Lauryn Hill’s iconic debut album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, has been named the greatest record ever by Apple Music. On Tuesday evening, May 21, Hill attended an intimate dinner in New York City, where she was informed of the album’s top ranking on Apple Music’s 100 Best Albums list. The event, hosted by Ebro Darden, was a celebration of Hill’s groundbreaking work and its lasting impact.
Lauryn Hill’s Historic Achievement
During the dinner, Hill expressed her gratitude upon hearing the news. “This is my award, but it’s a rich, deep narrative, and involves so many people, and so much sacrifice, and so much time, and so much collective love,” Hill said. Joined by her mother, Hill emphasized that the recognition was a collective celebration.
Ebro Darden, who led a discussion on the Top 10 albums, highlighted the album’s profound influence. “I think it’s important that you know that we understand what you gave to all of us,” he told Hill. “To music, to Hip-Hop, to culture, to Black people, it’s very important. And for people to vote for this just shows it was worth it ’cause you touched people in a real way.”
An Enduring Legacy
Released in 1998, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. It became the first album by a rap artist to win the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1999. Featuring hit singles like “Doo Wop (That Thing),” “Ex-Factor,” and “Everything Is Everything,” the album has sold over 20 million copies worldwide. In 2015, it was added to the Library of Congress, cementing its place in music history.
Apple Music’s 100 Best Albums list was compiled by industry experts, artists, songwriters, and producers. The list ranked The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill ahead of albums by Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Stevie Wonder, Frank Ocean, Prince, The Beatles, and Michael Jackson.
“This list isn’t a popularity contest,” Darden explained. “We challenged everyone to not vote based on your favorites. You’re invited into the panel because you have music knowledge beyond what you listen to when you’re on the elliptical machine.”
The selection process involved both internal Apple Music staff and a select group of external voters. Votes were weighted according to an album’s ranking, ensuring a fair and comprehensive evaluation. The album’s top position on this list underscores its enduring relevance and influence in the music industry.