Cleva

Erykah Badu

About Cleva

"Cleva" is the third and final single from American singer Erykah Badu's second studio album, Mama's Gun (2000). It was produced by Badu, J Dilla, and James Poyser, a member of the Soulquarians and Badu's own production team Frequency. The song peaked at number seventy-seven on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It includes Roy Ayers on vibraphone.


Year:
2000
3:45
110 
#2

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This is how I look without makeup
And with no bra my ninny's sag down low
My hair ain't never hung down to my shoulders
And it might not grow
Ya' never know

But I'm clever when I bust a rhyme
I'm cleva always on ya' mind
She's cleva and I really want to grow
But why come you're the last to know?

I got a little pot in my belly
So now a days my figure ain't so fly
My dress ain't cost nothin' but seven dollars
But I made it fly
And I'll tell ya why

But I'm clever when I bust a rhyme
I'm cleva always on ya' mind
She's cleva and I really want to grow
But why come I'm the last to know?

Alright, alright, alright
Alright, alright, alright
Alright, alright, alright
Alright, alright, alright yeah

Alright with me
Said that I'm alright with me
Said that I'm alright with me
Said that I'm alright with me
Said that I'm alright with me
Said that I'm alright with me

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Erykah Badu

Erica Abi Wright (born February 26, 1971), better known by her stage name Erykah Badu /ˈɛrɨkə bɑːˈduː/, is a Grammy Award-winning American singer-songwriter, record producer, activist and actress. Her work includes elements from R&B, hip hop and jazz. She is best known for her role in the rise of the neo soul sub-genre, and for her eccentric, cerebral musical stylings and sense of fashion. She is known as the "First Lady of Neo-Soul" or the "Queen of Neo-Soul". more »

4 fans

Written by: Erica Wright, James Jason Poyser

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Peermusic Publishing

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Album Information
"Cleva" is a song from the album called "Mama's Gun" which was released by Erykah Badu in 2000.
Song Message
In this song, Badu states proudly that she is clever, despite any physical insecurities she might be experiencing. She encourages listeners to look beyond appearances and focus on inner qualities.
Collaboration
This song was produced in collaboration with jazz bassist Ron Carter, who also contributed to several other songs on the "Mama's Gun" album.
Acclaimed Song
"Cleva" has been appreciated for its innovative blend of R&B, soul, and jazz, as well as its empowering lyrics.
Impact and Influence
Badu has stated that songs like "Cleva" reflects her personal journey and self-affirmation. The song gave her a platform to share her thoughts on beauty standards and self-worth.
Recording Process
Most of "Mama's Gun," including "Cleva," was recorded at the Electric Lady Studios in New York which once belonged to Jimi Hendrix.
Unique Style
"Cleva" showcases Badu's distinctive vocal stylings, often termed as "neo-soul". The track manages to blend a variety of influences, from jazz-infused chords to funk-laden grooves.
Legacy
Since its release, "Cleva" has been recognized as a pioneering anthem of the 'neo-soul' movement and continues to influence many contemporary artists.
Chart Performance
Even though "Cleva" was not released as a single, it nonetheless received airplay on both R&B and Jazz radio formats and contributed to the overall success of the "Mama's Gun" album.
International Acclaim
The song helped to solidify Badu's reputation beyond the US, with "Mama's Gun" reaching the top 10 of the UK Albums Chart.
Musical Arrangement
The musical arrangement in "Cleva" is known for its rich horn sections, a classic rhythm section, and Badu's smooth vocals. Additionally, the lyrics and delivery present Badu's self-awareness and confident nature.

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