Its cutting-edge hip-hop sound – delivered here in the shape of an ethereal flute sample offset by sharp, clipped minimalist beats by producer Karriem Riggins – formed the backbone for the singer’s hard-hitting meditations on racial inequality and black oppression. Originally released in 1997 on Badu’s Live album, Lizzo’s cover came toward the end of her 70-minute set, which was part of American Express’ UNSTAGED concert series for Amex card members. New Amerykah Part One (4th World War) found Badu taking a huge stylistic and thematic detour from her previous efforts. The track ends with a delicious nod to rare-groove man Johnny Hammond’s “Can’t We Smile.” 14: Soldier Erykah Badu - LIVE (Factory Sealed CD, 1997) feat.

There is a kindred bond between the singer and her audiences which translates wonderfully onto the disc. 15: Time’s A Wastin’Ī highlight from her second album, Mama’s Gun, “Time’s A Wastin’” fuses funky bass lines with lush strings and playful keyboard interjections to underscore Badu’s cautionary tale to a young black man. To put it mildly, the Badu live experience is anything but typical.

Released in 2003 as a supposed EP that was actually longer than most artists’ full-length albums, Worldwide Underground’s immaculately executed analog grooves were exemplified by the deep basslines, dreamy keyboard runs and exquisitely funky guitars of this single – a nostalgic ode to youthful days spent smoking weed with friends.

Erykah badu tyrone album cover