
Music Feature: Erykah Badu at 55
Loading player...
This week’s music feature celebrates neo-soul royalty as Erykah Badu turns 55. Born Erica Abi Wright in Dallas, Texas, Badu reshaped the sound of modern soul when she released Baduizm in 1997 - a debut that didn’t just introduce an artist but ignited a movement. With her signature blend of jazz, hip hop and spiritual lyricism, she earned her place as the queen of neo-soul and a matriarch of alternative R&B. Musicologist Dr Sheldon Rocha Leal reflects on her influence and legacy as we play classics like On & On, Bag Lady and Love of My Life - timeless tracks that continue to shape the culture decades later.

