Introduction

Prakazrel Michel, better known as Pras, is a Grammy Award-winning hip-hop artist and former Fugees member. He has worked with various multi-platinum acts, including Mya, Ne-Yo, Wyclef Jean, and Lauryn Hill. Pras is known for his socially conscious lyrics and his political activism.

Early Life

Pras was born in Haiti in 1972. His family moved to New Jersey when he was 4 years old. At a young age, Pras was exposed to the sounds of rap music and soon developed an interest in it. He collaborated with some local rappers in high school, which eventually led to the formation of the Fugees.

Career

In 1994, the Fugees released their debut album Blunted on Reality, which received mixed reviews. However, their follow up album The Score was a huge success, selling over 18 million copies worldwide and earning the group two Grammy Awards. Following their success, Pras released his debut solo album Ghetto Supastar in 1998. The lead single “Ghetto Supastar” featured Mya and Ol’ Dirty Bastard and peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In 2000, Pras released his second album Grass Roots to little commercial success. In 2004, he released his third album Win Lose or Draw but it failed to gain any traction.

Activism

Pras is an active political activist. He supported US presidential candidate Barack Obama in 2008 and 2012. He also founded a non-profit organization called Block by Block that works towards providing resources for underserved communities across the world.

Conclusion

Pras is a highly successful hip-hop artist who has made a lasting impact on rap music with his socially conscious lyrics and political activism. He has worked with some of the biggest names in music and continues to be an influential force in the rap game.