Erykah Badu
Erica Abi Wright
Erykah Badu is an American singer from Dallas, Texas active since 1994.
- Profession
- Singer, Songwriter, Record producer
- From
- Dallas, Texas
- Born
- February 26, 1971
- Years active
- 1994–present
Early life
Born Erica Wright and raised in Dallas, Texas, Erykah Badu studied theater at Grambling State University and performed in dance and spoken-word circles before being discovered, developing the mystical, jazz-steeped persona that would help launch an entire genre.
Career
Her 1997 debut "Baduizm" introduced the neo-soul movement to the mainstream, and follow-ups "Mama's Gun," "Worldwide Underground," and "New Amerykah" fused soul, jazz, funk, and hip-hop with poetic, socially aware songwriting. She has also acted, DJ'd, and served as an unofficial doula and cultural figure.
Major achievements
She has won multiple Grammy Awards, earned the enduring title "Queen of Neo Soul," and influenced a wide swath of contemporary R&B and hip-hop artists who cite her as a touchstone.
Legacy
Erykah Badu shaped the sound, fashion, and spirit of neo-soul, and her free-spirited artistry continues to inspire decades of musicians across genres.
References
Frequently asked questions about Erykah Badu
- What is Erykah Badu known for?
- Erykah Badu is an American singer from Dallas, Texas active since 1994. Erykah Badu is recognized as a singer, songwriter, and record producer.
- Where is Erykah Badu from?
- Erykah Badu is from Dallas, Texas.
- When was Erykah Badu born?
- Erykah Badu was born on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas.
- What kind of music does Erykah Badu make?
- Erykah Badu's music spans Neo soul, R&B, and Soul.
- Is Erykah Badu still active?
- Yes — Erykah Badu has been active since 1994 and continues to work today.
- What record labels has Erykah Badu been associated with?
- Erykah Badu has been associated with Kedar, Motown, and Universal.
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