Born on this day in 1971 in Dallas, Texas, Erica Abi Wright, better known to the world as Erykah Badu, has cemented herself as one of the most dynamic and influential entertainers of the past two decades.
Her debut album, Baduizm, not only introduced the world to her soulful, otherworldly sound but also became a cultural phenomenon. The project, which went triple platinum, helped define the neo-soul movement and even turned Baduizm into a term associated with a woman’s ability to captivate and influence her partner.
Beyond her music, Badu’s personal life has often intertwined with Hip Hop royalty. She shares children with rap legends The D.O.C., Jay Electronica, and André 3000, and was in a long-standing relationship with Common. Despite her high-profile personal life, she has remained focused on her artistry, consistently pushing boundaries with five groundbreaking solo albums, each leaving an indelible mark across multiple genres.
Salute to the Queen on her born day—wishing her continued greatness and many more years of influence, creativity, and artistry!