Former Fugees member Pras Michel has filed a federal lawsuit against Lauryn Hill, alleging fraud and breach of contract regarding their canceled 2023 tour.

Photo Credit: Lauryn Hill by Peter Tea / CC by 2.0

The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, claims Hill "grossly mismanaged" the tour's planning, marketing, and budgeting. Despite most arena shows being sold out in advance, Michel alleges he received no compensation due to Hill's control over the tour budget.

Key allegations in the lawsuit include:

• Hill took 40% of tour guarantees and profits "off the top," with the remaining 60% split between Hill, Pras, and Wyclef Jean
• Hill rejected a $5 million Coachella offer without consulting other members
• The tour was prematurely canceled in November, with Hill citing vocal strain
• Hill allegedly entered into a new agreement with Live Nation for additional shows without disclosing this to Michel
• Poor marketing and delayed deal closure led to disappointing ticket sales

Michel claims Hill exploited his financial situation, knowing he needed funds for legal fees related to his involvement in the IMDB financial scandal. The lawsuit also addresses Hill's "chronic tardiness" at performances, including a recent four-hour delay at a show in Nairobi, Kenya.

Hill has responded to the lawsuit, calling it "baseless" and "full of false claims and unwarranted attacks" in a statement to Variety. The tour's cancellation was attributed to an injury, with Hill stating that negative media coverage affected ticket sales.

The case highlights ongoing tensions within the former group and raises questions about tour management and artist relationships in the music industry.

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