With her fifth album, new amerykah, out in February, the sultry Soulquarian ponders some conventional male beliefs

As told to Saidah Petrie Men say: Telling my lady I’ve cheated on her would only hurt her. Living with the guilt is my punishment.

Erykah says: I agree with that in some cases because some people aren’t capable of forgiving completely. Whether he tells her or not, it’ll come out at some point. At the same time, I think it’s very cowardly and deceitful. The hardest thing is lying and then coming back and telling the truth. I used to do that, though, all the time. I wouldn’t now, because I’ve tried truth, and it’s freedom.

Men say: I can’t be with someone who makes more money than I do.

Erykah says: I don’t know if they truly believe that, because men enjoy being spoiled and pampered. Yet, when the gender roles become reversed, they have a tendency to become resentful. It depends on who you are as a man, how you feel about yourself, and how you feel about your woman. ’Cause a good woman can change any bullshit to some beauty-broke or rich.

Men say: If I always pay for our dates, I should feel entitled to something fterwards.

Erykah says: I don’t think anyone should ever expect “something.” He should be straight-forward with what he’s offering, so I have an option of whether or not I really want to take what he’s giving me. Also, it’s always quite rude to give a gift in order to receive one. ’Cause I just might want to give it to him, but let me know what’s happening! Put me in the mix. It shouldn’t just be between him and his money.

Men say: Black women have really high standards when it comes to relationships.

Erykah says: If high standards are being expected to be mature, be kind, be generous, and be honest, then yes, we do have them, because we should. In lieu of what, though? However, I do understand the typical “white woman” stereotype of “Oh, she ain’t gonna say nothing.” Every black woman doesn’t feel that way; and to assume that they do is not ignorant, but a little inexperienced.



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