After more than a decade away from the studio, Erykah Badu is officially working on a brand-new album — and she’s teaming up with one of hip-hop’s most respected producers, The Alchemist.
Badu’s last studio album, New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh), dropped in 2010. Since then, fans have been eagerly waiting for new music from the neo-soul icon. Now, in a new interview with Billboard, she revealed she’s back in the studio and fully immersed in her next project.
Although she didn’t share too many specifics, Badu confirmed that the album is “taking up most of her time” and admitted, “I can’t wait until it’s done,” hinting that the release may not be too far away.
The Alchemist, known for his signature, soulful sound and work with artists like Eminem, Nas, Big Sean, Earl Sweatshirt, Action Bronson, and Lil Wayne, brings a fresh dynamic to Badu’s upcoming project. Their collaboration has already sparked excitement across both R&B and hip-hop communities.
In the interview, Badu also praised the current state of hip-hop, saying, “Rap is the people. Hip-hop is the people. It’s the folks. It’s the tribe.” She noted how today’s rising artists remind her of her own children, calling them a continuation of the culture’s legacy.
Though she’s been absent from studio recordings, Badu has remained active on stage, touring steadily over the years. She’s set to perform at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, this month, and will also appear at J. Cole’s Dreamville Festival on April 6.
This upcoming album marks a long-awaited return from one of the most influential voices in soul and R&B — and fans won’t want to miss what she’s about to deliver.
