04
Finding Her Way
On her sophomore studio album, “Mama’s Gun,” Badu seemed to be looking inside herself for the answers. “Orange Moon” and “Cleva” were standout tracks, but we couldn’t turn away when she rocked a shaved head in the video for “Didn’t Cha Know.” The year was 2000 and a new Erykah was emerging, right before our eyes.
09
Control Freaq
In 2005, Badu stepped up her business game with the launch of her label, Control Freaq Records. Her ever-expanding resume also includes acting roles (“Cider House Rules” and “House of D”) and soundtrack credits. “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip Hop)” from “Brown Sugar” is still one of our favorites.