Doo Wop (That Thing)

Lauryn Hill stepped out from her group, the Fugees, with a solo debut that felt less like an introduction and more like a takeover. Released in August 1998 as the lead single from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, the track blended neo-soul warmth with sharp hip-hop beats to deliver a message about self-respect and cultural values. Hill wrote and produced the song entirely on her own, crafting a sound that bridged generations while speaking directly to young people navigating modern relationships.

Upon its release, the song immediately claimed the top spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks. This achievement marked Hill's first and only number-one single as a lead artist in the United States. The track also found success internationally, reaching the top ten in several countries including the United Kingdom where it peaked at number five. In the US, the Recording Industry Association of America certified the single Platinum for sales exceeding one million copies.

The music video directed by Francis Lawrence captured Hill performing in various New York City settings, including a subway station and street corners. The visual narrative emphasized Hill's commanding presence and the song's themes of community and youth culture. As of recent counts, the official music video has accumulated hundreds of millions of views across YouTube, solidifying its status as a classic. [edit]