"Baduizm" established Badu as a popular artist and received positive reviews from critics, who viewed the record as a return to the simplicity of early '70s soul. "Vibe" magazine's Karen R. Good called the record "a conduit of awakening of something dark, familiar and long slept," while John Bush from AllMusic felt it was innovative primarily for its sound, "heavier hip-hop beats over organic, conscientious soul music." Badu's particular style of singing drew many comparisons to Billie Holiday. "Entertainment Weekly" said Badu echoed Holiday in "her phrasing and cadence," while Greg Kot from the "Chicago Tribune" commented: "Rather than merely mimicking Holiday, Badu offers a canny update of the socially conscious soul of the early '70s with her mid-tempo grooves and sultry, conversational vocals." In the "Los Angeles Times", Robert Hilburn wrote: "Freely mixing musical eras and inspirations (Billie Holiday to Stevie Wonder, jazz to hip-hop), Badu combines supper-club sophistication with an artistic vision as unique and independent" as Prince in the '80s. Writing for "Rolling Stone", Miles Marshall Lewis stated: ""Baduizm" showcases the heart and soul of a bohemian B-girl who happens to have an effortless jazz swing."