I’ve always been more partial to Lauryn’s singing more than her rapping. That’s not to say she’s doesn’t defecate on the microphone, but hearing her harmonize always connected with me more. She isn’t a belting vocalist like Jennifer Hudson, who – if I can just sidebar for a sec – is responsible for having the most annoying commercials out right now. They’ve got like three of those joints in rotation, each one more SUPER annoying than the other. Totally makes me want to Van Gogh myself if I could.
But, back to Lauryn.
Her singing isn’t perfect and it’s exactly why it’s so appealing. The little vulnerabilities in Ms. Hill’s vocals is what’s responsible for the soulful passion that makes you believe every word coming out of her mouth. And one of the many songs that showcase this is her take on Frankie Valli’s often covered 1967 classic. Lauryn’s Hip-Hop-flavored rendition has always been a personal favorite of mine due to the seemingly effortless singing that convey emotions many of today’s R&B singers lack.
It has been nearly 15 years since Miseducation… and yet songs like this one, “Ex-Factor,” “Tell Him,” etc. never get old. Guess that’s what they call “a classic.”
Lauryn Hill – “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You”