( ENSPIRE Entertainment ) Erykah Badu’s “Echoes 19” Celebrates Black History and Culture Live from Dallas
ENSPIRE Contributor: Sydney N. Culpepper
Photo Credit: Jackson Visuals/Ajia Jackson
In a celebration rooted in rhythm, resistance, and reverence, Grammy Award-winning icon Erykah Badu headlined “Badu Presents: Echoes 19”, an Amazon Music Original Juneteenth special, live from her hometown of Dallas, Texas. The event seamlessly blended storytelling, performance, and heritage—anchored by Badu’s transcendent presence.
Before Badu’s much-anticipated set, hosts Mouse Jones, Wayno, and Nyla Symone guided a conversation featuring notable voices from the culture. Among them: music mogul Kedar Massenberg, who coined the term neo-soul and played a pivotal role in Badu’s rise. Reflecting on her early days, he shared, “She had a certain level of consciousness and positivity—it differentiated her.”
Photo Credit: Jackson Visuals/Ajia Jackson
Also joining the discussion were Sibil Fox and Robert Richardson, a couple personally impacted by incarceration, who brought a poignant message about shared struggle and resilience in Black communities. “We say formerly incarcerated couple because we served the time together,” Sibil explained, recounting their journey from prison time to purpose.
Dallas native Tye Harris opened the show with a raw, piano-backed performance that unpacked the everyday realities of the Black experience. “What you gon’ do in the summertime bro—this your last week,” he rapped, instantly connecting with the crowd’s spirit.
Producer Alchemist and lyricist Rapsody brought insight and humor, reflecting on working with Badu and teasing upcoming projects. “The aura… she’s everything you’ve heard,” Alchemist said in awe. Rapsody confirmed she’d heard Badu’s new album—but wasn’t giving away secrets: “That’s part of the excitement—you get to wait and wonder.”
Content creator Zoe Spencer, representing a younger generation of Badu fans, reminded viewers of the intergenerational impact of Badu’s music. “I grew up on her,” she said. “The older I get, the more I understand her.”
And then—Badu.
Her performance began with a visual tribute to her ancestors, her voice guiding the audience through lineage and legacy. Background singers Terron Austin and LaLa Johnson, clad in glittering pink and green, led the procession as projected roots sprawled across the backdrop—a powerful metaphor for Black history and grounding.
Photo Credit: Jackson Visuals/Ajia Jackson
Draped in a pink gown, gold headpiece, and futuristic sunglasses, Badu stood atop organ pipes reminiscent of church altars. She floated through a set that included “The Healer,” “Apple Tree,” “On & On,” and “Window Seat.” At times, she stripped away layers—her gown, her grills, her headpiece—symbolically growing more open with each moment.
Midway through the show, Badu grabbed wind chimes and harmonized with them, inviting the audience into a shared spiritual space. As lasers danced in pinks, blues, and greens, her voice remained the steady pulse—soft, strong, and sovereign.
Photo Credit: Jackson Visuals/Ajia Jackson
Before ending with the heartfelt “Didn’t Ya Know,” she announced a surprise: a new single with Alchemist, set to drop at midnight. The crowd erupted.
As always, Badu didn’t just perform—she ministered. On a day meant to honor freedom, she reminded us of the power of presence, of sound, of storytelling. With Echoes 19, Badu once again proved her timelessness—and why she remains one of the most revered artists in Black culture.
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