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 Rejects Ms. Jackson Myth, Rocks London Stage at 25-Year Mark
Erykah Badu - Audio Biography
3 minutes
2 weeks ago
Biography Flash: Erykah Badu Rejects Ms. Jackson Myth, Rocks London Stage at 25-Year Mark
Erykah Badu Biography Flash a weekly Biography.
Erykah Badu has been back in the media spotlight these past few days, stirring up both nostalgia and some fresh biographical intrigue. On October 24, while celebrating the 25th anniversary of Outkast’s "Ms. Jackson," Badu appeared on The New York Times’ Popcast podcast where she made waves by refuting the long-standing assumption that the hit song was actually about her or her mother. She told BET and TheGrio that she doesn't believe the record centers on her, even as her mother remains an enthusiastic fan of the idea, proudly sporting bumper stickers and T-shirts emblazoned with the song’s reference. Badu dated André 3000 from 1995 to 1999 and their son, Seven Sirius Benjamin, was born in 1997, leading many to interpret the song as André’s musical apology to Badu’s family, but both the singer and Outkast have downplayed that narrative, saying the track’s message was broader, meant to honor all "baby mamas’ mamas" and not just one specific person.
In terms of public appearances, Erykah Badu is very much present and active on tour. Last night, on October 24, she performed a highly anticipated show at London’s Royal Albert Hall, an event widely covered by the European press, and images from the performance showcase her signature style and stage command. If you missed her there, she’s slated to appear at O2 Apollo, Manchester on Sunday, October 26, according to Eventbrite listings—her European fans are in for a treat this weekend.
Badu’s influence on culture continues to be a talking point, as evidenced by a piece in the Berkeley Political Review, which revisited her 2008 song "Master Teacher" and her pivotal role popularizing the phrase "stay woke." The publication traces how her advocacy and musical choices led to the mainstream appropriation and eventual politicization of "woke," a phenomenon still being debated in 2025 as the term’s meaning splinters and evolves.
No major business deals or new music releases have been reported from reliable sources in the last 24 hours, but her ongoing tour and media interviews reinforce her continued relevance and potential for long-term impact, especially as she offers her own take on decades-old cultural lore, challenging and reshaping her legacy in real time. As of this episode, her most buzzed-about headline is her Popcast interview and her playful dismissal of "Ms. Jackson" folklore, injecting new life into conversations about her life, family, and the mythos that surrounds her.
Thanks for listening, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an update on Erykah Badu. Search "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”
