Concert Review : Erykah Badu at Wolf Trap

Despite the forecast of potential thunderstorms, Erykah Badu's scheduled performance on Saturday, June 14th, at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Virginia, proceeded as planned, engaging her devoted fans with an enjoyable musical experience. DJ Rashad Ringo Smith was he openinng suport act.

The outdoor venue was the perfect atmosphere for the songstress and avant-garde fashionista's brand of Neo-Soul. The DJ provided a solid set; however, towards the end, his momentum was dying as fans waited for Ms. Badu to appear on stage. Finally, at 9:05, the woman of the hour appeared to thunderous applause. Dressed in a stylish black floor coat, it was clear that Ms. Badu hadn't come to play any games.

Her performance ignited with an electrifying cover of "Mothership Connection" by George Clinton & Parliament-Funkadelic, setting the stage ablaze with vibrant energy. The set then flowed effortlessly into a dynamic trio of songs: "The Healer," "On & On/...& On," and "Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip Hop)." As the familiar beats of the latter two resonated through the venue, the crowd erupted with enthusiasm, rising to their feet and singing along passionately, every lyric echoing in unison.

The rest of the evening, Erykah Badu took the audience on a mesmerizing journey through her illustrious thirty-year career. The setlist featured beloved classics that spanned her discography, including hits like "Sometimes," "Appletree," "Honey," "Back in the Day (Puff)," and "Window Seat." Each song evoked nostalgia and excitement, resonating deeply with the crowd.

However, the night's highlight was her stunning performance of "Bag Lady." This rendition was particularly memorable as it was infused with an energetic twist, seamlessly blending in elements from the classic tracks "Ain't No Fun (If the Homies Can't Have None)" and "Ain't Nobody." The unexpected fusion created a vibrant atmosphere, igniting the audience's enthusiasm and leaving everyone in awe of her artistic brilliance.

Sadly, three of my favorite Badu songs, "Tyrone," "Next Lifetime," and "Turn Me Away (Get MuNNY)," didn't make it into the setlist. Nevertheless, despite the omissions, the evening solidified Ms. Badu as a master of her craft.

Final Grade: B+