Singer-rapper Lauryn Hill pleaded guilty Friday in a New Jersey federal court to three-counts of failing to file federal income tax returns. The 37-year-old Grammy-winner failed to file her taxes between 2005 and 2007, though she earned more than $1.8 million in film and recording royalties. Each count carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. Hill, who is best known as a former member of the hip-hop group the Fugees, was released on $150,000 bail. U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp said her bail included being allowed to leave the country for music tours and an order that she undergo mental health counseling. The singer said little in court and left without giving a statement.
Hill started her solo career in 1998 with the debut of her album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.” The album, which won her five Grammy awards, featured hits like “Ex-Factor,” “Everything is Everything” and “Doo Wop (That Thing).”
