Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1970, in Dallas, Texas, is an influential American singer-songwriter and actress known for her unique blend of neo-soul, R&B, and hip-hop. She emerged in the late 1990s with her debut album, *Baduizm* (1997), which featured hits like "On & On" and "Next Lifetime," earning her critical acclaim and commercial success. The album won her the Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. Badu's subsequent works, including *Mama's Gun* (2000) and *New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)* (2008), further solidified her status as a pioneer of the neo-soul genre. Her music often incorporates elements of jazz, funk, and spoken word, and she is known for her distinctive contralto voice and thought-provoking lyrics. Beyond her musical contributions, Badu has had a significant cultural impact, often addressing themes of spirituality, social justice, and personal empowerment in her work. She has influenced a generation of artists, including Solange and Janelle Monáe, and continues to be a prominent figure in contemporary music and activism.