Erykah Badu

The Profile

Erykah Badu (born Erica Abi Wright) is an American singer‑songwriter and producer widely dubbed the "Queen of Neo‑Soul." She rose to prominence with the Grammy‑winning 1997 debut Baduizm and followed with acclaimed releases including Mama’s Gun, Worldwide Underground, and the New Amerykah series. A key figure of the Soulquarians collective, she blends soul, R&B, hip hop, and jazz with singular style.

Born 1971 in Dallas, Texas; member of the Soulquarians; Baduizm earned two Grammys (including Best R&B Album); "On & On" won Best Female R&B Vocal Performance; DJ alias DJ Lo Down Loretta Brown; acting credits include The Cider House Rules and Blues Brothers 2000.

DeBaser’s reviewers celebrate Erykah Badu’s neo‑soul legacy: Baduizm is hailed as a modern classic, Mama’s Gun as a refined, soulful expansion, and Worldwide Underground as a free‑form, jam‑leaning concept. New Amerykah Part Two is praised for eclectic warmth and personality, while the mixtape But You Caint Use My Phone draws mixed reactions. Overall tone: admiring, with sharp ears for groove, voice, and craft.