Erica Abi Wright, known professionally as Erykah Badu, is an influential American singer and songwriter born in 1971. Blending R and B, soul, and hip hop, Badu emerged as a leading artist of the neo soul movement in the late 1990s with her critically acclaimed debut album Baduizm. Often called the Queen of Neo Soul, she is known for her distinctive voice and eclectic style, as well as her signature headwraps. Badu began her recording career after catching the attention of Kedar Massenburg in 1994. She has released celebrated albums including Mama's Gun, Worldwide Underground, and the New Amerykah series, earning multiple platinum and gold certifications and hit singles such as On and On, Bag Lady, and Love of My Life. Badu is also recognized as a core member of the Soulquarians collective. Beyond music, she has appeared in films like Blues Brothers 2000 and The Cider House Rules, and documentaries such as The Black Power Mixtape 1967 to 1975. Badu remains a creative force admired for her innovative sound and lasting impact on contemporary soul music.