiece
This shit feels legendary. The beats are full and heavy, but never drown the voices. The interplay of the vocals has that same magic you hear in De La Soul or Tribe. It’s cool, it’s confident, it’s timeless. Spins: 1 Playlist Additions: - How Many Mics - Ready or Not - Zealots - Fu-Gee-La - Killing Me Softly With His Song - No Woman, No Cry
Never knew so many classic came from this albums, never knew they were called Fugees, a lot of new old things to learn. Fascinating and intellectual while also playful
thoughts: the “i only have eyes for you” sample in “zealots” is SO GOOD (i had no idea this was a thing until now!). this is a tour de force for sure. all three members of the group get their own distinctive style and their own spotlight. the “killing me softly” cover stands on its own two feet almost 30 years later, sounding as fresh as it did when it was released. there are a couple of tracks that are just kinda there but otherwise, this is incredible stuff songs: “zealots”, “the beast”, “killing me softly with his song” rating: 9.5/10
Sit. Listen. Enjoy. No notes
Phenomenal rhymes here—at times hilarious, but always powerful and ready to spread a deeper message. The mixing is lovely all around and really helps to elevate the rhythm and flow. I particularly liked the shout-outs to and samples of other songs! Enya on “Ready or Not” was a pleasant surprise, but hearing the opening to “Nights in White Satin” at the end of “The Mask” floored me. There’s a reason the Fugees are regarded as a legendary group in hip-hop, and that reason is clear as day with this album.
it's the fucking fugees u numbskulls this shit slaps
This album is very very good. Instant classic. I love the dark atmosphere and slower bpm. Intonation amazing . Fu-Gee-La a favorite Recognizable songs in this album Cool sampling. I can see where this has influenced modern phone
Although i had heard of this album and have heard the big singles plenty of times, I was surprised how pure of a hiphop experience a lot of it is. There is a solid mix of different styles, with generally very Minimal production. Though I dont love all of it evenly, its stil a classic with the big hits. It would get a 4.5 from me, but since that isn't an option I'm rounding up.
SO good. They were great weren’t they.
I LOVE THIS ALBUM!!!!!!!!! Always have, always will. The cover of no woman no cry, mask off, and of course ready or not. Just such an excellent hip hop album
What an album - Lauryn, Wyclef, and Forte were creative supergeniuses!
A top 5 hip hop album of all time? Top 3 probably. Just lush immense production and vibes here, everyone is at the peak of their game, Wyclef behind the desk, Pras with his smooth flow, and Lauryn Hill straight defecating on your microphone. This was untouchable until OutKast's Stankonia came around so I'll revert my original hypothesis to top 2 hip hop album of all time.
Love the album, I don’t love the interludes and skits (generally, in any album)
This album always stands as an example of what east coast rap/hip-hop could have been. They were so different and talented. They could rhyme and flow just like tradition hip hop artists, but throw in Lauryn Hill's vocals, the remixing of classic R&B songs, and the smooth sound of Pras' and (especially) Wyclef's Caribbean roots and multicultural background and it was amazing. They kind of came together on Wyclef's The Carnival, but this album has always stood as one of those big "what if's". If they hadn't broken up they could have completely redefined rap, hip hop, and R&B. That said, I think it opened the door for more creative acts to flourish and some of the other big acts of the time to branch out into different sounds.
Whooooaa. An OG album that I honestly had no idea was a part of a larger group.
Somehow they're all the stars, each unique. And the concept... it's great.
Try not to head bop challenge level impossible
Never give in. Always keep score. Stay Wining.
🫶🏾🕺🏿❤️🔥
One of my favorites of all time and a great prequel to the Miseducation of Lauren Hill which is up there with Songs In The Key of Life. Playful and powerful raps that touch the soul. As I listened to this wonderful record again, it dawned on me that this album set the tone and was replicated in one fashion or another many times. Not going to convince me that Lin Manual Miranda did not have the Fugees in mind when he created Hamilton.
Certified hood classic
meu deus do céu que DELÍCIA esse hein só PEDRADA atras de PEDRADA. a lauryn hill manda demais e os outros dois mano não ficam atras não. tudo nesse aqui é bão pra caralho, como pode. um absurdo.
- Ready or Not - Fu-Gee-La - Killing Him Softly - No Woman, No Cry
“You want to impress me, shoot somebody who making my bills high all of the time See, it's easy for cats to kill other cats, it's just the dogs they got trouble with You know what I'm sayin'?”
Mestres
Beats and beats and beats and beats and beats and beats and beats and beats... Takes me back to high school. I don't listen to rap much anymore, but when I do it's the stuff that I listened to in high school and this was one of the major albums that came out at that time. A classic, it's got it all. Clever lyrics, wordplay, Lauryn Hill's voice...the whole thing is great. The skits are a bit much but they're still fun. Can still listen to it the whole way through even though I haven't listened to it in years and probably won't listen to it again for awhile. Maybe it's because it transports me back to happy times, I'm not sure.
I got this in the Columbia House cd club not too long after it came out. My only knock on this album would be Mista Mista which I’ve never loved, but I guess that was an addition to later versions of the album. 5/5, favorites: Zealots, Ready or Not
Snelle inhaal review #8: Luister je gewoon naar de 13 originele nummers en je hebt een prachtig verhalend uur aan muziek, zelfs de skits op dit album zijn gewoon grappig en don't overstay their welcome. Ik vergeet elke keer hoe hard Ready or Not gaat trouwens, gruwelijk sinistere beat. Tweede perfect album van Lauryn Hill op dit lijstje wmb
Amazing ❤️😍❤️
I am willing to entertain arguments that Lauryn Hill is the best living rapper, even though she has written approximately 3 new verses in the last 25 years.
Relistened to some I haven’t heard in a while and heard some new ones
This album surprised me on how it still captivates. It's a time capsule of the mid-90s references, but musically and a really great production still last. This is an album that must be heard for anyone remotely interested in 90s hip-hop.
I havent even finished this but omg, its peak
This was a great album!
Hell yeah, reminds me of getting stoned in Dan's dorm room in college
Beautiful
Great album!
masterpiece
This album lands in the top 10 albums of all time for me. It’s better than a five complete from start to finish.
The Score is a blast from the past. I needed a well known and beloved album to cleanse my brain from always putting too much thought into something new to me. First off, Lauryn Hill is fire. That voice is as smooth as silk and it flows to kill. The beats here are hot. Mostly though, these tracks are simply really really really good and catchy. I still quote this album (“NO STRESSSSS!!”, “Captured your bounty like Elliot Ness, YES!!!”, “and after all my logic and theory, I add a motherfucker so you ignorant nigga’s hear me”, “hey chang wang”). This is without doubt one of the best rap records from the 1990’s because it has a more universal appeal compared to straight gangsta rap. It incorporates elements of soul, reggae and R&B, and it’s hard, but not glock you hard. It’s also the first record that I heard straight up references to 80’s music and culture. Yes, this album put me in a great mood today.
This is one of the greatest hip-hop albums I've heard. It's also very nostalgic, as it was part of the fabric of my sophomore year of college. The production quality is impeccable, and I love the synchronicity with their vocals. The lyrics are so good too, plus they crush the covers. Hard to pick a favorite track. The title track might take that title for me, but I'm a big fan of Ready or Not and Family Business and Fu-Gee-La too. Huge fan of Marley's No Woman No Cry, so that one holds a special place as well. But every song is great in its own right. I love how complete of an album is too...from the intro and outro to the ends of songs flowing into the beginnings of the next ones. It's all just so COOL. I love it. Easy 5.
One of my fav albums.
Really fun album. The Score is probably not as commonly played anymore as it should it. Great beats, solid lyrics, and great vocals. A really fun listen that definitely belongs on this list.
Hadn't listened in a long time. Really no bad songs on the album at all, extremely solid. I even listened an entire second time yesterday because I enjoyed it so much.
4/5
10/10 no notes
One of the best albums ever recorded.
Classic
Love this album. I’ve listened to it front to back probably 5 times now. Def one of my top rap albums of all time.
One of my favorite rap records. Sounds great on vinyl. All three people elevate this album, but Lauryn Hill is the breakout star waiting to happen. I love the production on this. It's got the gritty NY 90's rap feel while still being mastered well. They have some features from other artists, but they are more than able to carry the album on their own which I appreciate. Have listened to this album many times before and will listen many times in the future.
liked it
So so classic
Fantastic milestone in popular rap/r&b music. I adore Lauryn Hill and the rest of the 'band' is as important to this album. A stack of hits is very logical on this album (KMSWHS, Ready Or Not, Fu-Gee-La)
Geweldig en iconisch album. Lauryn Hill is een icoon die best wat meer spotlight verdient in België (opvallend hoe The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill het nummer 1 album is volgens Apple Music, terwijl dit in België niet eens in de top 50 zit. 5.0
This is a fantastic album — full of meaning and full of fun. The delivery is fast and smooth. The music is great. Sometimes the cultural references distract from the message. And some of the skit pieces could be shorter — but they are more entertaining than most rap album skits. Overall, it’s a 5 — the second Lauren Hill album to make it to my desert island.
Oh hell yeah man
Uno de los mejores álbumes de rap
9.5/10 The score continues to show Lauryn Hill’s ability to destroy any kind of product with her crafty writing and lyrics, disgusting flows, and beautiful singing voice like with tracks such as Killing Me Softly with His Song. This is an amazing listen especially for the hip-hop fans. An album worth relistening over and over Favorite Tracks: *Ready or Not*, *Fu-Gee-La*, *Killing Me Softly with His Song*
Strong contender for best album of 1996. And that's a year full of great albums. Wyclef and L were too much talent for one group to contain.
This is a gem. So much personality and personalities, but there’s space for the uniqueness of each. Love it.
That's pretty much how you do it. This is a better than average album without the not so secret weapon that is Lauren hill. With her...it's not even a completion. A five tool player who quite simply does it all better than anyone else of her era. But somehow there is room for three distinct personalities. At least for one go around.
Certains mélomanes écoutent le plus de disques possible pour faire des découvertes. C'est mon genre. D'autres mélomanes vont réécouter tel ou tel album à répétition. C'est le cas de China. J'ai donc écouté et écouté et écouté The Score ces dernières années. Maudit bon album, parfait je dirais: Ready or Not, Killing me Softly. Pas du tout mon genre quand c'est sorti dans les années 90; je n'aurais jamais pensé avoir ces mots pour cet album il y a 25-30 ans. J'aime Cowboys aussi. Je peux aussi décortiquer les disques de Erykah Badu, Fiona Apple...
Un classique, que dire de plus. Du bon rap des années 90, avec des skits en bonus. Bon beats chill, qui devaient faire changement du Gangsta Rap à l’époque! Outre les classiques que son Ready or Not et Killing me softly, j’ai bien aimé The Beast et the Score.
this was absolute gas. 5 stars
I forgot how great this thing is. The interplay between the three of them is amazing, though Lauren is clearly the star. It's fun, it's creative, it's catchy, it's chill but also simmering, and it's the perfect gateway drug to hip-hop. My only complaint is with the sketches, but they're easy enough to skip over.
The daily practice of 1001 has taught me a few things that I've come to recognize this year. The Score brought to light that when I tried to understand this album back in 1996, I was just too ignorant and immature where hip hop was concerned. I did not understand that fusing different genres is not ripping off but rather an evolution of those blended sounds. I recognize now that with The Score the Fugees expanded on their reggae, R&B roots to craft such an expressive masterpiece. I mean, this is common sense to me now but I didn't hear nor understand it back then. I just loved this. I get this!
An album as rich lyrically as it is musically, a key piece in the history of rap. For the most part, it feels consistent, and the performances never disappoint - especially Lauryn Hill, whose performance was practically flawless. The album guides us through a lyrical and sonic landscape that paints a wide range of themes: critiques of the system, inequality, identity, African pride, embracing Afro sounds and culture - jazz, boom bap, soul, reggae - with an unrestrained ability to create lyrical structures. It would take countless words to fully describe how rich and complex this album is - it's a love letter to rap an afro culture
We absolutely played this to death when it came out. Modern hip hoppers take note, this is how you do it! Everything about it just works, great lyrics, samples and tunes. Even the skits are clever and funny. Love it!
Intelligent, a little angry, and with effortless cool. Perfection. The only disappointment it shame here is that the Fugees didn’t stay together. Wow, what could have been. Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was great, Carnival was very good… but the Score is next level. Unmatchable. Six stars if I could. The rhymes, the references, I could go on and on. The Platonic Form of Hip Hop. Lauryn Hill is hands down what elevates this album to a firm 5. 5⭐️
One of the best hip hop albums ever
Three iconic albums in a row?
Scores a 5/5 from me
Yes, Five out of five
The score you ask? five out of five...
10/10 I have always been a fugues fan. Lauryn hill is one of, if not the best, woman MCs. She also can sing like a mfer. Put that with the dancehall influence from wyclef and pras the teamwork to make this album what it is made it an all timer then and now. I know they had more to give and having this be the end of their run is interesting because it feels so full and since they never tried another album it allows the group to go out on the highest of highs. Favorite Song: Ready or Not
Excellent stuff
Love it
Didn’t realize how many classics I grew up with would be on here. Fantastic album.
Buying this one immediately
This album hit, I motherfucking love Lauryn Hill because of Miseducation and I had been meaning to listen to this one for a while so I am glad i got this! Absolutely banger album Lauryn went off and so did Pras and Wyclef, there are actually zero skips here and i love how smoothly the transitions between tracks are as well as how cleanly they can go from singing to rapping. I gotta mention the production too, it’s got that raw 90s sound with its own unique flair which I genuinely love, also the samples are all fantastic. Favorite Tracks: Ready Or Not, Killing Me Softly With His Song, & Fu-Gee-La
It's on the short list for greatest rap album of all time.
Good beats, great interplay between the three of them, and some of the best rhymes I’ve ever heard (particularly from Lauryn, who’s easily the most talented one). Arguably the GOAT rap album.
5 *
Fire 🔥
Brilliant. One of the all-time greats.
Easily one of the best 15 or 25 albums of the 20th century. Game changer in so many ways.
This is an all time classic. Amazing album with incredible range of hip hop, soul and R&B. Each song is a banger, all three vocalists are distinct unique and amazing, production is cool and tasteful.
DOPE
Absolute classic, perfect vibe. Would be dishonest to do anything under 5 after listening to so many of the songs for years.
Klasika
Great album, nice change of pace from the other hip-hop albums of the time. The Chinese restaurant skit isn't great but other than that I greatly enjoyed this one.
This album didn’t hit the way it did when I first heard it back I. The 90’s, but it’s still got some really good tracks on it. The first time I listened to it a sweet high-school student of mine gave me his cd player and headphones to listen to because I had a migraine on the bus to a ski trip. I didn’t end up taking a nap, but I loved the album.
Classic. Good vibe. Is creepin by the Weeknd created based on Ready or not? This album is timeless.
Classic Album. This could be a template for hip-hop albums in general. It still has cuts and samples and variety but isn’t waterlogged by the need to put every technique in every song. The Fugees are a great group and each member has shown their talents as a solo artist. This album is really the only one I listen to because it’s really always been enough. It’s catchy, deep, it goes hard. It was one of my first vinyls and it’s just a great example of what an album could be.
A classic. Had a fantastic afternoon vibing with the beats and trying to pick out all of the samples and interpolations in each song. Three absolute bangers on the track list and the rest of the songs keep you entertained the whole way through. Easy five stars.
Very good and a bit creepier than I remember it sounding. The girl's great I'm sure she'll be releasing many exciting projects in the years to come.
Sensational album. Very creative, I had no idea.
This album fucking rocks. It is a masterpiece from start to finish. Holy hell.
Overall: 9/10 This is my kind of hip hop. It's three incredible MCs putting their skills together to rap about something meaningful. There isn't a second wasted on this thing. I don't live under a rock, so obviously I knew about the endless critical acclaim this album has received. Still, I avoided it for so long cause I was afraid it wouldn't live up to the hype. What a dummy. Like many people, I have a soft spot for Lauryn Hill's voice, and I found myself loving everything 10 times more whenever she started rapping. The other two guys are great rappers as well and get their chances to shine. I can't consider this my all time favourite hip hop album (I'll talk about that one day as it's in the list) but it's amazing and I'll be listening to it nonstop for a while. Fav Song: How Many Mics Least Fav Song: The Beast
Solid boom bap 90s rap with added flair and great production.
4.5
Not the biggest rap/hip hop fan but even after my first listen this is already up there for my favorite of all time in the genre. The whole thing was so so good. An absolute mammoth of an album. If I was more familiar with this then I might have given a perfect score. Rating: 4.9
Putting this on the "1000" list almost doesn't do it justice. This would definitely make the top 100, maybe even 20? It's just so unique and recognizable, and just good - all the way through. It's authentic. It's awesome.
Masterpiece
A 5 star classic if there ever was one. Made even more epic by the myths and legends surrounding the group.
This album is exactly why I started doing 1001 albums. I have heard of the Fugees and this album and the hype around it, but I have never listened to it. It is a masterpiece. The rhymes, vocals and grooves are incredible, so smooth. It would be difficult to say what stood out since almost every track does, but Ready or Not and Fug-Gee-La are the best of the best. This is an amazing hip hop album and overall has to be considered one of the best albums in any genre.
Lots of talent here. L Boogie's voice and pure 90s hiphop nostalgia bumps it up to a 5
Absolute smasher!
5 - This is a genre defining album. Absolutely perfect in so many ways.
I tried this but maybe it was my mood I don't know but I didn't make it through, no reflection on this as it is clearly a great record just not for me Polymath
Was going to give it four stars, but a paradigm of its genre, and I feel like I'd get more out of the album if I listened to it while driving instead of as background noise while working. "Killing Me Softly" is unbelievable.
I didn't know who this was before I started to listen to the album, then I realized I knew a few songs, then I realized every song I knew form them was on the same album. This was a rare album for me where the singles didn't land for me as well as the "unknowns" of the album. Fantastic
Few records have been considered a favorite of mine for as long as The Score.
Doesn't get much better
Golden days
i love this album, i used to listen to it when i was a child.. really good..
so ive gotta listen again, only heard the beginning but really cool from what I heard
Nostalgia hit for sure, but goddamn this is just a phenomenal record.
Who can argue with the combination of brilliant production, deft lyricism and Lauryn Hill. Endless repeatability, Ready Or Not one of my fav hip hop songs ever (and sample for one of the best D&B songs ever). It's gotta be 5
One of the best albums to exist.
yeah this ruled
loved it!! such a fun sound, will definitely be listening again
Great album
There’s a lot that’s great here. But Lauryn Hill’s voice is truly sublime. She is such a unique talent, that it’s a shame she didn’t do more. She could sing anything and make it better. It’s hard not to be greedy for a thicker catalog. It’s all good, but goddamn, Lauryn Hill.
First listen. Been on the list for quite a while, and I have of course listened to quite a few of the songs before. Impressed by how good the rest of the songs was as well!
Banger from cover to cover. One of my favorites
Big inspiration for tank and the bangs. IN the best of ways.
I think I liked this better than the Miseducation of Lauryn Hill !?!! This is such a good album
Absolute bangers all around. Little to no misses
Otro éxito monumental y merecido. A lomos de versiones como Ready or not o Killing me sofly , e incluso No woman no cry, marcaron la pauta de finales de siglo además de servir de trampolín hacia el fugaz estrellato a Laurynn Hill. Un disco tan esencial como disfrutable
Such a cool album. Killing Me Softly With His Song is simply incredible. But it's far from all this album has to offer. Ready or Not, Zealots, The Score, and Cowboy are also all pretty great. These lyrics are clever, deft, and fully loaded with samples and nods to other songs. All three rappers are great on this, and the backing tracks feel effortless. One of the best of its era.
Liebe dieses Album, Lauryn hill und alles Große Nostalgie
This is incredible. The Songs, the flows, and the skits are all amazing in their own right. Lauryn Hill is the obvious Superstar, but damn I did not know Wyclef and Pras had it like that!
it’s a five
Pre-listening thoughts: just now getting around to this I am slacking 😔 we’ve had a lot of mid recently reallyyy hoping this will be good Post/during listening thoughts: this is phenomenal bro. The lyricism is just brilliant. The instrumentals are filled with texture and movement. There are so many references to catch. Lauryn Hill is unreal. 9.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: yeah. Everyone who says “rap isn’t for me” please try this album I am begging Fav tracks: almost all of it Least fav tracks: the Chinese Restaurant skit
Iconic. Bloody love 90s rnb
Ready Or Not and Fu Gee La heard before but only through samples. Killing me softly is my fav.
Top ten hip hop albums of all time. 🙌🏾 All amazing rappers and the beats are gritty and soulful all at the same damn time. Not sure if I like this or miseducation better but they’re both perfect albums.
A favorite hip hop album of mine since the 90s. Great to listen to again after a few years.
An album known to me, including some of my favourite ever tracks. Can't remember the last time I did a listen through so I enjoyed this greatly.
Γαμάτο Και δεν τους ήξερα σαν συγκρότημα Μόνο κάποια τραγούδια
9/10
Never listened to the whole thing and loved it. Especially the interludes!
Very solid. Some bum tracks though so not quite 5 star.
Fantastic album. The production is stellar, the beats are great and the rapping is top-shelf. There are smart lyrics and a range of exciting flows on every song. A great rap album all-around. I still can't believe that Lauryn Hill has one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard AND she's also one of the best rappers of all time. She's stunning on this album throughout. I was struck by her breathless verse on "Manifest."
The sound of The Fugees is so strong- Hip Hop, R&B, some reggae and some jazz, with flowy rap verses and beautiful sung choruses; it's a great formula for making good tunes. This album is their strongest, with standout tracks like "Killing Me Softly With His Song", "Ready or Not", and "Fu-Gee-La". "Killing Me Softly With His Song" is so, so, so good. It's beautiful, and sad, and is such a tremendously catchy song that is propped up by such a powerful performance by Lauryn Hill. It's one of those songs that comes on and people have to stop what they're doing and hum or sing along. It's a "never skip" for me. I love / hate the sample of the classical guitar piece "Recuerdos de la Alhambra" on "Family Business". It really doesn't work; it's a (usually) crazy fast A minor 32nd note test of endurance- but here it's underneath a swing hip hop beat and they clash and I think in other contexts I would love how weird it is, but here it is just so "off". I actually stopped the song to see if I had left open a youtube tab with the song playing elsewhere, like if it was playing at the same time as this Fugees track. But nope- this is two pieces played together. One of my favorite aspects of their produced sound is the crackle and pops of a vinyl record underneath the instruments. There's simulators for that kind of thing these days to add some of that vinyl warmth into more modern sounding songs but when I hear it in tracks prior to the year 2000 or so it makes me think that it's a bit more authentic. Listening to this record 28 years after release, in 2024, I'm really in awe about the places that it is taking me. I'm on a trip while listening to this record (not a trip like I'm traveling, I mean that the album is taking me on a journey), and while I've mentioned that before on this list as many others in 1001 albums have had the same effect, it's just apparent while listening to this one that a lot of modern albums these days miss this kind of concept. They worry so much about singles and Spotify algorithms and TikTok virality. This was a reminder that these kinds of albums are still out there waiting to be heard. This album is really great at blending the starts and ends of tracks together. "Killing Me Softly..." actually starts at the end of the track before it, "Family Business", with a little tease of the primary melody. It's great for a straight listen-through. There's so much effort put into the listening experience on this album. Definite 5/5 for me.
This is, and I say this with love, such music nerd shit. A rap album that acts as a whirlwind tour through through Black American music from the 50’s onwards, with some Reggae influence thrown in for good measure, which is somehow still utterly convincing as a social document as well. It helps that The Fugees all clearly love and appreciate music as much as their audience does and so the interpolations, samples and yes, even straight covers of Robert Flack and Bob Marley don’t ever come across as biting, but as genuine appreciation for the musical influences they’re building on
Yes, yes, yes.
Fucking amazing.
I used to listen to this a bit when I was 15 so I’m a bit nostalgic with it. I used to think I was hipster listening to it, then I found it’s one of the best selling hip hop albums and one of the most streamed 90s hip hop albums. It’s got some great heavy hitters and a couple songs that sorta just move along but overall it’s a great, dark experience
I LOVE LAURYN HILL!!!!!!!!!!!!!
groundbreaking album in so many ways. Two of the three artists are unapproachable.
This album came out when I was 16. Listening to it sparks deep nostalgia. I can smell my first car and the Case Logic CD case I kept this disc in.
Erykah Badu steals the damn show. Amazing production. One of the most listenable hip hop albums from start to finish.
Adorei descobrir que eles são as vozes de clássicos dos cinemas e eu nem sabia! Muito bom.
Wonderful.
Fantastic. Her voice is so nice, and her rapping is top notch. Plus the other guys add a great flair to it. One of the best blends of rap and r&b I've heard
Really good hip hop album. Im definitely coming back to this. Favs: How many mics, Zealots, The Beast, and Cowboys.
Phenomenal from front to back. I had heard some singles before, but every song is truly great. Favorite Song: The Mask
This whole album makes me happy. 6/5
Amazing blend of musical styles and lyrics.
10/10
Favorite Track: Family Business
This is one of the pinnacles of hip hop. The possibly racist depiction of an Asian restaurant owner is unfortunate, but it's overshadowed by the brilliance of the lyrics throughout.
Just a real chill, classic-sounding 90s hip hop album. Most songs were pretty long, but I didn't even really notice. The flow was top notch and the skits were minimal (which is a plus for me personally). Very bumpable.
This album was everything when it came out. Listening now some of the lyrics are silly. Lauren Hill was clearly the star of that trio IMO.
Better than I remembered
Got three tracks in before I realized I was on the radio edit version. Got better after that.
Banging
Classic
An absolute classic album for people of my generation - if you're into this sort of music, and perhaps even if you aren't. It was one of the soundtrack albums of 1996, and beyond. I don't think there is one weak track on it. The vocals complement each other, and the music, perfectly. I listened to it one, then again, for a grand total of "two times"!
The production, the rhymes, the variation in styles between each group member; one of the greatest hip-hop albums I've ever heard. Idk how I went this long without actually giving this a proper listen.
Great album. Enjoyed it absolutely!
Favourite tracks: how many mics; fugela; killing me softly with his song; ready or not; no woman no cry
This is a one of a kind album. I’m not really into gangster rap, and this is one of those “anti-gangster rap” rap albums that I love.
This is a great album. There's plenty of variety on here and I was vibing along the whole time. The production is on point and Lauryn has so much talent.
The greatest hip-hop album of all time in my opinion. I remember being in middle school listening to this thing on repeat, over and over. Finally got to see the Fugees in concert last year.
I am even willing to overlook the stupid skit featuring racist Cookie Monster
literally seamlessly perfect
What a great hip-hop album. These songs were everywhere when I was a kid and they still hold up to this day. So many great samples are used throughout the album, I especially loved the Dove sample in The Score. Wyclef’s cover of No Woman No Cry is an all time favorite. Excellent production, excellent lyricism, excellent execution.
This was just so good. The vocals, the lyrics, the samples. Excellent.
The Score remains undefeated, almost 30 years later. It's astounding how much the sound of this album, released in 1996, would influence and straight up dictate what the underground rap scene would sound like for the next half of a decade. Wyclef and Pras are great on this album, of course, and act as a perfect compliment to the singular talent at the apex of her powers, Lauryn Hill. Hill is so good on this entire album that it makes you wonder how she's not wildly viewed as one of the greatest artists that has ever been produced (I guess some may think she is, though I'm not sure that enough people know as much about her as you'd hope). The late 90's underground hip-hop sound/vibe is really my favorite genre subcategory, so I'm always going to be drawn to this sort of an album, but this is a total one-of-one record, an All-Timer that should largely be considered one of the handful of albums that everyone should hear.
Excellent from start to finish
A certified classic
4 bangers and just no weaknesses here.
This album is great. I thought I hadn't heard it but I knew basically every song, and I even recognized a decent amount of the samples! Great rapping, great musicality, great jams all around
Svår att betygsätta neutralt då jag haft en svårt intim relation med den här skivan (den och Coolios Gangsta’s paradise var de första hip hop-skivor jag köpte som 13-åring). Har snurrat hundratals gånger på pojkrummet. Hursomhelst är den förstås inget annat än ett mästerverk under en era då hip hop var som absolut bäst. Att outrot är typ bästa låten på skivan, trots alla andra hits, säger allt.
It does not get much 'cooler', a classic
**In-depth Review of "The Score" by Fugees: Lyrics, Music, Production, Themes, and Influence** --- **Introduction** Released on February 13, 1996, *The Score* by Fugees is a landmark album in hip-hop, blending eclectic musical elements, political and social commentary, and masterful lyricism. It features the trio of Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill, and Pras Michel, who collectively crafted one of the most influential albums of the 1990s. From its innovative production to its socio-political themes, the album stands out as a defining work in both the hip-hop and broader music landscape. --- **Lyrics** The lyricism on *The Score* is complex and multi-layered, showcasing each member’s distinct style. Lauryn Hill, with her piercing, soulful delivery, often stands out for her poeticism and depth, while Wyclef Jean and Pras offer contrasting but complementary perspectives. - **Lauryn Hill**: Hill’s lyrical prowess is one of the album’s highlights. Her verses are introspective, often exploring issues of identity, gender, and social justice. In "Ready or Not," Hill seamlessly blends vulnerability with defiance, rapping, “I play my enemies like a game of chess / Where I rest no stress if you don't smoke sess.” Her lyricism is intellectual and emotive, employing metaphors and double entendres that demand close listening. - **Wyclef Jean**: Wyclef’s lyricism is more eccentric and unpredictable, often incorporating a mix of languages and regional dialects, reflecting his Haitian roots. His strength lies in his storytelling ability, as seen in tracks like "Zealots," where he weaves historical and cultural references into his verses. - **Pras Michel**: Although Pras is often regarded as the least technically skilled of the three, his contributions should not be understated. His verses are straightforward but grounded, often providing a solid foundation for the more flamboyant styles of Wyclef and Lauryn. **Themes** One of the most striking aspects of *The Score* is its exploration of a wide range of themes, from racial identity to political corruption and personal struggle. - **Social Commentary**: The Fugees use *The Score* to critique systemic oppression, police brutality, and the struggles of the Black experience in America. Tracks like "The Beast" and "Ready or Not" are steeped in a critique of institutionalized violence and racism. The trio speaks from a place of both personal experience and historical consciousness, highlighting the injustices faced by marginalized communities. - **Refugee Identity**: The Fugees’ name itself is a nod to the immigrant experience, and this theme is woven throughout the album. Wyclef, in particular, brings his Haitian background into the conversation, discussing the broader struggles of displacement and cultural alienation in tracks like "The Score" and "Family Business." The trio doesn’t shy away from addressing their outsider status in both American and global contexts, using their music as a platform to speak on behalf of the voiceless. - **Gender and Empowerment**: Lauryn Hill's presence adds a unique layer of feminist commentary to the album. Hill navigates a male-dominated industry with grace, often delivering some of the most poignant lines about self-empowerment. In songs like "Ready or Not," Hill flips the script on vulnerability, asserting her autonomy and strength amidst chaos. This feminist undercurrent is subtle but significant, as it gives *The Score* an additional dimension of empowerment, especially for women of color. **Music** Musically, *The Score* is a melting pot of influences that range from reggae to jazz, soul, and traditional hip-hop. The album’s sound is rich and textured, blending live instrumentation with sampled beats, creating a dynamic and expansive sonic landscape. - **Reggae and Caribbean Influence**: Tracks like "Fu-Gee-La" and "No Woman, No Cry" are deeply rooted in reggae traditions, paying homage to the Caribbean diaspora. The use of syncopated rhythms, dub-style production, and reggae-inspired melodies gives the album an international flavor that sets it apart from its contemporaries. Wyclef’s Haitian background clearly influences this sound, and the inclusion of Bob Marley's "No Woman, No Cry" as a cover track is both a nod to reggae's cultural impact and a recontextualization of its themes of struggle and resilience. - **Soul and R&B Elements**: Lauryn Hill’s vocals add a soulful, melodic element to the album. Her singing on tracks like "Killing Me Softly with His Song" and "Ready or Not" provides a stark contrast to the hard-hitting verses, offering moments of vulnerability and emotional depth. Hill’s vocal range and control allow her to infuse each track with a sense of authenticity and raw emotion, bridging the gap between hip-hop and R&B. - **Jazz and Live Instrumentation**: Jazz influences are peppered throughout the album, most notably in the horn sections and improvisational feel of the arrangements. The production often features live instrumentation, creating a warm, organic sound that complements the album's more electronic elements. This blend of live and sampled elements contributes to *The Score*'s timeless appeal. **Production** The production on *The Score* is handled primarily by Wyclef Jean and Jerry Duplessis, with contributions from the likes of Salaam Remi and Diamond D. The sound of the album is both gritty and polished, balancing lo-fi aesthetic choices with lush, layered instrumentation. - **Sampling**: One of the most prominent features of the album's production is its extensive use of sampling. The Fugees cleverly integrate samples from genres as varied as soul, jazz, and reggae. For example, *The Delfonics’* "Ready or Not Here I Come" is sampled for the chorus of "Ready or Not," while Roberta Flack’s "Killing Me Softly with His Song" is reimagined into a hip-hop anthem. These samples are not used gratuitously; instead, they are woven into the fabric of the music in a way that adds layers of meaning and nostalgia to the tracks. - **Innovation in Sound**: The album was ahead of its time in its approach to blending genres and sounds. The production fuses boom-bap beats with lush orchestrations, reggae rhythms, and jazz inflections, creating a soundscape that is eclectic but cohesive. Wyclef's guitar work and the use of live instruments give the album an organic quality that was rare in mid-90s hip-hop. Songs like "Zealots" and "The Mask" showcase a mix of minor key melodies, melancholic strings, and haunting samples, giving the album a dark, cinematic atmosphere. - **Polished vs. Raw**: One of the strengths of the production is its ability to oscillate between polished and raw aesthetics. Some tracks, like "Killing Me Softly," have a smoother, more refined sound, while others, such as "How Many Mics," maintain a gritty, unpolished feel that harkens back to hip-hop's underground roots. This juxtaposition adds texture and depth to the album, making it accessible to both mainstream audiences and hardcore hip-hop purists. **Influence and Legacy** *The Score* is undeniably one of the most influential hip-hop albums of the 1990s, and its legacy continues to resonate today. The album catapulted the Fugees into superstardom, with Lauryn Hill, in particular, going on to become one of the most respected and celebrated artists of her generation. - **Impact on Hip-Hop**: The album helped redefine the possibilities of what hip-hop could be. By blending multiple genres and emphasizing lyrical depth, the Fugees expanded the scope of the genre. *The Score* also set a precedent for politically conscious rap, influencing artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and even Kanye West in their fusion of social commentary and artistic experimentation. - **Commercial Success**: *The Score* was both a critical and commercial success, selling over 22 million copies worldwide. It demonstrated that hip-hop could achieve mass appeal without sacrificing artistic integrity. The crossover success of tracks like "Killing Me Softly" and "Ready or Not" helped to bridge the gap between mainstream and underground audiences, making the album a cultural touchstone of the era. - **Lauryn Hill’s Legacy**: While *The Score* marked the end of the Fugees as a group, it served as the launchpad for Lauryn Hill’s solo career. Her 1998 album, *The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill*, is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time, and its roots can be traced back to her work on *The Score*. Hill’s fusion of rap, soul, and reggae, coupled with her deeply personal lyricism, continues to influence artists across genres. **Pros and Cons of *The Score*** **Pros:** 1. **Genre Fusion**: *The Score* effortlessly blends genres like hip-hop, reggae, soul, and jazz, creating a unique, eclectic sound that appeals to a wide audience. 2. **Lyrical Depth**: The album features sharp, insightful lyricism, with each member bringing their own distinct voice to the table. Lauryn Hill’s poetic verses, in particular, elevate the album’s content. 3. **Production**: The use of live instrumentation and innovative sampling techniques makes the album sonically rich and layered. 4. **Cultural Relevance**: The album's exploration of race, identity, and social justice gives it a lasting cultural impact. 5. **Timeless Appeal**: More than two decades later, *The Score* still sounds fresh, thanks to its masterful production and genre-blurring approach. **Cons:** 1. **Pras’ Contribution**: While Pras is solid, his lyrical delivery and skill pale in comparison to Hill and Wyclef, leading to moments where his verses feel underwhelming. 2. **Inconsistent Pacing**: Some tracks, while excellent individually, disrupt the flow of the album, making it feel slightly uneven in parts. 3. **Over-reliance on Covers**: While "Killing Me Softly" is a standout track, the reliance on covers or heavy sampling can feel somewhat less original in comparison to the album’s original compositions. --- **Conclusion** *The Score* by Fugees is a masterclass in musical innovation, lyrical depth, and cultural commentary. It successfully blends various genres to create a sound that remains relevant decades after its release. While not without its minor flaws, the album’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, solidifying its place as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Its influence on future generations of artists, especially in its fusion of genres and its commitment to social justice, ensures that *The Score* will continue to be celebrated as a pivotal moment in music history.
Kicks ass no skips. Powerful in ways, other bands can only dream to be.
Very solid album, entertaining throughout and made me feel cool just for listening to it. Favorite songs were: Zealots How Many Mics 9/10
Excellent.
When the Fugees broke out, it seemed to come out of nowhere (though, in truth, they had been working behind the scenes for years), and the overwhelming success of The Score caught everyone by surprise—including, I suspect, the three members themselves. As a result, the album radiates bold energy and youthful confidence. At the time of its release, Wyclef was 26, Pras 23, and Lauryn Hill just 20. This enthusiasm translates into an album that feels both raw and assured. The trio doesn’t just showcase their lyrical abilities; they tackle deeper issues like systemic racism, police brutality, and social inequality—topics not always front and center in 90s hip-hop. Lauryn Hill’s ability to switch effortlessly between soulful singing and incisive rapping is particularly striking, while Wyclef’s genre-blending production pushed the boundaries of what hip-hop could sound like. The Score is packed with memorable hooks and instantly quotable lines. Covering two iconic tracks—“Killing Me Softly with His Song” and “No Woman, No Cry”—was a risky move, but the Fugees infused both with their distinct style, making them feel fresh and personal. However, the album’s real strength lies in the consistency of its original tracks, a rarity at a time when listeners couldn’t preview songs before buying the full CD. Tracks like “Ready or Not”, "Fu-Gee-La" and “How Many Mics” not only became 90s hip-hop staples but also highlighted the group’s tight lyrical interplay. With the benefit of hindsight, we now know this would be the Fugees' final release. While the individual members went on to varying degrees of solo success, it’s hard not to wonder what more they could have achieved together. Did I own this release? Yes Does this release belong on the list: Yes Would this release make my own list: Yes Will I be listening to it again: Yes
One of the best albums yet -
Spoiler: Yes. While \"The Score\" is in this here family's vinyl collection and I obviously know the album, I had not listened to it in, seriously, ages and expected to just merely 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 it, now and today, like 4 star like it but ultimately be somewhat bored. But nah. This is ace. Varied, cool, effortless, with a superb flow throughout its runtime. What a stunning contrast to yesterday's 50 Cent. Just great. Happy to have had this today.
This album came out a year or two before I started finding and listening to my own music and for whatever reason I never listened to this one cover to cover beyond the singles. I grew up knowing Wyclef and Lauren Hill more as solo artists. I don’t know hip hop well enough, but love 90s stuff and thought this was super fun. Love the Beast and the Score.
One of the greatest hip hop albums ever
Another all-time classic.
There are songs I love that sample this album and I had no idea
Открыл для себя эту крутую группу, слышал пару треков, но не знал что это они.
I cannot overstate how absolutely fantastic this album is. I haven’t listened in many, many years, but holy shit. Not only does it hold up, it is definitively on the Mount Rushmore of hip hop albums. The beats, the lyrics, the wordplay, the interplay between the MCs - It’s all flawless. I often complain that we don’t have half stars in this, and for good reason. Even some of the other 5 star albums I’ve rated don’t hold up to this masterpiece.
A fantastic album. Like Fleetwood Mac, the Fugees were a power group that delivered lyrically with amazing arrangements, but burned bright for only one album. One of the best albums of the 90’s. 5/5!
feels like the first time I’ve ever listened to this album! Everything seems so relevant and fresh, will need to put this in the rotation!
01) Red Intro - 8,0 02) How Many Mics - 8,5 03) Ready Or Not - 10,0 04) Zealots - 9,0 05) The Beast - 8,5 06) Fu-Gee-La - 10,0 07) Family Business - 8,5 08) Killing Me Softly With His Song - 10,0 09) The Score - 8,5 10) The Mask - 9,0 11) Cowboys - 8,5 12) No Woman, No Cry - 10,0 13) Manifest/Outro - 9,0 TOTAL: 9,04 (90/100) Current ranking: 26/265 Fugees were the first to show me that hip hop can be fun, have a melody and that I can actually like it. The singles from this album are all five stars, the rest is also not bad. Lauryn Hill has a beautiful voice, and her rap skills are second to none. Wyclef and Pras are also masters of their craft. This is definitely one of those albums that are ground breaking in their own genre.
5 star album! Groovy beats, catchy tunes, with fantastic production. I recently heard Lauren Hill from Miseducation, liked her here better than that one. Favorite track: Ready or not other picks: how many mics, killing me softly, fu gee la, cowboys, no women no cry
This album cover is one I’ve seen countless times since the ‘90s and early 2000s. Surprisingly, I never listened to it back then. During the early to mid 2000s, I was deeply immersed in hip hop, but this album somehow slipped through the cracks. It’s a shame because this is exactly the style and sound I would have gone crazy for. Their lyrics are incredibly smooth and catchy, and their vocal delivery is top-notch. The production is stellar, featuring darker atmospheric synths that add depth and dimension, coupled with excellent sampling. This album is a gem that I’m glad I finally discovered. Better late than never!
Really different than what I normally listen to. I feel like part of what makes it so special is that it has a clear narrative aim and manages to do exactly what it's trying to do. I feel like I need more than a day to sit with it and have a fully developed opinion, but definitely a super sharp and thoughtful album.
Easy 5 here. Great music, great lyricism and storytelling, great vocals. It was fun to hear so many familiar sounds as well — both from the songs this album is sampling and the songs that sample this album.
"ready or not", "killing me softly with his song", "no woman, no cry", "cowboys" e "mista mista". Essas são as faixas que mais gostei, as transições de uma música para outra são incríveis.
I really enjoyed this record. All three have a good flow, and together it works great. Hill especially is both a great singer and great rapper. It's got a laid back cool that I really like. However, there's SO MANY fecal puns. And they all take me out of the groove, because they don't fit at all. It's by far my biggest problem with the album.
This was soooo good. Every song is a banger wow
Unieke hip hop act hier, geleid door de Queen of Hip Hop, Ms. Lauryn Hill. Na de stoute tante Missy Elliott, is het nu tijd voor de koningin van het genre. Tuurlijk gooit de exoot Wyclef Jean een hoop van z'n ziel in dit werk, maar de skills van Lauryn, zowel als rapper en als zangeres, staat buiten kijf. Haar bars op de titelsong zijn echt dope, monumentaal nummer. Het album klinkt heerlijk, de beats kraken net genoeg, de flow laat je heupen swingen, de interludes brengen persoonlijkheid zonder die flow te doorbreken. Los van de grote jongens op deze plaat, 'Killing Me Softly', 'Ready or Not' en 'Fu-Gee-La', tikt het album ook gewoon een hoog niveau aan. Jazz/progressive hip hop dat best in één adem genoemd mag worden met werk als ''The Low End Theory'' en ''Black on Both Sides''. 9/10 Highlights: Ready or Not Fu-Gee-La The Score Cowboys
I don't generally listen to rap, but this was such a great album. Politically motivated, brilliant.
Good music build on the past and creates something new. This album does exactly that.
Another great album this week. "Ready Or Not" is years ahead of its time. Lauren Hill definitely steals the show here. "The Score" made her a star. The only complaint I would have is that the outros are a bit annoying. 5 stars for "The Score".
Classic. Own on vinyl
How Many Mics has such a funky gangsta feel - loved that song. Ready or not - who doesn't like that song? The restaurant skit was funny as fuck and led straight into a bomb ass song. This album is an absolute classic and a must-listen if you are a fan of 90's hip-hop. Easy 5.
Incredibly groovy and lyrically interesting. I think I'm in love with Lauryn Hill (her voice at the very least). Way ahead of its time from what I can tell, and one I really connected with. Plus I wrapped presents listening to this :))
Simply just a masterpiece of 90s hip hop.
I’m at a 5. I just thought that was really fun – lots of great verses, lots of great lyricism, and a very cool minimalist East Coast style of production that doesn’t get too bombastic, and allows for them to really get their messages and their vocals across. Even though Lauryn Hill is clearly the star here, both Wyclef Jean and Pras come out swinging on this album, and occasionally have moments where they really do outshine her. As a group, they really do bring the best out of each other, and it’s a shame that this is the last album they made as a trio. Obviously, some shit went down, but some bands have existed longer over worse disputes. I truly thought every track here had something to offer, and I don’t think any track really missed a beat. Just a super strong album from top to bottom, and certainly worthy of being on this list of 1,001 albums. If nothing else, it gave us that fabulous cover of Killing Me Softly, which is one of my favorite tracks ever. Pretty easy 5.
A very enjoyable album with a lot of variety in terms of instrumentals and sampling. An also serious message told through the lyrics in an ingenious way. Very good.
I really enjoyed this. Maybe due to the excellent percussion, piano, organ? Cool samples, raps that aren't about "tha gangsta lyfe"? Female vocals? A truly interesting mish mash of funky beats.
Classic hip hop. Wyclef produces solid beats and is entertaining on the mic, and Pras competently fills the role of Chris Bosh to Clef and Lauryn’s Wade and Lebron but Lauryn Hill is clearly the star. L is like if Whitney Houston could rap like Andre 3000. It’s a shame we only get one more album out of her, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone in Hip Hop history with more talent.
4.5 This was my first time listening to this. I should have done one of those Youtube reaction videos like when a black dude reviews a metal album. The album is great front to back and stood out as being unique from other hip-hop
Killing me softly made them famous but this album is so much more than that. The rhymes are gorgeous, the beats are beautiful, Lauryn hill is such a good rapper. The skits are funny and not overly long. The themes hit hard and reflective of the 90s (and probably still true today). Also, more bands should drop one world class album and leave it at that!
You know, I wasn't really looking forward to another group hip-hop album, mainly because a lot of the ones I've gotten are just kind of okay and don't have a ton of impact. However, after doing a quick bit of research, The Score by Fugees is an album that definitely makes a strong case for inclusion on the list. Apparently it's sold over 22 million copies. Wow! Also, even though I only vaguely recognized the album cover and name, as it turns out, I have in fact heard one of the songs from this album before, so it kind of passes the "I've heard of it test" that helps justify an album's inclusion. On top of that, the album itself supports the inclusion by being really (and I mean REALLY) good. This is one of the best hip hop albums I've heard yet. The beats are just phenomenal. It's very consistent in tone, and yet various songs just stick out. The group's three members all work together very well. Wycleaf Jean and Pras both do a great job with their verses and have very fun flows to them. However, while the guys are both great, I think the standout performance on this album absolutely belongs to Lauryn Hill. Her presence on the album turns this already good album into an amazing one. The features are also pretty good. The skits don't really impact the album in any negative way. The writing is fun at times, but also somewhat serious. The songs are all great. This is just an amazing album that absolutely warrants inclusion on a list like this. 5/5.
You could not live through the 1990s without knowing and appreciating this album. This, in my humble opinion, was one of the last great hip-hop albums of the Golden Era, succeeded maybe by and only by the Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. It was refined but street; it was rap but melodic; it was a near perfect album. Key songs for me: The Score and Killing Him Softly. Will listen to many more times.
This might be my favorite rap album of all time. Love the combo of Lauryn, Wyclef, and Pras. The reggae influence adds a nice dimension to the the rap, r&b, and hip hop. A couple of great covers. Some great originals especially “Ready or Not”. Maybe this was lightning in a bottle since we never got another Fugess album. I can not overstate how big this was in 1996 and remember seeing the Fugees at the Smokin Grooves concert where they were an opener but everyone was there to see them!
Classic album with some now ironic lyrics, considering the members turned out to be snitches and cry babies. Still slaps like few other things ever.
banging, one of the best albums of all time
This is probably the best rap album of all time. At least the best i've heard. The samples are perfect, the voices and the lyrics are perfect and the album got some deep vibe that really makes you trip and chill.
Very good actually. Lauryn Hill absolutely kills it. Amazing album.
Recuerdos de Alhambra as a beat is STRAIGHT FIRE
Fantastic instrumentation and lyrics, absolutely no wonder it became one of the most influential hip-hop albums.
LOVE IT
Hip hop masterpiece.
Wat een lekker album, veel hits, maar de rest is ook goed. Mooie melodieën, dikke raps, vette beats
Solid tunes.
I don't really like hip hop or rap and I'm very much a neophyte in those genres but this shit is honestly so so unbelievably good.
wish they would drop the stupid skits but otherwise a great album with so many bangers, its too bad Lauryn Hill hates white people cuz she's easily the greatest female rapper of all time in my opinion
Love this album.. wish Lauren Hill was still spitting. Can’t believe the longest album so far is a rap album haha. Funny
Expertly produced, all three members of the group know their role and weave their parts beautifully. Perfect.
I'm on a roll this weekend!!!
I’m extremely embarrassed to admit that I went into this album thinking that The Fugees were The Ronettes. I realised immediately how wrong I was, but what an idiot I am. This is three powerhouses of hip hop all together and it makes for a pretty amazing album. Lauryn Hill shows off her singing abilities as well as rapping, and her parts take the spotlight for me personally. Don’t get me wrong, Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel still perform fantastically, but hey that’s just how I feel. I like this album a lot.
Objective 5 no question.
Yes! This has already been in my top 5 albums forever, I listened to this album probably over 150 times throughout college, I probably owe some of my degree to The Fugees at this point. Gotta listen to the version of 'The Beast' with the full Chinese restaurant skit at the end, that one is wild. I used to get bored/tired when it got to 'The Mask' but now I think it's a fine song.
This is the best hip hop album I've heard on here
9.5/10
fucking one of THE GREATEST OF ALL TIME I WISH LAURYN HILL STILL MADE FUXN MUSIC ON GOD THIS BRINGS TEARZ TO MY EYEZ
ive never listened to whole album but this is fire lol
One of the best records from the 90s.
Love this album
Had. No. Idea. What a masterpiece with glimpses of so many styles and genres of music throughout. Incredible rapping prowess AND multifaceted singing voices with range and soul. So glad to learn of The Score.
Rap and r&b history founder. An album to always listen when we think its all lost on music industry.
Damn, what a fantastic album. An experience, for sure.
Easily one of the best hip-hop albums of all time. Loved it when it came out, love it now. "Ready or Not", "Zealots", "Fu-Gee-La", "The Score" and even "Killing me softly" which was never a favorite of mine, all are amazing songs. Even if you don't like the genre, give it a try. You will find some amazing samples in there.
It's pretty much perfect isn't it
Sick
Man this is so good! I’ve heard and always loved the hits of course, but am way too white to blast these beats and have never been much of a headphones guy. Very glad to have had the excuse to listen to the magic in full.
Classic. Love it
A true classic, all three members bounce off each other with an ease that elevates all of the performances. Lauryn's vocals are tops and the production is bold yet human and oh so soulful. Listened to: walking through Prospect Park. Favorite tracks: How Many Mics, Ready or Not
A great hip hop and rnb album with a lush organic and live sound.
Their best
Wow I’ve never listen to this album and know little about Fugees but this was awesome, a great mix of rap & R&B, love Lauryn Hill’s voice
Lauryn fucking Hill. Wyclef fucking Jean. Pras is also there. Legendary album. So.damn good.
Wonderful album ;-)
The second best thing Wyclef has made, behind his line in we are the world 2
Holy shit.
bruhhh. rakastan sketsikomediaa mun hiphop-albumeissa. tervetuloa putoukseen mailaman parhaaseen sketsihahmokilpailuun-.. yli miljoona (1000000) katsojaa saman aikaan... totinen lukema siinä. niin albumistsa. yks paremmista mitä on tullut genressä kuultua.. lopussa vähän lässähtää jollain paskalla bob marley coverilla. vituttaa sensoroitu versio yhtäkkäiä tulle fcSDCFKSKEJTRO ääni efekti aha tuossa oli jonkin sortin kirosana, kirottu sana... ja sanoi että paganismi on kuollut heh... väääinäääämöööinen..... vääääääinöööööllööööinennn.... kukaa pelkää väinömöistä..en minä... rakastava olento... fu-gee-la
KILLING ME SOFTLY WITH HIS SONGGGG
What a monster of a group. Every track is a banger. What really makes this album is the addition of the one and only Ms. Lauryn Hill. Not only a great singing voice but she has serious bars on here as well. The production also stood out to me. I love the dub/reggae influence, similar to what would appear on Lauryn Hill's solo record.
Very good. Interesting to hear the original songs that so many of today's modern artists sample from.
I'd never heard this album. Shame. It is from my era too, but, I grew up living a sheltered life. I found a new favorite and will rank this 5 stars. The outro almost lost this a star though.
Ily lauryn hill
Unable to listen to unbiased i LOVE this album
I absolutely love this album a staple of my childhood and life
The first few times I listened to this, I wasn't impressed. But somsthing changed here. The production is out of this world. Really gives the album an aura few others ever get close to. On top of that, the vocal performances are incredible especially on Killing Me Softly With His Song
I've heard some of the songs before but thought the album was likely overhyped at the time. I think I was wrong. Really enjoyed listening to this one. They've got a great sound and style.
Suuuper. Myślę że 5. Uwielbiam głosy wokalistów, muzyka jest MEGA
relisten. i love everything about this record, especially ms Lauryn Hill, i believe she's the reason why it stands out of the crowd so much even tho so many legendary hip-hop albums were released around the same time
Wow, consider me surprised by how good this album is. Wyclef Jean's influence in some of the tracks was amazingly good, and Lauryn Hill's flow is one of the best I have ever heard. Definitely listening to it again.
The weak points are easily overshadowed by the massive strengths of this album. It’s not perfect, and it trails off after Killing Me Softly, but it’s definitely essential. It might be the most essential hip-hop album ever.
Great
Masterpiece amongst masterpieces. If thosbAlbum is not in your top 5 rap albums of all times you should not have a saying about anything having to do with rap. To me its toss up between illmatic and this for 1st and 2nd place followed by PE’s fear of a black planet, slim shady album and eother black star or Eric B and Rakims paid in full. The Score changed the raps course and the vocal range and stylenplus the lyrical content delivered by Lauryn Hill helped put them in another planet. Too bad Wyclef and Lauryn were not mature adults and called it quits in the height of their fame. They were so good that all three went on solo careers and their debut albums were top of the chain with Miseducation, The Carnival and ghetto superstars. Simply too much talent in a small space like the beatles.
This is an almost perfect album, great to give this a listen on a lovely warm afternoon. It is a bit long, and I could do without the somewhat racist Chinese restaurant skit (and basically every skit ever), but this album is too important to quibble over a few imperfections. It was a great antidote to the gangsta and bling rap that was dominating at the time, and has aged pretty well. Great to see a female MC on the list too!
Easy 5, I already enjoyed the Fugees, but I'd never listened to the album in its entirety and I'm so glad I have. Old school rap absolutely does it for me, Miss Lauryn Hill is one of my favorites of all time, and I got a lot more appreciation for Wyclef in general in giving this a more thorough look. It comes down to the lyricism for me, they bring an energy to it that's unmatched.
What a ride of an album. So this is what all rappers aspire to be when they release dancehall singles. The hip-hop and reggae undertones are wonderful. And there is a big amount of songs that are straight classics. Loved the listen.
Amazing flow throughout, great features. The commentary after almost every song grew on me after a couple songs. I started to look forward to them like what’s next in the story. Exceeded my expectations. Favorite song: the mask but it was hard to pick. Snuck into the 5.
Amazing.