Erykah Badu, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, is a trailblazing artist who brought a unique voice to the neo-soul genre. Raised in a creative household, Badu grew up immersed in the arts and later attended Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Her brief college years at Grambling State University gave way to a full-time career in music. Adopting the name Erykah Badu to mark her spiritual journey, she began cultivating a style that fused hip-hop, soul, jazz, and R&B with deeply introspective and socially aware lyrics. Her big break came when she was discovered by producer Kedar Massenburg, who signed her to Universal Records in the mid-1990s. In 1997, she released her debut album, Baduizm, which earned her international acclaim, including Grammy Awards and comparisons to Billie Holiday. Songs like “On & On” showcased her captivating vocal style, while lyrics delved into themes of spirituality, self-empowerment, and resilience. Baduizm became a defining work of neo-soul, solidifying Badu as one of the genre's leading figures alongside D'Angelo and Maxwell. Following Baduizm, she released a live album that included the iconic song “Tyrone,” a playful and pointed critique of relationship dynamics that has since become a signature track. At the time, Badu was in a relationship with rapper Andre 3000 of OutKast, and they share a son, Seven Sirius Benjamin, born in 1997. Though their relationship was short-lived, their connection left a lasting mark on both artists' music, with Andre paying homage to Badu in OutKast’s lyrics and Badu drawing on her experiences in later albums. In 2000, Badu released Mama’s Gun, a powerful, introspective album that delved into themes of identity, emotional baggage, and self-discovery. Collaborating with talents like Questlove of The Roots and jazz musician Roy Hargrove, Mama’s Gun showed Badu’s ability to push boundaries. The track “Bag Lady” offered a metaphorical take on releasing burdens, and “Didn’t Cha Know” conveyed her journey of self-awareness. This album remains one of the cornerstones of her discography, affirming her role as an innovator in soul music. Badu's next project, Worldwide Underground (2003), experimented with a looser, jam-session style and highlighted her love for freestyle and genre-blending. This album included “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop),” a Grammy-winning collaboration with Common that celebrated hip-hop’s influence on their work. During this period, Badu became known for her eclectic and Afrocentric fashion, setting trends and making bold aesthetic statements that complemented her musical identity. Throughout her career, Badu has also been an outspoken activist, advocating for racial justice, poverty alleviation, and gender equality. Her lyrics often subtly address these issues, and her philanthropic work has been extensive, particularly through her nonprofit organization B.L.I.N.D. (Beautiful Love Incorporated Non-Profit Development), which supports youth and arts programs in her hometown of Dallas. She is also a devoted mother to her three children—Seven, Puma Sabti Curry (daughter with rapper The D.O.C.), and Mars Merkaba Thedford (daughter with Jay Electronica)—and maintains close ties to her community. In 2008, Badu released New Amerykah Part One (4th World War), an ambitious album that addressed social and political issues affecting Black Americans, with tracks like “The Healer” and “Soldier” exploring topics from spiritual resilience to systemic injustice. This album marked a sonic shift towards funk and hip-hop with a more experimental edge, and while it received mixed reviews, it underscored Badu’s commitment to addressing societal challenges. She followed up with New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) in 2010, which focused more on themes of love and introspection. The album included “Window Seat,” whose video sparked controversy for its bold visual statement on vulnerability and liberation; she famously disrobed while walking through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, leading to fines but also sparking widespread discussion on body autonomy and expression. As she progressed through the 2010s, Badu continued to evolve and influence a younger generation of musicians. She collaborated with artists such as Flying Lotus and Tyler, The Creator, and mentored emerging voices like Janelle Monáe. Her ongoing relevance in the music industry reflects her adaptability and openness to new sounds and styles. In 2015, she released the mixtape But You Caint Use My Phone, an exploration of themes around digital disconnection and reconnection, blending her soulful style with trap influences and contemporary beats. Her collaboration with Andre 3000 on “Hello” brought fans full circle, showing how both artists had grown and evolved since their early relationship. Spirituality has always been central to Badu’s life, and over the years, she has developed an interest in healing practices, including becoming a certified doula. Her roles as a healer and spiritual guide extend beyond music; she frequently advocates for mindfulness and self-care, and many fans see her as a cultural and spiritual icon. In her live performances, she exudes a presence that feels both grounded and ethereal, often sharing messages of love, self-reflection, and empowerment. Her public persona blurs the line between artist and shaman, with a growing community looking to her for both musical and personal guidance. In recent years, Badu has also ventured into entrepreneurship, launching Badu World Market, an online store that reflects her lifestyle, with products like incense, herbal blends, and Afrocentric clothing. She has connected with fans during the COVID-19 pandemic through live-streamed quarantine concerts, demonstrating her enduring ability to adapt and maintain relevance even in challenging times. Badu's contributions to music, culture, and social awareness extend far beyond the neo-soul genre. She is widely regarded as the “Godmother of Neo-Soul” for her role in shaping the genre and inspiring countless artists across R&B, hip-hop, and alternative music scenes. Her authentic approach and willingness to address complex themes have influenced contemporary artists like Solange, H.E.R., and Janelle Monáe, who consider her a trailblazer and mentor. Her exploration of identity, spirituality, and social consciousness continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Today, Erykah Badu is celebrated not only as a musician but also as a cultural force. Her deep sense of purpose, dedication to her community, and commitment to artistic integrity have made her a beloved and respected figure. Her legacy in music and activism continues to inspire, and as she evolves, Badu remains an embodiment of the power of creativity, resilience, and authentic self-expression. Her journey has been one of exploration, challenging conventions, and embracing the complexity of human experience. As she moves forward, her impact on music and society is undeniable, marking her as one of the most influential and enduring figures in modern music. This has been a Quiet Please production. Head over to Quiet Please dot A I to “Hear What Matters”
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Erykah Badu, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, is a trailblazing artist who brought a unique voice to the neo-soul genre. Raised in a creative household, Badu grew up immersed in the arts and later attended Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Her brief college years at Grambling State University gave way to a full-time career in music. Adopting the name Erykah Badu to mark her spiritual journey, she began cultivating a style that fused hip-hop, soul, jazz, and R&B with deeply introspective and socially aware lyrics. Her big break came when she was discovered by producer Kedar Massenburg, who signed her to Universal Records in the mid-1990s. In 1997, she released her debut album, Baduizm, which earned her international acclaim, including Grammy Awards and comparisons to Billie Holiday. Songs like “On & On” showcased her captivating vocal style, while lyrics delved into themes of spirituality, self-empowerment, and resilience. Baduizm became a defining work of neo-soul, solidifying Badu as one of the genre's leading figures alongside D'Angelo and Maxwell. Following Baduizm, she released a live album that included the iconic song “Tyrone,” a playful and pointed critique of relationship dynamics that has since become a signature track. At the time, Badu was in a relationship with rapper Andre 3000 of OutKast, and they share a son, Seven Sirius Benjamin, born in 1997. Though their relationship was short-lived, their connection left a lasting mark on both artists' music, with Andre paying homage to Badu in OutKast’s lyrics and Badu drawing on her experiences in later albums. In 2000, Badu released Mama’s Gun, a powerful, introspective album that delved into themes of identity, emotional baggage, and self-discovery. Collaborating with talents like Questlove of The Roots and jazz musician Roy Hargrove, Mama’s Gun showed Badu’s ability to push boundaries. The track “Bag Lady” offered a metaphorical take on releasing burdens, and “Didn’t Cha Know” conveyed her journey of self-awareness. This album remains one of the cornerstones of her discography, affirming her role as an innovator in soul music. Badu's next project, Worldwide Underground (2003), experimented with a looser, jam-session style and highlighted her love for freestyle and genre-blending. This album included “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop),” a Grammy-winning collaboration with Common that celebrated hip-hop’s influence on their work. During this period, Badu became known for her eclectic and Afrocentric fashion, setting trends and making bold aesthetic statements that complemented her musical identity. Throughout her career, Badu has also been an outspoken activist, advocating for racial justice, poverty alleviation, and gender equality. Her lyrics often subtly address these issues, and her philanthropic work has been extensive, particularly through her nonprofit organization B.L.I.N.D. (Beautiful Love Incorporated Non-Profit Development), which supports youth and arts programs in her hometown of Dallas. She is also a devoted mother to her three children—Seven, Puma Sabti Curry (daughter with rapper The D.O.C.), and Mars Merkaba Thedford (daughter with Jay Electronica)—and maintains close ties to her community. In 2008, Badu released New Amerykah Part One (4th World War), an ambitious album that addressed social and political issues affecting Black Americans, with tracks like “The Healer” and “Soldier” exploring topics from spiritual resilience to systemic injustice. This album marked a sonic shift towards funk and hip-hop with a more experimental edge, and while it received mixed reviews, it underscored Badu’s commitment to addressing societal challenges. She followed up with New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) in 2010, which focused more on themes of love and introspection. The album included “Window Seat,” whose video sparked controversy for its bold visual statement on vulnerability and liberation; she famously disrobed while walking through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, leading to fines but also sparking widespread discussion on body autonomy and expression. As she progressed through the 2010s, Badu continued to evolve and influence a younger generation of musicians. She collaborated with artists such as Flying Lotus and Tyler, The Creator, and mentored emerging voices like Janelle Monáe. Her ongoing relevance in the music industry reflects her adaptability and openness to new sounds and styles. In 2015, she released the mixtape But You Caint Use My Phone, an exploration of themes around digital disconnection and reconnection, blending her soulful style with trap influences and contemporary beats. Her collaboration with Andre 3000 on “Hello” brought fans full circle, showing how both artists had grown and evolved since their early relationship. Spirituality has always been central to Badu’s life, and over the years, she has developed an interest in healing practices, including becoming a certified doula. Her roles as a healer and spiritual guide extend beyond music; she frequently advocates for mindfulness and self-care, and many fans see her as a cultural and spiritual icon. In her live performances, she exudes a presence that feels both grounded and ethereal, often sharing messages of love, self-reflection, and empowerment. Her public persona blurs the line between artist and shaman, with a growing community looking to her for both musical and personal guidance. In recent years, Badu has also ventured into entrepreneurship, launching Badu World Market, an online store that reflects her lifestyle, with products like incense, herbal blends, and Afrocentric clothing. She has connected with fans during the COVID-19 pandemic through live-streamed quarantine concerts, demonstrating her enduring ability to adapt and maintain relevance even in challenging times. Badu's contributions to music, culture, and social awareness extend far beyond the neo-soul genre. She is widely regarded as the “Godmother of Neo-Soul” for her role in shaping the genre and inspiring countless artists across R&B, hip-hop, and alternative music scenes. Her authentic approach and willingness to address complex themes have influenced contemporary artists like Solange, H.E.R., and Janelle Monáe, who consider her a trailblazer and mentor. Her exploration of identity, spirituality, and social consciousness continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Today, Erykah Badu is celebrated not only as a musician but also as a cultural force. Her deep sense of purpose, dedication to her community, and commitment to artistic integrity have made her a beloved and respected figure. Her legacy in music and activism continues to inspire, and as she evolves, Badu remains an embodiment of the power of creativity, resilience, and authentic self-expression. Her journey has been one of exploration, challenging conventions, and embracing the complexity of human experience. As she moves forward, her impact on music and society is undeniable, marking her as one of the most influential and enduring figures in modern music. This has been a Quiet Please production. Head over to Quiet Please dot A I to “Hear What Matters”
Biography Flash: Erykah Badu Honors D'Angelo While Celebrating 25 Years of Mama's Gun on Epic World Tour
Erykah Badu - Audio Biography
3 minutes
1 week ago
Biography Flash: Erykah Badu Honors D'Angelo While Celebrating 25 Years of Mama's Gun on Epic World Tour
Erykah Badu Biography Flash a weekly Biography.
Erykah Badu is in the midst of one of the most significant moments of her career, stepping into the spotlight yet again as she launches The Return of Automatic Slim Tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of her iconic album Mama’s Gun. According to The Music Universe, this highly anticipated tour began at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on October 3 and will continue through major North American and European cities, making stops at legendary venues like London’s Royal Albert Hall and Paris’ Zenith, all the way through December 2025. This celebration is a full-circle moment for Badu, honoring the record that solidified her status as one of neo-soul and hip-hop’s most daring creators and continues to influence new generations of artists.
Just a few nights ago in London, Badu paid an emotional on-stage tribute to her late friend and collaborator D’Angelo during her set at Royal Albert Hall. As reported by V101.9, she spoke directly to the audience about loss, the meaning of death, and the enduring legacy of artistry, then led a spellbinding musical mashup to honor D’Angelo’s memory. Her poignant words and musical homage were amplified online when she took to social media, reminiscing about how D’Angelo’s Brown Sugar album inspired her on her own journey, and how their creative relationship helped launch her now-storied career.
Her public appearances on this tour aren’t just about nostalgia but fresh innovation. The LA Times recently highlighted that the anniversary shows include reimagined arrangements of classics like Bag Lady and Didn’t Cha Know, with surprise guest appearances, such as Westside Gunn at the Hollywood Bowl. Badu has also been performing material from Abi & Alan, a forthcoming collaborative project with hip-hop super-producer The Alchemist. Although the album has yet to be released, the duo has been previewing it for fans in exclusive, phone-free concerts, fueling even more anticipation among her devoted followers.
Meanwhile, Badu keeps her business ventures thriving. She continues to expand her BaduWorldMarket brand and maintains her fashion industry relevance, fresh from winning the 2024 CFDA Fashion Icon Award, illustrating her ever-growing influence beyond just music. Her cannabis brand, Apple Trees, remains a disruptor, and her commitment to livestreaming technologies and wellness for women is still at the forefront of her entrepreneurial ambitions.
Social media chatter over the past few days has focused on her moving D’Angelo tribute, her tour’s sold-out dates, and her characteristic blend of mystique and accessibility. Fans are sharing clips and reflections, marking this stretch not only as an anniversary but as a living testament to her ongoing creative evolution.
That’s a wrap on this edition of Erykah Badu’s Audio Biography. Thank you for listening. Be sure to subscribe to never miss an update on Erykah Badu and search the term Biography Flash for more great Biographies.
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Erykah Badu - Audio Biography
Erykah Badu, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, is a trailblazing artist who brought a unique voice to the neo-soul genre. Raised in a creative household, Badu grew up immersed in the arts and later attended Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Her brief college years at Grambling State University gave way to a full-time career in music. Adopting the name Erykah Badu to mark her spiritual journey, she began cultivating a style that fused hip-hop, soul, jazz, and R&B with deeply introspective and socially aware lyrics. Her big break came when she was discovered by producer Kedar Massenburg, who signed her to Universal Records in the mid-1990s. In 1997, she released her debut album, Baduizm, which earned her international acclaim, including Grammy Awards and comparisons to Billie Holiday. Songs like “On & On” showcased her captivating vocal style, while lyrics delved into themes of spirituality, self-empowerment, and resilience. Baduizm became a defining work of neo-soul, solidifying Badu as one of the genre's leading figures alongside D'Angelo and Maxwell. Following Baduizm, she released a live album that included the iconic song “Tyrone,” a playful and pointed critique of relationship dynamics that has since become a signature track. At the time, Badu was in a relationship with rapper Andre 3000 of OutKast, and they share a son, Seven Sirius Benjamin, born in 1997. Though their relationship was short-lived, their connection left a lasting mark on both artists' music, with Andre paying homage to Badu in OutKast’s lyrics and Badu drawing on her experiences in later albums. In 2000, Badu released Mama’s Gun, a powerful, introspective album that delved into themes of identity, emotional baggage, and self-discovery. Collaborating with talents like Questlove of The Roots and jazz musician Roy Hargrove, Mama’s Gun showed Badu’s ability to push boundaries. The track “Bag Lady” offered a metaphorical take on releasing burdens, and “Didn’t Cha Know” conveyed her journey of self-awareness. This album remains one of the cornerstones of her discography, affirming her role as an innovator in soul music. Badu's next project, Worldwide Underground (2003), experimented with a looser, jam-session style and highlighted her love for freestyle and genre-blending. This album included “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop),” a Grammy-winning collaboration with Common that celebrated hip-hop’s influence on their work. During this period, Badu became known for her eclectic and Afrocentric fashion, setting trends and making bold aesthetic statements that complemented her musical identity. Throughout her career, Badu has also been an outspoken activist, advocating for racial justice, poverty alleviation, and gender equality. Her lyrics often subtly address these issues, and her philanthropic work has been extensive, particularly through her nonprofit organization B.L.I.N.D. (Beautiful Love Incorporated Non-Profit Development), which supports youth and arts programs in her hometown of Dallas. She is also a devoted mother to her three children—Seven, Puma Sabti Curry (daughter with rapper The D.O.C.), and Mars Merkaba Thedford (daughter with Jay Electronica)—and maintains close ties to her community. In 2008, Badu released New Amerykah Part One (4th World War), an ambitious album that addressed social and political issues affecting Black Americans, with tracks like “The Healer” and “Soldier” exploring topics from spiritual resilience to systemic injustice. This album marked a sonic shift towards funk and hip-hop with a more experimental edge, and while it received mixed reviews, it underscored Badu’s commitment to addressing societal challenges. She followed up with New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) in 2010, which focused more on themes of love and introspection. The album included “Window Seat,” whose video sparked controversy for its bold visual statement on vulnerability and liberation; she famously disrobed while walking through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, leading to fines but also sparking widespread discussion on body autonomy and expression. As she progressed through the 2010s, Badu continued to evolve and influence a younger generation of musicians. She collaborated with artists such as Flying Lotus and Tyler, The Creator, and mentored emerging voices like Janelle Monáe. Her ongoing relevance in the music industry reflects her adaptability and openness to new sounds and styles. In 2015, she released the mixtape But You Caint Use My Phone, an exploration of themes around digital disconnection and reconnection, blending her soulful style with trap influences and contemporary beats. Her collaboration with Andre 3000 on “Hello” brought fans full circle, showing how both artists had grown and evolved since their early relationship. Spirituality has always been central to Badu’s life, and over the years, she has developed an interest in healing practices, including becoming a certified doula. Her roles as a healer and spiritual guide extend beyond music; she frequently advocates for mindfulness and self-care, and many fans see her as a cultural and spiritual icon. In her live performances, she exudes a presence that feels both grounded and ethereal, often sharing messages of love, self-reflection, and empowerment. Her public persona blurs the line between artist and shaman, with a growing community looking to her for both musical and personal guidance. In recent years, Badu has also ventured into entrepreneurship, launching Badu World Market, an online store that reflects her lifestyle, with products like incense, herbal blends, and Afrocentric clothing. She has connected with fans during the COVID-19 pandemic through live-streamed quarantine concerts, demonstrating her enduring ability to adapt and maintain relevance even in challenging times. Badu's contributions to music, culture, and social awareness extend far beyond the neo-soul genre. She is widely regarded as the “Godmother of Neo-Soul” for her role in shaping the genre and inspiring countless artists across R&B, hip-hop, and alternative music scenes. Her authentic approach and willingness to address complex themes have influenced contemporary artists like Solange, H.E.R., and Janelle Monáe, who consider her a trailblazer and mentor. Her exploration of identity, spirituality, and social consciousness continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Today, Erykah Badu is celebrated not only as a musician but also as a cultural force. Her deep sense of purpose, dedication to her community, and commitment to artistic integrity have made her a beloved and respected figure. Her legacy in music and activism continues to inspire, and as she evolves, Badu remains an embodiment of the power of creativity, resilience, and authentic self-expression. Her journey has been one of exploration, challenging conventions, and embracing the complexity of human experience. As she moves forward, her impact on music and society is undeniable, marking her as one of the most influential and enduring figures in modern music. This has been a Quiet Please production. Head over to Quiet Please dot A I to “Hear What Matters”
