Toni Braxton is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame in the 1990s with her powerful and soulful voice. Born in Maryland in 1967, Braxton began her career singing in a church choir, and later formed a group with her sisters called The Braxtons. In 1993, she released her self-titled debut album, which included the hit single “Another Sad Love Song”.
Braxton’s music is characterized by its smooth, R&B sound, blending elements of soul, pop, and hip-hop. She has released numerous hit songs throughout her career, including “Un-Break My Heart,” “Breathe Again,” and “He Wasn’t Man Enough.”
Braxton has won several Grammy Awards throughout her career, and has sold over 70 million records worldwide. In addition to her music career, Braxton has also acted in several films and television shows, including a starring role in the Broadway production of “Aida” in 2003.
Braxton’s legacy as an icon of R&B and soul music is undeniable, and her powerful vocals and emotive performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. She has been recognized for her contributions to music and popular culture with numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 2014.
1. Take This Ring
“Take This Ring” is a soulful ballad by American R&B singer Toni Braxton, released in 2002. The song is about the end of a romantic relationship and the realization that the love has faded away. Braxton’s heartfelt vocals are filled with emotion and vulnerability as she pleads with her former lover to take back the engagement ring that symbolizes their broken promise. The melody is simple yet powerful, enhanced by the smooth production and the use of background vocals. “Take This Ring” is a moving song that showcases Braxton’s impressive vocal range and her ability to convey deep feelings through her music.
2. Hands Tied
“Hands Tied” is a song by Toni Braxton that was released in 2010 on her album “Pulse”. The song features Braxton’s smooth and soulful vocals over a mid-tempo R&B beat, delivering lyrics that reflect on the complex emotions of a passionate and complicated relationship. The song became a fan favorite, with its memorable chorus, sultry sound, and Braxton’s powerful delivery making it a standout track on the album. “Hands Tied” showcases Braxton’s enduring ability to create music that is both emotional and powerful, cementing her status as an icon of the R&B genre.
3. Another Sad Love Song
“Another Sad Love Song” is a sultry ballad by Toni Braxton that tells the story of a woman struggling to move on from a toxic relationship. With her powerful yet soulful voice, Braxton delivers a heart-wrenching performance, pouring out her emotions as she sings of her pain and longing for a love that’s gone. The song’s smooth R&B melody, complete with a captivating piano riff, perfectly complements the lyrics and Braxton’s vocals. Released in 1993, “Another Sad Love Song” became Braxton’s second top-ten hit on the US Billboard Hot 100, solidifying her place as a rising R&B star.
4. I Love Me Some Him
“I Love Me Some Him” is a soulful R&B ballad by Toni Braxton that was released in 1997 as the third single from her second album “Secrets.” The song tells the story of a woman who has been hurt in the past but finds healing and comfort in the love of her man. With its smooth melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Braxton’s powerful vocals, “I Love Me Some Him” became a popular hit, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song has since become a fan favorite and a staple in Braxton’s live performances.
5. I Belong to You
“I Belong to You” is a song by Toni Braxton that was released in 1994 on her self-titled debut album. The song features Braxton’s smooth and soulful vocals over a slow and sensual R&B beat, delivering lyrics that reflect on the intensity and passion of a romantic relationship. The song became a hit for Braxton, showcasing her powerful vocal range and emotive delivery. Its memorable chorus, understated melody, and Braxton’s passionate performance continue to make it a classic of the R&B genre, and a testament to Toni Braxton’s enduring talent as a singer and songwriter.
6. Long As I Live
“Long As I Live” is a soulful R&B ballad by American singer Toni Braxton. The song explores the pain of a lost love and the struggle to move on. Braxton’s signature sultry vocals are on full display as she sings about holding onto the memories of a past relationship while trying to let go. The instrumentation features a simple yet powerful piano melody and a smooth bassline, perfectly complementing Braxton’s emotive delivery. The song received critical acclaim for its raw and honest lyrics, as well as Braxton’s impeccable vocal performance. It was released as the lead single from her eighth studio album “Sex & Cigarettes” in 2018.
7. Breathe Again
“Breathe Again” is a powerful ballad by Toni Braxton that speaks about finding the strength to move on after a heartbreak. Braxton’s emotive vocals are perfectly complemented by the song’s slow, soulful melody and the stirring orchestration that builds to a dramatic climax. The lyrics speak to the pain of holding onto a love that is no longer there, and the need to finally let go in order to find happiness again. The song was a massive commercial success, earning Braxton a Grammy Award and cementing her status as one of the leading voices in contemporary R&B.
8. He Wasn’t Man Enough
“He Wasn’t Man Enough” is a song by Toni Braxton that was released in 2000 on her album “The Heat”. The song features Braxton’s powerful and soulful vocals over a groovy R&B beat, delivering lyrics that reflect on the experience of a woman who has discovered her partner’s infidelity. The song became a massive hit for Braxton, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, and has since become one of her most iconic and enduring songs. Its catchy hook, strong vocals, and bold message continue to make it a classic of the R&B and pop genres.
9. Let It Flow
“Let It Flow” is a soulful R&B ballad by Toni Braxton, released in 1996. The song was written by Braxton along with Babyface and produced by Babyface. It features a slow, steady rhythm that emphasizes the passionate lyrics and Braxton’s signature smooth and sultry vocals. The song speaks of letting go of the past and moving forward, with the lyrics encouraging the listener to “let it flow, let it go.” The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 and the top 10 on the Billboard R&B chart.
10. Un-Break My Heart
“Un-Break My Heart” is a song by Toni Braxton that was released in 1996 on her album “Secrets”. The song features Braxton’s powerful and emotive vocals over a dramatic, orchestral sound, delivering lyrics that reflect on the heartbreak and pain of a failed relationship. The song became a massive hit for Braxton, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, and has since become one of her most beloved and iconic songs. Its memorable chorus, soaring melody, and Braxton’s passionate performance continue to make it a classic of the R&B and pop genres, and a testament to Toni Braxton’s enduring talent as a singer and songwriter.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
