Erykah Badu Releases 'Mama's Gun' November 21; Internet Chats Scheduled With MSN.com & BET.com In Support Of Release

Business Wire, Nov 17, 2000

Entertainment Editors & Music Writers

NEW YORK--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Nov. 17, 2000

Motown recording artist, Erykah Badu, is slated to release "MAMA'S GUN" on Tuesday, November 21. The highly anticipated sophomore project includes the hit single "Bag Lady," which is currently #1 on Billboard's Hot R&B Singles Chart. "Bag Lady" has held the position for seven weeks and has secured the most weeks at #1 this year.

The 14-track CD sees Badu return to the helm as singer, songwriter and producer. Contributors to "MAMA'S GUN" include Stephen Marley, Ahmir Thompson, Betty Wright, Roy Ayers, and Roy Hargrove. "MAMA'S GUN" was executive produced by Badu and Kedar Massenburg. James Poyser served as the Associate Producer.

Currently touring Japan in support of the international simultaneous release of "MAMA'S GUN," Badu will participate in two Internet chats next week. MSN.com will host a chat with Badu on Monday, November 20 at 9:00pm (EST). BET.com will host their chat with Badu on Tuesday, November 21 at 7:00pm (EST).

The New Media campaign in support of "MAMA'S GUN" also includes downloads of various singles from the project on such on-line retail sites Amazon.com, CDNow, checkout.com, bestbuy.com, B&N.com, and getmusic.com. A special performance interlude not available on the CD can be found on Badu's website (www.erykahbadu.com), which is relaunching November 17.

"MAMA'S GUN" marks Badu's return following her multi-platinum debut in 1997 with "BADUIZM." The critically acclaimed project sold 3 million units worldwide and garnered Badu two Grammys, one American Music Award, four Soul Train Awards, four Lady of Soul Awards, and two NAACP Image Awards. In the fall of 1997, Badu released "LIVE, " which sold over 2 million units and continued to receive accolades for creativity. Earlier this year Badu received a third Grammy for her work with The Roots (Best Rap Performance by A Duo or Group for "You Got Me").

Badu returns to the U.S. at the end of November and will appear on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno on Thursday, November 30. Tour plans are in the works for early 2001.