Lauryn Hill is a singer, rapper, songwriter, actress, and record producer that was born on May 26, 1975 in East Orange, New Jersey. Formerly, she was known as a member in the Fugees, a popular hip hop group back in the 1990s. She went on to write and produce her own albums like "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" and, my favorite, "MTV Unplugged No. 2.0: Lauryn Hill."
Here are five reasons why I feel like every young adult, male or female, should listen to her "Unplugged" album.
1. The album is real.
When you listen to the album, it is like hearing Hill in her final form. Someone who is aware, and vigilant about the life around her. Her eyes have been opened and she has been released from such a close-minded state of thinking. She is not like an artist giving a performance, but more like a regular everyday human being just sharing what is on her heart and mind. There are moments where she makes mistakes. At one point on the album she starts to lose her voice, but she keeps going because she knows that it is just another part of her human self. Nothing or no one can be perfect so she should stop trying to strive for the unattainable and accept who she is imperfections and all.
2. The interludes.
In between songs she has interludes that are kind of take a break and tell a story or a testimony. Each story holds a teaching moment, or is just some comic relief before she gets into the next song. The interludes are very personable, and they allow you to get to know her as a woman more. She speaks mostly about how people should live their lives based on what makes them happy, and not based on the happiness of others and what others think. Even her art is now based on what pleases her, and not what solely pleases the crowd. Her work is supposed to be something that makes her happy while also making others happy.
3. Builds confidence.
This album builds confidence in your flaws. You are not the only human with human-like tendencies. Sometimes people need to see the mess behind the closed doors to know that things in your life can get messy, but you are still alive through it all. If a person feels that everyday they can come out perfect without one mistake then that is a false sense of self and reality. People, especially young adults, have to learn to grow and work around their flaws. They also have to be less afraid of others seeing them. People will always be watching your every move, but that is okay because the more you are okay with your flaws the less people tend to notice them.
4. Religious setting.
Some of the songs touch on the unconditional love she receives from God. He is the only one people should look to in a time of fear, doubt or shame. God promotes a life that is free and open without any barriers weighing down on your conscience. Sins are meant to be confessed, and not sheltered in shame. Once you can freely admit to things that have happened, or that you have done then your soul will feel more free and clean. Many are too embarrassed to admit to some of the things they have been involved with and seen, but once a person is able to open up they will feel lighter and closer to God. He loves without judgement and continues to love you despite all that you have done, and when you are looking for reassurance and clarity in your life, you should look to him.
5. Promotes independence.
People have to realize the world they live in, and the part they play. Remember that your life is not your own and everything you are doing is for the most high. Stop acting like you know everything, be open to learn new things, and cut yourself off from material things and other people sometimes. You can never get right within yourself if there is always someone around holding you down with criticisms and opinions. A person has to find peace of mind in order to move through life freely. Focus on yourself, your studies and things that will make you a better you. Push out the toxic distractions.
Lauryn Hill's "MTV Unplugged" album really holds a lot of key knowledge and tools for life. It is essential to a young adult's life because there are so many things to get lost in and distracted by in this generation. I recommend this album as some guidance for many young adults.