Erykah Badu confirms new album with The Alchemist
After 15 years in exile, Erykah Badu is back in the studio working on a new album.
Since 2010, Badu’s legion of loyal fans have been patiently waiting for news regarding the follow-up to New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh). Now, in a new interview, Badu has revealed she is currently working alongside decorated hip-hop producer The Alchemist on a new record.
The Alchemist is one of the most highly rated producers in the hip-hop game. He has made acclaimed collaborative albums with Earl Sweatshirt and has worked with Eminem, Big Sean, Nas, Action Bronson, and Lil Wayne.
Badu didn’t delve into much detail about the themes of the upcoming record but did say that it is “taking up most of her time”. The R&B icon also said that “she can’t wait until it’s done” which suggests it won’t be too long until it’s released.
In the same interview with Billboard, Badu shared a glowing endorsement of the current hip-hop landscape, stating, “[The thing I like about rap right now] is the same thing I liked about rap when I first met it. Rap is the people. Hip-hop is the people. It’s the folks. It’s the tribe.”
She continued: “I have the luxury of experiencing having children who I watch grow up and love and encourage very much, and I cannot separate them when I see artists who are that age coming up. That’s how they feel. They are continuing the tradition.”
Although the upcoming project marks her first full-length release in 15 years, Badu has remained busy touring throughout this period rather than resting on the sofa. Later this month, she is set to play the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, ahead of an appearance at J Cole’s upcoming Dreamville Festival on April 6th.