Erykah Badu is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, and actress, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas. She is known for her unique blend of soul, R&B, hip hop, jazz, and funk, as well as her distinctive voice and eclectic musical style.
Badu burst onto the music scene in the late 1990s with her debut album, “Baduizm,” released in 1997. The album received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, earning Badu several Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her hit single “On & On.”
Throughout her career, Badu has continued to push the boundaries of contemporary R&B music, experimenting with different genres and collaborating with a diverse range of artists. She has released several successful albums, including “Mama’s Gun” (2000), “Worldwide Underground” (2003), “New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)” (2008), and “New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh)” (2010).
In addition to her music career, Badu has also pursued acting, appearing in films such as “The Cider House Rules” (1999) and “Blues Brothers 2000” (1998), as well as television shows like “Black Dynamite” and “Empire.”
Erykah Badu’s influence extends beyond music and entertainment; she is also known for her activism and social commentary, advocating for issues such as racial equality, women’s rights, and mental health awareness. She remains a beloved and influential figure in contemporary music and culture, admired for her talent, creativity, and authenticity.
1. Window Seat
“Window Seat” is a song by Erykah Badu, released in 2010 as the lead single from her album “New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh).” The song was written by Badu and James Poyser and produced by Badu and Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson.
“Window Seat” is characterized by its laid-back groove, soulful melody, and introspective lyrics. The song’s lyrics touch on themes of self-reflection, liberation, and the desire for personal freedom. In the accompanying music video, Badu famously walks through the streets of Dallas, Texas, stripping off her clothes until she is completely naked, which symbolizes shedding societal expectations and constraints.
The song received critical acclaim for its innovative production, thought-provoking lyrics, and bold visual presentation. It reached moderate success on the charts and became a favorite among fans of Badu’s music.
“Window Seat” showcases Badu’s talent for blending soul, R&B, and hip-hop influences with her own unique artistic vision. It remains a standout track in her discography and a testament to her creativity and artistry as a musician and performer.
2. Honey
“Honey” is a song by Erykah Badu, the American singer-songwriter, released in 2007 on her album “New Amerykah Part One (4th World War).” The song was written by Badu, along with 9th Wonder, James Poyser, and Ahmir Thompson.
“Honey” is characterized by its smooth neo-soul sound, featuring laid-back grooves, jazzy instrumentation, and Badu’s soulful vocals. Lyrically, the song is an ode to love and desire, with Badu expressing her affection for her partner and comparing their relationship to the sweetness of honey.
The song received critical acclaim upon its release, with praise for Badu’s vocal performance and the song’s infectious melody. “Honey” became one of the standout tracks on “New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)” and remains a fan favorite among Badu’s discography.
3. Hello ft. Andre 3000
“Hello” is a song by Erykah Badu featuring André 3000, released in 2000 on Badu’s album “Mama’s Gun.” The song was written by Badu, along with André 3000 and James Poyser.
“Hello” is a soulful R&B track with elements of funk and hip-hop. The song features Badu’s smooth vocals alongside André 3000’s distinctive rap verses. Lyrically, “Hello” explores themes of love, relationships, and communication, with Badu and André 3000 trading verses about the complexities of romantic connections.
The song received positive reviews from music critics, who praised Badu and André 3000’s chemistry and the song’s infectious groove. “Hello” became one of the standout tracks on “Mama’s Gun” and remains a fan favorite among Badu’s discography.
4. The Healer
“The Healer” is a song by Erykah Badu, released in 2008 as a single from her album “New Amerykah Part One (4th World War).” The song features rapper Pharoahe Monch and was produced by Madlib.
“The Healer” is characterized by its laid-back and jazzy vibe, featuring a relaxed groove, hypnotic bassline, and Badu’s soulful vocals. Lyrically, the song addresses social and political issues, with Badu and Pharoahe Monch delivering socially conscious verses about the state of the world and the need for healing and change.
The song received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking lyrics, innovative production, and Badu’s captivating performance. “The Healer” became one of the standout tracks on “New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)” and further solidified Badu’s reputation as an artist who pushes boundaries and addresses important issues through her music.
5. Tyrone
“Tyrone” is a song by Erykah Badu, released in 1997 as the lead single from her live album “Live.” The song was written by Badu and Norman “Keys” Hurt, and it was produced by Badu and Madukwu Chinwah.
“Tyrone” is a neo soul and R&B song characterized by its laid-back groove, sparse instrumentation, and Badu’s soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics address a man named Tyrone, who is causing problems in the narrator’s life. Badu sings about her frustrations with Tyrone’s behavior and warns him that she’s had enough.
The song’s chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “I’m getting tired of your shit, you don’t never buy me nothing,” became an iconic catchphrase and resonated with listeners, particularly women, who related to Badu’s message of empowerment and self-respect.
“Tyrone” was a commercial success, reaching number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 4 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It received critical acclaim for its raw honesty, soulful delivery, and infectious groove.
The live version of “Tyrone” from Badu’s “Live” album is particularly notable for its extended outro, during which Badu engages in humorous banter with the audience and improvises lyrics, adding to the song’s spontaneity and charm.
6. Other Side of the Game
“Other Side of the Game” is a song by Erykah Badu, featured on her debut studio album “Baduizm,” released in 1997. The song was written by Badu and A. “Sy” Richardson and produced by Madukwu Chinwah and JaBorn Jamal.
“Other Side of the Game” is characterized by its smooth neo soul groove, jazzy instrumentation, and Badu’s soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, relationships, and the struggles faced by those involved in illegal activities, particularly drug dealing.
In “Other Side of the Game,” Badu sings from the perspective of a woman whose partner is involved in illegal activities. She reflects on the challenges and risks they face, including the threat of violence and incarceration, and expresses her desire for a better life.
The song received critical acclaim for its poignant lyrics, sophisticated production, and Badu’s emotive delivery. It showcases Badu’s talent for blending elements of soul, R&B, and jazz with her own unique artistic vision.
“Other Side of the Game” remains a standout track on “Baduizm” and a favorite among fans of Erykah Badu’s music. Its timeless appeal and thought-provoking lyrics have contributed to its enduring popularity.
7. Bag Lady
“Bag Lady” is a song by Erykah Badu, released in 2000 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Mama’s Gun.” The song was written by Badu and produced by Badu and James Poyser.
“Bag Lady” is characterized by its soulful groove, laid-back instrumentation, and Badu’s emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics address the emotional baggage that people carry with them throughout life, using the metaphor of a “bag lady” who carries all her worldly possessions with her wherever she goes.
In “Bag Lady,” Badu sings about the importance of letting go of past hurts, regrets, and negative emotions in order to move forward and find inner peace. She encourages the listener to release the burdens they carry and to focus on healing and self-love.
The song’s message resonated with audiences and critics alike, and “Bag Lady” became one of Badu’s biggest hits, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning widespread acclaim for its soulful sound and powerful lyrics.
“Bag Lady” remains one of Erykah Badu’s most beloved and enduring songs, and its message of self-empowerment and emotional healing continues to inspire listeners around the world.
8. Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip Hop) ft. Common
“Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip Hop)” is a song by Erykah Badu featuring Common, released in 2002. The song is from Badu’s album “Worldwide Underground.”
“Love of My Life” is a tribute to hip hop culture, celebrating its influence and impact on Badu and Common’s lives. The song features a sample of “The Look of Love” by Isaac Hayes and incorporates elements of soul, jazz, and funk, characteristic of Badu’s musical style.
In the song, Badu and Common express their love and appreciation for hip hop, highlighting its ability to uplift, inspire, and unite people from different backgrounds. They pay homage to the pioneers and legends of the genre while also reflecting on their own personal experiences and connections to hip hop culture.
“Love of My Life” received critical acclaim for its infectious groove, clever wordplay, and positive message. The song’s catchy hook and memorable lyrics resonated with listeners, and it became one of Badu’s most successful singles, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The collaboration between Badu and Common on “Love of My Life” showcased their chemistry as artists and further solidified their status as influential figures in the world of hip hop and R&B music.
9. On & On
“On & On” is a song by Erykah Badu, released in 1997 as the lead single from her debut album “Baduizm.” The song was written by Badu and produced by Madukwu Chinwah.
“On & On” is characterized by its laid-back neo-soul sound, featuring a smooth groove, jazzy instrumentation, and Badu’s soulful vocals. Lyrically, the song explores themes of spirituality, self-discovery, and overcoming adversity, with Badu reflecting on life’s challenges and the importance of staying true to oneself.
The song was a critical and commercial success, earning Badu acclaim for her distinctive voice and unique musical style. “On & On” received Grammy Awards for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Song, further solidifying Badu’s reputation as one of the leading figures in neo-soul music.
The success of “On & On” helped propel “Baduizm” to widespread acclaim, making it one of the most influential R&B albums of the late 1990s. The song remains one of Badu’s signature tracks and a fan favorite in her discography.
10. Didn’t Cha Know
“Didn’t Cha Know” is a song by Erykah Badu, featured on her second studio album “Mama’s Gun,” released in 2000. The song was written by Badu and James Poyser, and produced by Poyser.
“Didn’t Cha Know” is characterized by its laid-back groove, jazzy instrumentation, and Badu’s soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics reflect on themes of self-discovery, growth, and the passage of time. Badu sings about the ups and downs of life, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
The song’s production features a blend of live instrumentation and electronic elements, creating a lush and atmospheric sound. Badu’s vocals float effortlessly over the music, conveying a sense of introspection and emotional depth.
“Didn’t Cha Know” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with praise for its sophisticated production, poetic lyrics, and Badu’s captivating performance. It has since become one of Badu’s most beloved and enduring songs, admired for its timeless appeal and introspective message.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
