Neo-soul sister Erykah Badus MySpace page lists her origin as Phunkland, United States. Were not sure how far that is from Dallas, but were pretty sure its a cool place. Perhaps its part of New Amerykah the name she gave her latest album (officially, New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)) which she released on her birthday, Feb. 26. (That would make her a Pisces lady.) The multiple Grammy winner with the buttery, jazzy voice frequently collaborates with musical luminaries of the hip-hop world, but isnt afraid to adapt multiple styles into her smooth rhythms, this time around, shes in 70s soul mode. Even the album art evokes the age of Shaft and Super Fly. Badus equally known for lyrics that might range from obtuse poetry to in-your-face directness, and for her eclectic sense of style, her early image was that of a Nubian princess, with huge headwraps hiding her ginormous fro. Motherhood may have settled her some, wardrobe-wise (shes got a 10-year-old son with Outkasts Andre 3000 and a 3-year-old daughter with rapper the D.O.C.), but she still comes off as a regal lady, whether shes acting (Blues Brothers 2000, Cider House Rules) or crooning a retro soul number like Honey. What can fans expect next from her? Part Two, of course. She plans to release New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) this summer.