Erykah Badu & The Alchemist Drop Their Long-Awaited Album – But First, a Live Premiere

Erykah Badu, the Alchemist (Getty Images)

A Return Years in the Making

Neo-soul icon Erykah Badu is making a grand return with her first full-length studio project since 2010’s New Amerykah, Pt. 2—and only her second since 2015’s mixtape But You Caint Use My Phone.

This time, she’s joined forces with legendary hip-hop producer The Alchemist, known for his work with Mobb Deep, Earl Sweatshirt, Freddie Gibbs, and others.

A Revolutionary Rollout: Hear It Live First

Instead of dropping the album immediately on streaming platforms, Badu and Alchemist are giving fans an exclusive first listen—on the road. Their Abi & Alan Luv Iz Tour (August 8–24) will feature the album performed in full at intimate venues across North America before its official release

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The listening-party style shows—with contributions from The Cannabinoids and producers RC Williams, A1, Rob Free, S1, and Jah Born—offer a sonic fusion of digital and analog that complements Badu’s signature style Dallas Weekly foxy99.com

Official Album Drop: August 29

Following the tour’s final stop in Austin on August 24, Abi & Alan will be released on streaming platforms and for purchase worldwide on August 29 via Badu’s own Control FreaQ Records

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First Taste: “Next To You”

The lead single “Next To You” dropped in June, offering a soulful preview of what’s to come. Produced by Alchemist and dedicated to the late Prodigy of Mobb Deep, it blends neo-soul vocals with a nostalgic hip-hop beat, earning praise across the culture. The accompanying artwork and visuals sparked conversation—some criticized the use of AI—but the music continues to win over fans

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New York Post HotNewHipHop

What Makes This Moment Special

Feature: Why It Matters

First Album in 15 Years: Marks a full return for Badu in the studio

Live-First Debut: Reframes album releases, prioritizing cultural experience over streaming algorithm dominance

Deep Artistic Collaboration: Combines Badu’s neo-soul artistry with Alchemist’s gritty hip-hop production

Immersive Fan Connection: Turning concerts into exclusive listening events

Final Thoughts

What Erykah Badu and The Alchemist are doing isn’t just releasing an album—it’s redefining how music reaches the audience. Abi & Alan isn’t just another project; it’s a shared experience, crafted, performed, and delivered with soul. Whether you're lucky enough to catch a live show or settle in for the streaming release on August 29, this is one moment in music culture you won’t want to miss.