Lauryn Hill has set the record straight after facing criticism from some online users who assumed she was late to her recent performance at Essence Fest.
On Tuesday, July 8, the iconic singer addressed the matter via an Instagram text post shared with her 1.4 million followers. In the statement, Hill expressed gratitude to the organizers of Essence for “clarifying that the delays” were not her responsibility. She emphasized her deep involvement in every detail of her performances, explaining that her hands-on approach is to preserve the “integrity” of her “message” and ensure “the quality” of her craft.
Lauryn Hill confronted the rumors directly, stating,
“…There seems to be a misconception out there that I am somewhere on the Rivera with my feet up… showing up to concerts whenever because I’m too important to care. That’s nonsense,” she said. She also noted, “…this is not the first time production delays have delayed my performances. This IS however the first time a promoter has acknowleged the slip up on their end (thank you Essence!) and this is the last time I’ll allow production challenges to look like the fault is mine alone, when they aren’t.”
Addressing critics who may have lost patience, Hill was clear:
“I’m okay with that because it’s not your grace that sustains me,” she added.
She also encouraged the media to verify information before publishing, and wrapped up her message by expressing appreciation to fans who stayed to enjoy her set “despite the late start.”
Hill’s response followed a statement issued by Essence on Monday, July 7. The organizers took to Instagram to clear up any confusion surrounding Hill’s timing. They affirmed that the singer “arrived on schedule, stepped on that stage, and delivered the kind of performance only a legend can.”
Essence added,
“The delay? Not hers. We will take that. The moment? One for the books. The legacy? Still unmatched. Put some respect on her name. Keep the takes, but keep her out of them. All love and deep profound admiration for Ms. Lauryn Hill.”
With both Lauryn Hill and Essence offering clarity, it’s now clear that the delay had nothing to do with the artist herself — and everything to do with production setbacks beyond her control.
