Lauryn Hill's experience at the Apollo Theater's Amateur Night in 1987

Lauryn Hill's experience at the Apollo Theater's Amateur Night in 1987 is a well-known story that highlights both the challenges and resilience of her early career. At just 13 years old, Hill performed at the iconic Apollo Theater, a venue famous for its unforgiving audience that doesn't hesitate to boo performers they don't enjoy.

Hill chose to sing "Who's Lovin' You" by Smokey Robinson, a song made famous by The Jackson 5. As she began her performance, the audience initially responded with boos. This reaction is not uncommon at the Apollo, where the crowd is known for being particularly critical, especially towards amateur performers. Despite the challenging start, Hill pressed on and eventually won the audience over with her soulful voice and determination. By the end of her performance, she received applause, marking a significant turning point.

This moment was pivotal in Hill's life, teaching her valuable lessons about perseverance and the harsh realities of the music industry. It is often cited as an early testament to her resilience and dedication to her craft, qualities that would later contribute to her success as a member of The Fugees and as a solo artist​