Erykah badu Kicks Off ‘Automatic Slim’ Tour with Stellar Hollywood Bowl Performance
Los Angeles, CA – Erykah badu commenced The Return of Automatic Slim tour on Friday, October 4th, 2025, at a sold-out Hollywood bowl, marking the 25th anniversary of her landmark album, Mama’s Gun. The evening unfolded as a mesmerizing journey through the neo-soul soundscape,captivating an audience eager to celebrate a quarter-century of musical innovation.
A Night of Contrasts: westside Gunn Opens for Badu
The concert began with an energetic set by rapper Westside Gunn, who commanded the stage approximately 35 minutes before Badu’s arrival. While some attendees initially appeared more focused on the headliner, Gunn’s performance resonated with enthusiasts of the Griselda Records collective and garnered new recognition from those unfamiliar with his work. He expressed gratitude for the prospect to share the stage with badu before concluding his set.
Badu’s Enchanting Entrance and ‘mama’s Gun’ Rendition
As the stage darkened, a single red light illuminated the platform, and Badu emerged enveloped in smoke. She was dressed in a striking ensemble – a black hat with a red scarf, a leather top, and a flowing white skirt. The performance commenced with “Penitentiary Philosophy,” initiating a complete run-through of Mama’s Gun, as intended by the artist.
Badu’s vocals were described as powerful and captivating, enhanced by a shimmering spotlight that reflected off her gold-filled mouth as she engaged with the audience.
Musical Interludes and Homages
During “cleva,” a tribute to the late Roy Ayers, Badu seamlessly integrated donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers’ “Encourage Yourself,” transforming the Hollywood Bowl into an atmosphere of collective upliftment. A costume change revealed a brown dress beneath the leather top, accented with a red belt. She also gave a shout-out to MF DOOM and acknowledged the presence of producer Alchemist.
Spoken Word and Intimate Reflections
A segment of free verse, spoken word poetry delved into the concept of a “black box,” exploring themes of sexuality and social commentary. This transitioned seamlessly into a performance of “booty,” a track initially skipped in the setlist. Renditions of “Annie Don’t wear No Panties” and a preview of a forthcoming collaboration with Westside Gunn on the Abi & Alan album were also presented.
Honoring Musical Legacy and Connecting with Fans
Badu dedicated a special moment to her longtime backup singer, Durand Bernarr, recognizing his talent and Grammy nomination. She also connected with an audience member named Vanessa, serenading her with a spontaneous rendition of Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, Warren G, and Kurupt’s “Ain’t No Fun (If The Homies Can’t Have None).” the concert concluded with “Green Eyes,” eliciting a standing ovation from the captivated crowd.
Key Moments of the Evening
| Performance element | Description |
|---|---|
| Opening Act | Westside Gunn energized the crowd with a 35-minute set. |
| Album Focus | A complete performance of Erykah Badu’s Mama’s Gun. |
| Special Alex Reeds/Tributes | Homages to Roy Ayers, MF DOOM, and Durand Bernarr. |
| Audience Interaction | A personalized serenade for a fan named Vanessa. |
Did You Know? Erykah Badu’s Mama’s Gun is often cited as a defining album of the neo-soul genre,blending jazz,soul,and hip-hop influences.
Pro Tip: When attending a concert, consider checking the artist’s social media for potential setlist spoilers and special guest announcements.
The Enduring Influence of Erykah badu
Erykah Badu has remained a meaningful cultural force since her emergence in the late 1990s. Her music has consistently challenged conventions and her artistic vision continues to inspire a new generation of musicians. According to Billboard, in 2023, Badu’s catalog saw a 15% increase in streaming activity, demonstrating her continued relevance in the modern music landscape. Her ability to meld introspection with social consciousness sets her apart.
the impact of “Mama’s Gun” extends beyond musical circles, influencing fashion, poetry, and visual arts. The album’s exploration of love,loss,and identity resonates with listeners on a profoundly personal level. With an estimated global following of over 5 million across social media platforms as of late 2024,Badu’s influence is undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Erykah Badu
- What is erykah Badu’s most famous album? Mama’s Gun is widely considered her most critically acclaimed and commercially accomplished album.
- Who opened for Erykah Badu on The Return of automatic slim tour? Rapper Westside Gunn opened for her at the Hollywood Bowl show.
- What genre does Erykah Badu’s music fall into? Badu’s music is primarily classified as neo-soul, but also incorporates elements of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop.
- Is erykah Badu currently touring? Yes, she is currently on The Return of Automatic Slim tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of Mama’s Gun.
- What is the meaning of the album Mama’s Gun? It represents a pivotal moment in neo-soul music, showcasing Badu’s unique lyrical style and musical innovation.
what were your favorite moments from the concert? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
