Erykah Badu Biography

Erykah Badu, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, is a prominent American singer and songwriter renowned for her contributions to the neo-soul genre.

Rising to fame in the late 1990s with her debut album Baduizm, she earned the title “Queen of Neo Soul” for her innovative blend of R&B, soul, and hip hop. Badu’s unique style and impactful music continue to influence the industry today.

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Profile Summary

Early Life and Biography

Erykah Badu was born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas. Raised by her mother, who was a former backup dancer and an aspiring actress, Badu was exposed to music and the arts early on.

She began performing at a young age, showcasing her talent at local events and high school performances. Badu attended the Performing Arts High School in Dallas, where she honed her musical skills.

Her deep interest in music and performance led her to start recording demos, which eventually caught the attention of a music producer. This breakthrough led to her signing a record deal and the release of her debut album, Baduizm, marking the beginning of her influential career in music.

Career

Erykah Badu began her music career with a significant break in 1994, opening for D’Angelo, which led to a record deal with Kedar Entertainment. Her debut album, Baduizm (1997), was a critical and commercial success, establishing her as a leading figure in neo-soul.

The album, featuring hits like “On & On,” was certified triple platinum and won a Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. Badu’s subsequent albums, including Mama’s Gun (2000) and Worldwide Underground (2003), continued her success, with notable singles like “Bag Lady” and “Love of My Life.”

In 2008, she released New Amerykah Part One, which was praised for its innovative sound. Despite the controversy surrounding the video for her single “Window Seat,” Badu remained influential. She released New Amerykah Part Two in 2010 and continued to impact music with mixtapes and collaborations throughout the 2010s.

Family

While Erykah Badu has never been married, she has been in several high-profile relationships and has three children:

Seven Sirius Benjamin (born November 18, 1997) – father is André 3000 of OutKast

Puma Sabti Curry (born July 5, 2004) – father is rapper The D.O.C.

Mars Merkaba Thedford (born February 1, 2009) – father is rapper Jay Electronica

Badu’s notable romantic relationships include:

1. André 3000 (1996-1999)
2. Common (2000-2002)
3. The D.O.C. (2003-2004)
4. Jay Electronica (2004-2009)

Accolades & Recognitions

Throughout her career, Erykah Badu has received numerous awards and accolades, including:

• Four Grammy Awards
• Three Soul Train Music Awards
• Three Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards
• Two American Music Awards
• Two BET Awards

Badu has also been recognized for her influence on music and culture. She is often referred to as the “Queen of Neo Soul” and has been cited as an inspiration by many contemporary artists.

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Discography

Studio Albums

• Baduizm (1997)
• Mama’s Gun (2000)
• Worldwide Underground (2003)
• New Amerykah Part One (4th World War) (2008)
• New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) (2010)

Live Albums

Live (1997)

Mixtapes

Feel Better World! … Love, Ms. Badu (2015)

But You Caint Use My Phone (2015)

Filmography

Erykah Badu has appeared in several films and television shows, including:

• Blues Brothers 2000 (1998)
• The Cider House Rules (1999)
• House of D (2004)
• Before the Music Dies (2006)
• Dave Chappelle’s Block Party (2006)
• The Land (2016)
• What Men Want (2019)

She has also made appearances on television shows such as Def Poetry Jam and Black Dynamite.

Controversies

Badu has been involved in several controversies throughout her career:

• In 2010, she faced legal issues for filming the music video for “Window Seat” nude in Dealey Plaza, Dallas. She was charged with disorderly conduct and paid a $500 fine.
• In 2012, her concert in Malaysia was canceled due to a temporary tattoo of the word “Allah” on her body.
• In 2014, she faced criticism for performing at the birthday celebration of King Mswati III of Eswatini, who has been accused of human rights abuses.
• In 2018, she stirred controversy with comments about Hitler in an interview with Vulture magazine.
• In 2019, she faced backlash for expressing support for R. Kelly during a concert, amid allegations of sexual abuse against the singer.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Erykah Badu’s estimated net worth is approximately $10 million. This wealth comes from her successful music career, including album sales, tours, and royalties, as well as her work in film and television. Badu has also ventured into other business endeavors, including her line of incense and merchandise.

Wrap Up

Erykah Badu’s journey from a young performer in Dallas to an internationally acclaimed artist is a testament to her unique talent and artistic vision. Her contributions to neo-soul and R&B have left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Beyond her musical achievements, Badu’s influence extends to fashion, spirituality, and social activism. Despite controversies, she remains a respected and influential figure in popular culture, continuously evolving as an artist and inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.

FAQs

What is Erykah Badu’s real name?

Erykah Badu was born Erica Abi Wright.

How many children does Erykah Badu have?

Erykah Badu has three children: Seven Sirius, Puma Sabti, and Mars Merkaba.

What is neo-soul music?

Neo-soul is a genre that blends elements of contemporary R&B and 1970s-style soul with influences from jazz, funk, and hip-hop.

Has Erykah Badu won any Grammy Awards?

Yes, Erykah Badu has won four Grammy Awards throughout her career.

What other professions does Erykah Badu have besides singing?

In addition to singing, Badu is a songwriter, record producer, actress, and certified doula.

What was Erykah Badu’s debut album?

Erykah Badu’s debut album was “Baduizm,” released in 1997.

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