Lauryn Hill recently shared why the United States leg of her tour with the Fugees, The Celebration Continues: The Miseducation Anniversary Tour, was cancelled just days before it was to begin on August 9.
Ms Hill, in a statement on Instagram, explained that the decision to cancel the North American tour dates was difficult but necessary.
She mentioned that she had suffered an injury last year, likely a vocal strain, which led to previous show cancellations.
This, coupled with sensationalised media coverage, seems to have affected ticket sales for the U.S. portion of the tour.
“Last year, I faced an injury that necessitated the rescheduling of some of my shows,” Hill went on, possibly referring to the vocal strain that caused last year’s show cancellations, and then pointed to “sensationalism and clickbait headlines” about this for having “seemingly created a narrative that has affected ticket sales for the North American portion of the tour.”
“The trust and faith I have in my intentions and my commitment to my art seem to have been overshadowed by this unfortunate portrayal,” the “Doo Wop (That Thing)” singer said in a joint statement with the Fugees on Instagram on Wednesday, August 7.
Hill expressed disappointment in the development, stating that performing for her fans is a deeply meaningful experience for her, and she is saddened by the cancellation.
She assured fans that she remains committed to her art and is grateful for their support, promising that she fought hard to make the performances happen.
“Performing for my fans, is a profound exchange of energy and emotion that excites me every time. Every show is a piece of my expression and testament to our connection and shared love for music. I can assure you that no one is more disappointed about not being able to perform than I am.”
“Know that I am not only grateful for those who appreciate and support my art, but that I FIGHT and push through all kinds of resistance to put together experiences that mean something for all of us,” she continued. “I love being able to bring these performances to you!” She said.
Despite the U.S. cancellations, Hill confirmed that the tour dates in the United Kingdom and Europe will proceed as planned, and she and the Fugees are looking forward to those shows.
For U.S. fans, Lauryn Hill mentioned that once the unforeseen circumstances are resolved, they plan to return “in full force.”
Refunds for the cancelled U.S. shows are being issued by Live Nation.