It was hard to imagine this - back in the days when The Fugees were the best thing that ever happened to hip hop - but the life and career of Wyclef Jean really went into a different direction from what you would've expected.
Back then, he was the hottest producer to work with and brought some coolness to the likes of Carlos Santana, Whitney Houston and Shakira.
Throughout his career, his music has always had political and social messages, so it didn't take long for him to want to have more influence to help improve the world. His hopes to give something back to his native land, Haiti, took shape in his failed attempt to become the country's president. Later, he raised money to help the country back on its feet after a major earthquake hit.
His music took a back seat to this for several years, until, in 2012, there were many rumors about the mismanagement of his charity and he even got accused of using most of the money for his own benefit.
Since, he's tried to return to music a few times, but has struggled. Only his collaborations with Avicii have been visible to the outside. Announced albums would never see the light of day, but this year might turn everything around.
After doing a set at the popular SXSW event, earlier this month, Wyclef Jean has finally released a new single.
In "My Girl", he announces his own return, referring to himself as the 'Carnival Man', which is an obvious reference to his first solo debut, "The Carnival", in 1997.
The song brings together his reggae, hip hop and R&B influences, and altogether, is a sweet love song. Though not as strong as his music was, back in 1997. However, it would be good to see him come back.
