AMG Review of Live

Leo Stanley
All Music Guide

Conventional wisdom dictates that an artist should not release a live album as her second record, especially if it follows the debut by a matter of months. However, Erykah Badu is not a conventional artist and Live is not a conventional live album. While her debut, Baduizm, earned strong reviews and healthy sales, her concerts became equally popular and she became known as a powerhouse live performer. Live solidifies that reputation, delivering soulful, gritty versions of cuts from Baduizm, a few covers, and the spectacular new single, "Tyrone." Not only does it illustrate the depths of Badu's talents, but Live is as strong and captivating as Baduizm.