Erykah Badu: Call & Response Issue #42

By Venus Zine Readers
Published: April 5th, 2010 | 4:10pm

On March 30, Erykah Badu returned with her latest album, New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) on Universal Motown Records. Here, she answers your questions about veganism, film roles, and touring with three kids.

After seeing you in Block Party and The Cider House Rules, I was wondering if you have any new film roles coming up? – Tiffany from Portland

“I do, yes. My first love is acting. As a matter of fact, I majored in theater in college and I really thought I would become an actor before a recording artist.”

As a vegan, what advice could you give to other people who might want to adopt this lifestyle? – Megan from Chicago

“I eat like a vegan for the most part. I don’t eat any sugar, dairy, or processed foods to the best of my ability, but I’m not trying to win an award for the best vegan. I’m just trying to be as healthy as I can for myself and my family. I suggest that you, first of all, make sure you’re getting the right amount of nutrients. Vitally, there’s no way you can beat being energized by foods that agree with your blood type.”

How does your new album pick up where New Amerykah Part One left off? – Sam from Omaha

“On Part One, the last song is called ‘Telephone,’ and it’s a beautifully orchestrated piece which deviates from the static/electronic/social/political concept that was the album’s theme. You’ll see that ‘Telephone’ bleeds right into the first song on Part Two.”

What’s on your iPod these days? – Alex from Chicago

“I can’t believe you’re asking me that; I have 3,333 songs on my iPod! Right now, though, I’m listening a lot to my past albums because it helps me in my musical process. After all, I’m only in competition with my last level and it gives me that scenery I need to evolve.”

I’m excited to see you at Lilith Fair! What is touring like with three kids? – Erin from Ann Arbor

“It’s a lot of work. But I take my time, and I’m as patient with myself as I am with my three children. I’m breastfeeding Mars, who’s one; on the road, I homeschool Puma who’s five; and Seven, who’s 12, is such a great big brother. Plus, I have a lot of support from a really great team of people, including my mother who travels with me.”