Weighted Identities: Unpacking the Baggage of Expectations | Bag Lady | Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu's song "Bag Lady" is a thought-provoking commentary on societal pressures and expectations placed upon women. Released in 1997 as part of her debut album "Baduizm", the song tells the story of a woman struggling to make ends meet while juggling multiple responsibilities.

The lyrics describe a woman who has become so consumed by her daily struggles that she's lost touch with her own identity and sense of self-worth. The chorus, sung in Badu's distinctive jazz-infused R&B style, asks "Why are you messin' 'round, bag lady?" – an inquiry into the reasons behind this woman's constant striving and sacrificing for others.

Throughout the song, Badu weaves together vignettes of everyday women's experiences, painting a vivid picture of the weight they carry. She sings about the emotional toll of being "the glue that holds it all together" and the frustration of feeling like she's constantly running on empty. The song is not just a critique of societal expectations but also an exploration of the internalized shame and self-doubt many women face.

The term "bag lady" itself has become synonymous with the struggles faced by working-class women, particularly those of color, who have to navigate multiple roles and responsibilities simultaneously. Badu's song is a powerful reminder that these women are not just victims of circumstance but also survivors of systemic oppression.

Ultimately, "Bag Lady" is a call to action, urging listeners to reexamine the societal pressure cooker that often leads women down a path of self-sacrifice and exhaustion. With its poignant lyrics and soaring vocals, the song has become an anthem for many women who have found solace in Badu's message of empowerment and liberation.