# Erykah Badu on Urban Legends and Her Unique Incense Venture
Erykah Badu, the enigmatic neo-soul icon, recently opened up about the urban legends surrounding her mystique and the inspiration behind her distinctive incense product. Known for her eclectic aesthetic, Badu has long been associated with candles and incense, elements that naturally weave into her personal and artistic world.
In a candid interview, she addressed the infamous rumor that her allure is so powerful it causes men to “change gods and jobs,” a legend that extends, as she humorously noted, to women, children, and even animals. With a playful tone, Badu expanded on this myth, suggesting it’s not just about physical attraction but something deeper—a mental connection that resides “between my ears” rather than “between my thighs.”
This urban legend, which she neither created nor fully endorses, has followed her throughout her career. Badu recounted anecdotes of people warning others not to look her in the eye, as if her gaze alone could disrupt lives or “break up happy homes.”
She shared a funny story about a friend, Boris, who emerged sweating and flustered after meeting her for a vinyl autograph, illustrating how the myth amplifies her presence. Badu compared this phenomenon to similar rumors about other powerful women in entertainment like Janet Jackson and Nicki Minaj, suggesting that such tales often stem from being a fearless, creative force. Her unapologetic nature and “stocky” spirit, as she put it, contribute to the mystique that fuels these stories.
Turning the conversation to her entrepreneurial side, Badu explained why she chose incense as a product to sell, unlike other entertainers who market liquor, marijuana, or shoes. Incense aligns with her identity; it’s an extension of the sensory experience she’s always cultivated. The name and scent of her incense playfully nod to the urban legend about her.
With a mischievous twist, she revealed the inspiration behind the fragrance, claiming that “most guys say my vagina smells like strawberries and gunpowder.” She aimed to duplicate this intriguing blend, hoping to capture the essence of a “wild wild west” vibe. While she jokingly distanced herself from knowing where the strawberry element comes from, Badu confirmed her hands-on role in crafting the incense, even if the legend itself “made itself.”
The product has been a hit, selling out multiple times, though fans in the interview lamented their struggle to purchase it. Badu graciously gifted some to her interviewers, ensuring even Boris received a few sticks to “sweat in the room.” She emphasized her joy in creating and sharing the incense, viewing it as a gift for everyone to enjoy.
Beyond the humor and myths, Badu’s discussion highlighted her ability to transform personal narratives into tangible art, whether through music or products. Her incense isn’t just a scent—it’s a piece of her legend, a quirky yet intimate connection to a woman whose influence, both real and mythical, continues to captivate.