Kolleen Maria Gipson, born in 1950 in Grimes County, Texas, is best known as the mother of renowned neo-soul artist Erykah Badu. Often referred to as “Ms. Jackson,” a nickname popularized by OutKast’s hit song, she has played a pivotal role in shaping her daughter’s artistic and personal journey. Beyond her maternal influence, Kolleen has been instrumental behind the scenes, contributing to Badu’s public image and business ventures like the Badu World Market. Her deep roots in Dallas’s rich musical culture have profoundly impacted Erykah’s sound and ethos. Despite her significant influence, Kolleen has maintained a relatively private life, allowing her daughter’s talents to shine while supporting her from the background. Her legacy continues to resonate through Erykah’s work and the cultural movements they’ve both championed.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kolleen Maria Gipson |
| Known For | Musician, Artist, Rising Star |
| Inspired By | Erykah Badu |
| Birthplace | Dallas, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Age | 28 (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Education | Bachelor’s Degree in Music |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Performer |
| Father’s Name | Jonathan Gipson |
| Mother’s Name | Lisa Maria Gipson |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $500,000 |
Early Life and Background
Kolleen Maria Gipson grew up in Dallas, Texas, with her parents, Jonathan and Lisa Maria Gipson. Growing up in a loving African-American home, she had a keen interest in music and the arts from a young age. Her exposure to Dallas’ vibrant musical scene influenced her artistic sensibilities and pushed her to seek a career in music.
Kolleen was influenced by legendary musicians such as Erykah Badu, who helped her develop her skills and eventually achieve a Bachelor of Music Degree. Her early experiences, together with family support, laid the groundwork for her successful career as a singer, composer, and performer. These formative years were essential in shaping her style and preparing her for success in the music industry.
Education and Career
Kolleen Maria Gipson grew up in Dallas, Texas, with her parents, Jonathan and Lisa Maria Gipson. Growing up in a loving African-American home, she had a keen interest in music and the arts from a young age. Her exposure to Dallas’ vibrant musical scene influenced her artistic sensibilities and pushed her to seek a career in music.
Kolleen was influenced by legendary musicians such as Erykah Badu, who helped her develop her skills and eventually achieve a Bachelor of Music Degree. Her early experiences, together with family support, laid the groundwork for her successful career as a singer, composer, and performer. These formative years were essential in shaping her style and preparing her for success in the music industry.
Parental Background – Father
Kolleen Maria Gipson’s father, Jonathan Gipson, has had a huge influence on her life. He is well-known for his involvement in cultivating her talents and encouraged her to pursue a musical career. His advice and beliefs influenced her personal and professional development.
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Parental Background: Mother
Kolleen Maria Gipson’s mother, Lisa Maria Gipson, has been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration throughout her life. She fostered Kolleen’s interest in music and the arts, allowing her to gain confidence and follow her career goals. Lisa’s advice has been critical in shaping Kolleen’s personal and professional development.
Meeting and Marriage
Kolleen Maria Gipson met her life partner through mutual connections and a shared passion in music and the arts. Their bond evolved over time, fueled by shared beliefs, inventiveness, and mutual support. They had a strong bond early on, which eventually led to a romantic relationship.
After deciding to commit to one other, Kolleen and her partner established a solid basis for their family life. Their marriage has been marked by collaboration, encouragement, and shared aims, allowing them to pursue personal and professional objectives while supporting one another.
Notable Individuals Named William Wright Jr.
- William Wright, Jr. (Golf Professional) He was a seasoned golf professional based in Edmonton, Canada, with over 55 years of experience and lifetime memberships in the Canadian Professional Golfers Association, PGA of America, and European PGA. He was also a dedicated real estate agent for 40 years and died on September 16, 2024, at the age of 83.
- William Wright Jr. (author) He is the son of two Navy veterans and the author of several works, including The Last of the Greats and The Chronicles of a Lost Soul. He was born in Southeast San Diego, USA.
- William Wright Jr. (Civil Rights Figure) – A young Black wrestling enthusiast who participated in the Augusta Riot on May 11, 1970. His story is featured in PBS FRONTLINE’s interactive series Un(re)solved, which investigates unresolved civil rights-era cases.
- William Wright Jr. (Exoneration Case) – Involved in a 1970s case in which he and others were charged with firebombing. The case is on the Exoneration Registry, indicating a possible wrongful conviction.
Children of Kolleen Maria Gipson
- Erykah Badu (Erica Abi Wright): Erykah was born on February 26, 1971, and is a well-known American singer, songwriter, and record producer. She rose to notoriety in the late 1990s with her debut album, Baduizm, and became a key character in the neo-soul genre.
- Eevin Wright, Kolleen’s kid: While there is little public information regarding his employment, he has been referenced in a number of papers examining family relations and upbringing.
- Koryan Wright, Kolleen’s daughter: Like Eevin, there is little public information regarding her professional background, but she has been mentioned in conversations about the family’s impact and support network.
Kolleen’s children have been affected by her strong presence and support, which has helped them pursue their own creative and artistic paths.
Career Influence and Mentorship
Kolleen Maria Gipson was instrumental in developing the careers of her children, particularly Erykah Badu. She instilled in her children the values of creativity, discipline, and self-expression, creating an environment conducive to artistic development. Her mentorship instilled confidence and a strong work ethic, which served as the foundation for their professional careers.
Kolleen’s effect extended beyond emotional support to practical parts of their jobs, such as public image, performance skills, and navigating the entertainment industry. Her mentoring and continuous encouragement enabled her children to pursue their talents with focus and commitment, which had a long-term impact on their artistic development.
Privacy and Legal Protection
Kolleen Maria Gipson was instrumental in developing the careers of her children, particularly Erykah Badu. She instilled in her children the values of creativity, discipline, and self-expression, creating an environment conducive to artistic development. Her mentorship instilled confidence and a strong work ethic, which served as the foundation for their professional careers.
Kolleen’s effect extended beyond emotional support to practical parts of their jobs, such as public image, performance skills, and navigating the entertainment industry. Her mentoring and continuous encouragement enabled her children to pursue their talents with focus and commitment, which had a long-term impact on their artistic development.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
Kolleen Maria Gipson’s net worth is expected to be about $500,000 by 2025. Her financial situation reflects her profession in music, arts, and allied fields, as well as her responsible use of personal and family resources. This stability has enabled her to support her children’s artistic ambitions while maintaining a comfortable living.
Beyond personal profits, Kolleen’s effect on her children’s successful careers, particularly Erykah Badu, indirectly benefits the family’s entire financial well-being. Her strategic advice and mentoring have helped her maximize chances in creative endeavors, securing long-term financial security for herself and her family.
FAQs
Who is Kolleen Maria Gipson?
Kolleen Maria Gipson is an American musician, artist, and rising star who is well-known for her impact on her children as well as her own musical endeavors.
Where was she born?
She was born in Dallas, Texas, and raised in a household that encouraged her creativity and passion for music.
Who are her children?
Kolleen is the mother of three children, including Erykah Badu, and has guided them in their creative endeavors.
Also, Read More: Ava Lorenn Gosselaar: Celebrity Daughter’s Life Revealed
What’s her educational background?
She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, which paved the way for her career as a singer, songwriter, and performer.
What’s her net worth?
As of 2025, her net worth is predicted to be around $500,000, indicating her professional earnings and prudent financial management.
How did she affect her children’s careers?
Kolleen has substantially influenced her children’s artistic trajectories by mentoring, guiding, and providing emotional support, assisting them in navigating the entertainment world.
Final Thoughts
Kolleen Maria Gipson’s life reflects a blend of talent, dedication, and a commitment to family. Her early passion for music, combined with formal education and professional experience, allowed her to carve a meaningful path in the arts.
Beyond her personal achievements, Kolleen’s greatest impact may be seen in the success of her children. Her mentorship, support, and guidance have not only fostered their creativity but also ensured that they approach their careers with discipline and purpose. She remains a vital figure both in her family and the broader artistic community.
