In the statement, Erykah Badu expresses her early musical influences through the phrase "I grew up listening to old soul." This indicates that from a young age, she was immersed in and captivated by the genre of music known as old soul. Old soul refers to a specific period in the mid-1960s through the early 1970s when artists like Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye were at their peak, producing heartfelt songs that resonated deeply with listeners.
Exploring beyond its surface meaning, this quote also hints at the profound impact of old soul on Badu's personal development and artistic identity. The music she listened to as a child was not just entertainment; it served as a cultural touchstone that likely shaped her worldview, values, and emotional expression. Old soul is characterized by its rich storytelling and powerful emotional delivery, qualities that are evident in Badu’s own work. By connecting with this genre early on, she might have developed a deep appreciation for authentic musical expression, which influenced her approach to singing and songwriting as an artist.
Erykah Badu, the speaker of this quote, is an American singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and eclectic style that blends elements of jazz, soul, hip-hop, and R&B. Born in Dallas, Texas, she gained widespread recognition in the 1990s with her debut album "Baduizm," which showcased a return to the raw and emotional sound of old soul music. Badu has since become a significant figure in contemporary R&B, celebrated not only for her musical talent but also for her activism and contributions to social causes.
