Erykah Badu has three children, and each one carries a unique name and story. The youngest is Mars Merkaba Thedford. She was born in 2009 and has grown up largely away from the public spotlight. While her older siblings have appeared more often online or in media, Mars has remained private. This article shares the clear and verified facts about her life, her parents, and her place in the Badu family.
You can also read more about her family on this site. Explore the pages for her older brother Seven Sirius Benjamin, her sister Puma Sabti Curry, her grandmother Kolleen Maria Gipson, and the main Erykah Badu family hub.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mars Merkaba Thedford |
| Born | February 1, 2009 (Dallas, Texas) |
| Age (2026) | 17 |
| Mother | Erykah Badu |
| Father | Jay Electronica |
| Half-Siblings | Seven Sirius Benjamin and Puma Sabti Curry |
| Known For | Youngest child of Erykah Badu |
Birth and Early Life
Mars Merkaba Thedford was born on February 1, 2009, at 1:30 p.m. in Dallas, Texas. Her father, Jay Electronica, publicly shared the exact time of her birth. Erykah Badu also documented parts of the experience and later spoke about the moment with warmth.
The name “Mars Merkaba” carries spiritual and symbolic meaning. “Mars” refers to the Roman god of war, while “Merkaba” comes from a Hebrew word often linked to a spiritual chariot or light body. The name fits the creative and thoughtful style that Erykah Badu has shown with all her children’s names.
Mars spent much of her childhood in Dallas. Her mother has described her as a creative and patient young person who enjoys visual arts, acting, playing the bass, comedy, and dancing. At the same time, Mars has stayed mostly private and does not maintain a public social media presence.
Parents
Mother:
Erykah Badu Erykah Badu is a highly respected neo-soul singer, songwriter, and actress. She has raised Mars while continuing her music career and also working as a doula. Badu has often spoken about the importance of motherhood and the strong women in her family.
Father:
Jay Electronica Jay Electronica (born Timothy Elpadaro Thedford) is a rapper and producer known for his thoughtful and spiritual approach to hip-hop. He and Erykah Badu were in a relationship for several years. Their relationship ended around 2009–2010, shortly after Mars was born. Jay has remained part of his daughter’s life and has shared occasional updates about her.
Siblings
Mars has two older half-siblings on her mother’s side:
- Seven Sirius Benjamin – born in 1997, son of Erykah Badu and André 3000
- Puma Sabti Curry – born in 2004, daughter of Erykah Badu and The D.O.C.
The three siblings have grown up with a shared creative environment. Erykah Badu has encouraged artistic expression in all her children while also protecting their privacy, especially for the youngest.
Personality and Interests
Public information about Mars remains limited because she and her family prefer a low profile. However, her mother has shared positive descriptions over the years. In one birthday message, Erykah Badu called Mars an amazing visual artist, actor, bass player, comedian, dancer, and student. She also praised her daughter’s patient and creative spirit.
These comments suggest that Mars has developed a wide range of interests. Whether she will pursue a public career in entertainment remains unknown. For now, she continues her education and private creative activities.
Family Context
Mars belongs to a family that values independence, creativity, and spiritual exploration. Her mother has built a long career while raising three children with three different partners. Despite the different fathers, Erykah Badu has worked to keep the children connected.
Mars is the only child of Jay Electronica, which gives her a unique place in both of her parents’ lives. As she moves through her teenage years, she continues to grow under the care of a supportive and artistic family.
Why People Search for Mars Merkaba Thedford
Fans of Erykah Badu often want to know more about her children. Because Mars is the youngest and the most private, people look for basic facts such as her age, her father’s name, and her relationship to her siblings. This article gathers the most reliable public information in one place.
For more stories about celebrity families, you can also read about Francesca Eastwood, Morgan Eastwood, Annie D’Angelo, and Lupillo Rivera’s family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mars Merkaba Thedford?
She is the youngest daughter of singer Erykah Badu and rapper Jay Electronica.
When was Mars Merkaba Thedford born?
She was born on February 1, 2009, in Dallas, Texas.
How old is Mars Merkaba Thedford?
She is 17 years old as of 2026.
Who is Mars Merkaba Thedford’s father?
Her father is the rapper Jay Electronica.
Does Mars have siblings?
Yes. She has two older half-siblings: Seven Sirius Benjamin and Puma Sabti Curry.
Is Mars Merkaba Thedford active on social media?
No. She keeps a private life and does not maintain a public social media presence.
Sources Information comes from reliable public reports, including statements from her parents and major entertainment outlets. Last updated: August 2026.
