Erykah Badu is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, and actress known for her role in the rise of the neo-soul subgenre. Her debut album, Baduizm, released in 1997, was a critical and commercial success, earning her two Grammy Awards. Badu's music blends R&B, hip hop, and jazz, and she is recognized for her distinctive style, both musically and fashionably. She is often referred to as the "Queen of Neo-Soul".