Erykah Badu (b.1971,) born Erica Abi Wright, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress, widely regarded as the Queen of Neo-Soul for blending R&B, jazz, and hip-hop.
Born in Dallas, Texas, she studied dance and theater at Grambling State University before pursuing music full-time. She gained prominence with her début album, Baduizm (1997,) featuring “On & On,” which won a Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. Her follow-up, Mama’s Gun (2000,) included the acclaimed “Bag Lady.”
Badu evolved artistically with Worldwide Underground (2003,) New Amerykah Part One (Fourth World War) (2008,) and New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) (2010,) solidifying her reputation as a visionary artist. Her music, often compared to Billie Holiday’s, reflects a soulful, narrative-driven style.
Beyond music, she acted in The Cider House Rules (1999) and House of D (2004.) She also co-authored Channel Kindness: Stories of Kindness and Community (2020,) a collection of inspiring stories.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Erykah Badu
Hopefully my music is medicine, some type of antidote for something or some kind of explanation or just to feel good.
—Erykah Badu
Topics: Explanation
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