Erykah Badu and The Alchemist Announce Joint Album for August 28, 2026
Neo-soul figurehead Erykah Badu and hip-hop producer The Alchemist have announced a full collaborative album, set for digital release on Friday, August 28, 2026 via Control FREAQ Records / Young Recordings. It marks Badu's first new music project in 11 years and her first proper studio recording in 16 years. The lead single, "Witch Doctor," is streaming now. The announcement was shared by Beggars Taiwan, which handles distribution for the release.
Release details
- Release date: Friday, August 28, 2026
- Format: Digital release
- Label: Control FREAQ Records / Young Recordings
- Lead single: "Witch Doctor" (out now)
- Album title and full tracklist: not yet announced
- Single link: abiandalan.ffm.to/witchdoctor
About the lead single
"Witch Doctor" draws on the mystique and labels long attached to Badu, working through how narratives get created, spread, and believed. The production sits on a hypnotic rhythm layered with psychedelic keys and loosely stretched textures.
Badu's vocal delivery stays sharp, wry, and direct, with the song centered on reclaiming the power to define herself.
Where they stand
Erykah Badu has been a central figure in neo-soul since the late 1990s, and in recent years has mostly appeared through live performances and guest features rather than releasing a full studio album. The Alchemist, known for his hip-hop production work, has maintained a steady, prolific output collaborating with numerous rappers.
This marks the first time the two have co-billed an entire album together; production credit details have not yet been announced.