Erykah Badu — NPR Tiny Desk, 2018

A neo-soul icon, Erykah Badu takes over NPR’s cramped desk for a now-cult Tiny Desk Concert, a live session filmed in the American public radio’s studios in Washington. In this intimate, no-frills format, the Texan singer confirms her status as a queen of contemporary soul: sovereign phrasing, deep groove and magnetic charisma that turn the smallest space into a sonic jewel case. The performance, praised for its almost spiritual atmosphere, gathers “Rimshot” (from “Baduizm”) and “Green Eyes” (from “Mama’s Gun”), carried by a nuanced backing band. This multi-song live recording illustrates the power of stripped-back music: every breath, every vocal inflection takes on singular relief. For fans of live soul, neo-soul and intimate sessions, this filmed live concert offers a rare encounter with a major artist, in one of the most cherished formats of the global music scene. An essential document for grasping Erykah Badu’s aura on stage.