US Ambassador compares Kazakh singer Yenlik to Lauryn Hill

Kazakh hip-hop artist Yenlik met with Julie Stufft, the US Ambassador to Kazakhstan. The diplomat said the singer’s work reminded her of legendary American artist Lauryn Hill. During their conversation, they discussed music, favourite performers and the possibility of Yenlik touring the United States, El.kz reports.

The meeting took place in a traditional Kazakh yurt. The singer and the ambassador discussed cultural ties between the two countries and recorded a joint video, which was subsequently published on Instagram.

Julie Stufft said she was impressed by the Kazakh artist’s work, noting similarities to the music of one of the most prominent figures in American hip-hop.

“I have to tell you, when I saw your videos, I saw Lauryn Hill in them,” the ambassador said.

The diplomat explained that she grew up in the United States in the 1990s, when R&B and hip-hop were particularly popular. She recalled the work of Lauryn Hill and Missy Elliott, both of whom became iconic figures in the American music scene.

Yenlik agreed with the ambassador’s high regard for Lauryn Hill, describing her as one of the most influential performers in the history of hip-hop.

During the conversation, the ambassador also asked about the Kazakh artist’s musical preferences. Yenlik said that Beyoncé was among her favourite American stars. She named “Crazy in Love” and “I Was Here” among her favourite songs.

International performances were another topic of discussion. Julie Stufft asked whether Yenlik was considering returning to the United States for further performances. The singer said she was considering the possibility, although no specific concert dates have been announced.