Pras

Pras was born on October 19th, 1972

Full Name: Prakazrel Samuel Michel

Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Profession: Rapper, songwriter, producer, actor

Group: The Fugees

Hit Song: Ghetto Supastar

Film: Turn It Up

Solo Album: Ghetto Supastar

A rapper, songwriter, and actor who rose to fame in the 1990s with hits like "Ghetto Supastar" and "Turn It Up", known for his energetic flow and catchy hooks.

Written by:

Victor Malone

Pras: The Fugees Icon and Rapper Behind "Ghetto Supastar"

A Hip-Hop Legacy Born from the Streets of New Jersey

Pras, born Prakazrel Samuel Michel on October 19, 1972, is an American rapper, singer, and record producer known for his groundbreaking work as a member of the iconic hip-hop group Fugees. Alongside Wyclef Jean and Lauryn Hill, Pras formed the trio in 1990, which would go on to revolutionize the music industry with their unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and reggae.

Avenues to Success

As a solo artist, Pras signed with Columbia Records in 1996 and released his debut single "Avenues" in 1997, featuring KyMani Marley and Refugee Camp AllStars. The song peaked at No. 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Pras' successful entry into the solo scene. His subsequent single, "Ghetto Supastar (That Is What You Are)," featuring Ol' Dirty Bastard and Mýa, was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1998. The song's success was bolstered by its feature in the Warren Beatty film Bulworth, further solidifying Pras' reputation as a versatile artist.

Cross-Genre Collaborations and Accolades

Pras' innovative approach to music led to collaborations with rock band Queen on the 1998 remix of "Another One Bites the Dust," which reached the top five on the UK Singles Chart. This fusion of genres exemplified Pras' willingness to push boundaries and defy conventions. His work on the web series The Bay earned him a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Digital Daytime Drama Series in 2017.

Personal Milestones and Philanthropy

Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Irvington, New Jersey, Pras is of Haitian-American descent. He cultivated an early interest in music, which led him to meet Lauryn Hill at Columbia High School in Maplewood, New Jersey. Pras introduced Hill to Wyclef Jean, and the trio began rehearsing under the guidance of Kool and the Gang's producer, Ronald Khalis Bell. This marked the beginning of Pras' journey as a musician.

Controversies and Legal Issues

In 2019, Pras faced legal issues when he was charged with criminal conspiracy for alleged illegal donations to President Barack Obama's 2012 presidential reelection campaign and lobbying the Trump administration to deter investigations into the 1MDB scandal involving fugitive Malaysian businessman Jho Low. On April 26, 2023, Pras was found guilty of 10 criminal counts in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

Legacy and Impact

Throughout his career, Pras has made significant contributions to hip-hop, pushing the genre's boundaries and inspiring a new generation of artists. His work with the Fugees and as a solo artist has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Despite facing legal challenges, Pras' legacy as a pioneer of hip-hop remains unwavering.

Timeline

1972

Born in New Jersey

Pras was born on October 19, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey. He would go on to become a successful rapper and actor.

1994

Fugees Formed

Pras co-founded the hip-hop group Fugees with Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean, releasing their debut album Blunted on Reality.

1996

The Score Released

Fugees released their critically acclaimed album The Score, featuring hits like Killing Me Softly and Ready or Not.

1997

Ghetto Supastar Soundtrack

Pras starred in the film Ghetto Supastar, also contributing to the soundtrack with the hit single Ghetto Supastar (That Is What You Are).

2007

Skid Row Marathon

Pras participated in the Skid Row Marathon, a documentary about homeless people training for a marathon.

Pras Quiz

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FAQ

What is Pras most famous song?

Pras is probably best known for his hit single Ghetto Supastar (That Is What You Are), which was featured on the soundtrack of the 1998 film Bulworth.

What is Pras role in the Fugees?

Pras was a member of the hip-hop group the Fugees, alongside Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean. He was an integral part of the groups success and co-wrote many of their hit songs.

What is Pras solo music style?

Pras solo music is a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and reggae. He has released several albums, including Ghetto Supastar and Win, Lose or Draw.

Has Pras won any awards?

Pras has won several awards, including multiple Grammy Awards for his work with the Fugees. He has also been nominated for solo work and has won several other music awards.

What has Pras been up to recently?

In recent years, Pras has been involved in various music projects, including collaborations with other artists and working on new solo material. He has also been involved in film and television projects, including producing and acting in several films.

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