Worldwide Underground is the third studio album by American singer Erykah Badu, released September 16, 2003 by Motown Records. Recording sessions for the album took place during 2003, following Badu's period of writer's block and her performing on the Frustrated Artist Tour. Production was handled primarily by production group Freakquency, which consists of Badu, Rashad Smith, James Poyser, and RC Williams. Prominently incorporating hip hop and funk elements, the album features an unconventional musical structure and minimal songwriting concerning hip hop culture, love, ghetto life, and gang culture. The albums features appearances from rappers Dead Prez, Common, Queen Latifah, Bahamadia, and singer Angie Stone.