Toni Braxton is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her distinctive contralto voice and emotive ballads. Emerging in the early 1990s, Braxton gained fame with her self-titled debut album in 1993, which featured hits like “Another Sad Love Song” and “Breathe Again.” Her music often blends R&B, pop, and soul, and she has earned multiple Grammy Awards for her work.
Throughout her career, Braxton has released several successful albums, including “Secrets” (1996) and “The Heat” (2000), and has been recognized for her powerful performances and heartfelt lyrics. In addition to her music career, she has ventured into acting and has been involved in various philanthropic efforts.
1. I Don’t Want To
“I Don’t Want To” is a single by Toni Braxton from her 2002 album “More Than a Woman.” The song is a poignant ballad that highlights Braxton’s powerful and emotive vocal delivery.
In “I Don’t Want To,” Braxton sings about the pain of a difficult relationship and the reluctance to let go despite the hurt. The track combines heartfelt lyrics with a smooth, soulful melody, reflecting her signature style. The song showcases her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, making it a standout track on the album.
2. Seven Whole Days
“Seven Whole Days” is a hit single by Toni Braxton from her 1993 self-titled debut album. Written by Kenneth Pratt and produced by Babyface, the song is a smooth R&B ballad that highlights Braxton’s emotive vocal performance.
The track explores themes of longing and emotional vulnerability, focusing on the experience of missing a loved one. With its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Seven Whole Days” became one of Braxton’s early successes and contributed to establishing her as a significant voice in R&B. The song’s combination of poignant storytelling and Braxton’s powerful delivery made it a memorable part of her debut album.
3. Hit the Freeway
“Hit the Freeway” is a track by Toni Braxton featuring rapper Loon, from her 2002 album “More Than a Woman.” The song is an upbeat R&B track with a catchy hook and a blend of Braxton’s sultry vocals with Loon’s rap verses.
In “Hit the Freeway,” Braxton sings about moving on from a troubled relationship and reclaiming her independence. The song’s energetic production and empowering lyrics make it a standout track on the album, reflecting her versatility as an artist. The collaboration with Loon adds a contemporary edge to the song, combining R&B with hip-hop influences.
4. Un-Break My Heart
“Un-Break My Heart” is one of Toni Braxton’s most iconic ballads, released as a single from her 1996 album “Secrets.” Written by Diane Warren and produced by David Foster, the song is a powerful and emotional plea for the return of a lost love.
The track showcases Braxton’s deep, soulful contralto voice and features a dramatic orchestral arrangement that complements its heartfelt lyrics. “Un-Break My Heart” became a major hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and earning several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Its impact and enduring popularity have solidified it as a classic in Braxton’s discography.
5. You’re Makin’ Me High
“You’re Makin’ Me High” is a hit single by Toni Braxton from her 1996 album “Secrets.” Written by Babyface and produced by Babyface and Antonio “L.A.” Reid, the song is an upbeat R&B track with a sultry, smooth sound.
The song’s lyrics describe the exhilarating feelings of infatuation and attraction, with a catchy chorus that emphasizes its sensual and vibrant mood. “You’re Makin’ Me High” became one of Braxton’s most successful singles, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving acclaim for its blend of sensuality and sophistication. Its success further established Braxton as a leading artist in the R&B genre.
6. He Wasn’t Man Enough
“He Wasn’t Man Enough” is a hit single by Toni Braxton from her 2000 album of the same name. Written by Babyface, Kenneth Pratt, and produced by Babyface, the song features a strong, assertive message about empowerment and moving on from a disappointing relationship.
The track is known for its catchy beat and Braxton’s confident vocal performance. It addresses themes of self-worth and independence, with Braxton asserting that her former lover wasn’t able to meet her needs or treat her properly. “He Wasn’t Man Enough” achieved commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Braxton’s signature hits. The song also earned a Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
7. Breathe Again
“Breathe Again” is a standout ballad by Toni Braxton from her 1993 self-titled debut album. Written by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Antonio “L.A.” Reid, and Daryl Simmons, and produced by Babyface and Reid, the song is a powerful expression of longing and emotional vulnerability.
The track features Braxton’s deep, emotive contralto voice and a lush, orchestral arrangement that complements the heartfelt lyrics. “Breathe Again” explores themes of love, heartache, and the desire to reconcile with a significant other. It became one of Braxton’s most successful singles, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and contributing to the critical and commercial success of her debut album.
8. You Mean the World to Me
“You Mean the World to Me” is a romantic ballad by Toni Braxton, released as a single from her 1993 self-titled debut album. Written by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and produced by Babyface, the song showcases Braxton’s emotive vocal style and her ability to convey deep emotional connection through music.
The track features a smooth, soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics that express profound love and devotion. It became a significant hit for Braxton, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and further establishing her as a leading voice in R&B. “You Mean the World to Me” remains a beloved classic in her discography.
9. Another Sad Love Song
“Another Sad Love Song” is the debut single by Toni Braxton from her 1993 self-titled album. Written by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Antonio “L.A.” Reid, and Daryl Simmons, and produced by Babyface and Reid, the song is a soulful R&B ballad that explores themes of heartbreak and emotional pain.
The track features Braxton’s rich contralto voice and a smooth, melancholy melody that underscores the song’s reflective lyrics. “Another Sad Love Song” was a significant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and helping to establish Braxton as a prominent figure in the R&B genre. Its success marked the beginning of a highly influential career for Braxton.
10. I Belong to You
“I Belong to You” is a track by Toni Braxton from her 2002 album “More Than a Woman.” Written by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Antonio “L.A.” Reid, and produced by Babyface, the song is a smooth R&B ballad that expresses deep commitment and emotional connection.
The track features Braxton’s signature soulful vocals and a lush, melodic arrangement that highlights the theme of romantic devotion. The lyrics convey a sense of belonging and unity in a relationship, making it a heartfelt and intimate addition to the album. “I Belong to You” reflects Braxton’s ability to deliver powerful and emotive performances, continuing her success in the R&B genre.