Erykah Badu, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, is a multifaceted force in music and a cultural icon. She has left an undeniable mark on the world of soul, R&B and hip-hop. Known for her ethereal voice, poetic lyrics and bohemian sense of style, Badu emerged in the late 1990s as a prominent figure in the neo-soul movement. Her debut album, Baduizm (1997), was a key gateway into the start of her music career, earning her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards. Featuring hits like “On & On” and “Next Lifetime,” which highlight her unique fusion of jazz, soul, R&B and hip-hop, the album solidified her spot as a trailblazer amongst soul artists. Badu grew up in a family deeply connected to the arts, which profoundly influenced her artistic journey. Her mother, Kolleen Gipson, was an actress and singer, and her grandmother, Thelma Gipson, was a renowned performer. Having strong female influences in her life helped to nurture Badu’s love for the stage and...
