Akili Ni Mali - A Tribute to Erykah Badu

Akili Ni Mali makes her Chicago debut in "Inspired by Fat Belly Bella", a tribute to Erykah Badu.

Akili Ni Mali is a Chicago-based professional actor and recording artist whose sound blends R&B, soul, jazz, and pop. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Jazmine Sullivan, Erykah Badu, Rachelle Ferrell, Sade, and India Arie, Akili’s music is rooted in rich vocal expression and emotive storytelling. She released her debut EP Breathe in 2020, followed by singles Good Life (2020), Right (2021), Sold (2022), Lana Del Rey (2023), 9–5 (2024), the Changes EP (2024), and most recently Ick and S’éloigner (2025).

Akili Ni Malihas been drawing inspiration from Erykah Badu since she started writing music at 12 years old. She presents a high-energy tribute that showcases her depth and versatility, reimagining Badu's catalog through a soulful lens of R&B, jazz, and classic hip-hop. Her work is a celebration of the "Queen of…