This debate comes from the Neo-Soul vault. Let’s shine light on two debuts that help establish R&B’s subgenre: Brown Sugar and Baduizm by D’Angelo and Erykah Badu, respectively.
Brown Sugar found it’s way to R&B listeners first in 1995. R&B, Jazz, Gospel, and Blues were infused into 10 tracks. In addition, using metaphors to convey his message. For example, D’Angelo disguise marijuana as a beautiful brown-skinned woman in the album’s title track.
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“Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine” the album’s fourth single and one of my personal favorites, provided one of the most seductive lines in R&B history.
“But if I had the chance, I’d treat her like a queen just like I do in all my dreams.”
Brown Sugar was promoted by the aforementioned tracks as well as the Smokey Robinson’s remake “Crusin’,” and “Lady.”
The Virginia native was a skilled multi-instrumentalist, which earned him comparisons to Prince.
Brown Sugar debuted at number six on the US Billboard’s Top R&B Albums and earned four Grammy Award nominations.
Baduizm came two years later. Despite going up against stiff competition such as Share My World and Butterfly, by Mary J. Blige and Mariah Carey, respectively, Erykah’s Afrocentric image and musical style would be undeniable.
“On & On,” the album’s first single, speaks on spirituality which reflects the teachings of the Nation of Gods and Earths or the 5 percenter.
“Next Lifetime” would touch on spirituality in forms of reincarnation. Erykah tells the story about a love interest that despite the mutual attraction, the two can’t be together due to her relationship status. “I guess I’ll see you next lifetime” she suggests.
The album was promoted by aforementioned singles “On & On” and “Next Lifetime.” In addition, “Otherside of the Game” and “Apple Tree.”
Baduizm peaked at number 2 on the Billboard 200 and number 1 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. The album would go 3 times platinum (over 3 million copies sold).
Like Brown Sugar, Baduizm was accredited for laying the foundation for Neo-Soul and helping the subgenre gain commercial popularity.
‘Brown Sugar’ or ‘Baduizm’?
[Poll Are Closed!]
D’Angelo – Brown Sugar – 50%
Erykah Badu – Baduizm – 50%
Poll Closes February 26th at 11:59PM Central Standard Time