Toni Braxton is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her deep, sultry voice and emotional ballads. Emerging in the early 1990s, Braxton gained fame with her self-titled debut album, which featured hits like “Another Sad Love Song” and “Breathe Again.” Her distinctive vocal style and powerful performances earned her widespread acclaim, leading to multiple Grammy Awards and chart-topping singles. Over the years, she has released several successful albums, including “Secrets” and “The Heat,” and has ventured into acting and reality television. Toni Braxton remains a significant figure in R&B and pop music, celebrated for her influential contributions to the genre.
1. I Don’t Want To
“I Don’t Want To” is a soulful ballad by Toni Braxton, featured on her 1996 album “Secrets.” Written by R. Kelly, the song showcases Braxton’s powerful and emotive vocal range. The lyrics convey deep feelings of heartache and reluctance to move on from a broken relationship. With its smooth melody and poignant delivery, the song resonates with listeners who have experienced similar emotional struggles. Released as a single in 1997, it achieved commercial success, charting in the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100. The song remains a significant part of Braxton’s musical legacy.
2. Seven Whole Days
“Seven Whole Days” is a heartfelt ballad by Toni Braxton, from her self-titled debut album released in 1993. The song, written by Babyface, Daryl Simmons, and L.A. Reid, captures the pain and frustration of a relationship on the brink of collapse. Braxton’s rich, emotive vocals convey the anguish of being ignored by a loved one for an entire week. The poignant lyrics and smooth R&B melody highlight Braxton’s ability to blend vulnerability and strength. “Seven Whole Days” stands out as a poignant track that showcases her vocal prowess and emotional depth, solidifying her place in the R&B genre.
3. Hit the Freeway
“Hit the Freeway” is a song by Toni Braxton featuring rapper Loon, released as a single from her 2002 album “More Than a Woman.” The track is an upbeat R&B song with a catchy hook and a driving beat, showcasing a more contemporary and dance-oriented side of Braxton’s musical style. The song’s lyrics deal with moving on from a relationship that’s no longer working, with Braxton delivering a confident and assertive performance. “Hit the Freeway” received positive reviews for its production and Braxton’s vocal delivery, and it became a popular hit on urban and dance charts.
4. Un-Break My Heart
“Un-Break My Heart” is one of Toni Braxton’s most iconic ballads, released in 1996 as the lead single from her second album, “Secrets.” The song, written by Diane Warren, features Braxton’s powerful and emotive vocal performance as she sings about heartache and longing for a lost love. Its dramatic orchestration and poignant lyrics resonated with listeners, making it a major hit worldwide. The single topped the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Braxton a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. “Un-Break My Heart” remains a defining track in Braxton’s career and a classic in the R&B genre.
5. You’re Makin’ Me High
“You’re Makin’ Me High” is a hit single by Toni Braxton, released in 1996 as the lead single from her album “Secrets.” Written by Kenneth Pratt, Toni Braxton, and Babyface, the song features a sultry, upbeat groove with R&B and smooth jazz influences. Its lyrics explore themes of romantic excitement and physical attraction, with Braxton delivering a confident and sensual performance. The track became a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and earning acclaim for its catchy melody and Braxton’s vocal prowess. “You’re Makin’ Me High” remains one of Braxton’s signature songs and a favorite among fans.
6. He Wasn’t Man Enough
“He Wasn’t Man Enough” is an iconic R&B track by Toni Braxton, released in 2000 as the lead single from her third studio album, “The Heat.” Written and produced by Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, the song features an upbeat tempo and a catchy melody, diverging from Braxton’s usual ballads. The lyrics tell a story of a woman confronting her ex’s new partner, asserting that he wasn’t good enough for her. Braxton’s confident vocals and the song’s empowering message resonated with listeners, earning it commercial success and critical acclaim. The track won a Grammy Award and remains one of Braxton’s signature hits.
7. Breathe Again
“Breathe Again” is a standout ballad by Toni Braxton from her 1993 self-titled debut album. Written by Babyface and Antonio “L.A.” Reid, the song showcases Braxton’s deep, emotive voice as she sings about the pain of a broken relationship and the longing for reconciliation. The track features a lush, orchestral arrangement and poignant lyrics that convey a sense of vulnerability and hope. “Breathe Again” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim. It remains one of Braxton’s most beloved songs and a defining moment in her career.
8. You Mean the World to Me
“You Mean the World to Me” is a soulful ballad by Toni Braxton, from her self-titled debut album released in 1993. Written by Babyface, L.A. Reid, and Daryl Simmons, the song showcases Braxton’s powerful and emotive voice. The lyrics express deep love and appreciation for a significant other, highlighting their importance in the singer’s life. With its heartfelt lyrics and smooth R&B melody, the song became a fan favorite. Released as a single in 1994, it achieved commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100. The song remains a beloved classic in Braxton’s discography.
9. Another Sad Love Song
“Another Sad Love Song” is the debut single by Toni Braxton, released in 1992 from her self-titled album. Written by Babyface and Antonio “L.A.” Reid, the song marked Braxton’s introduction to the music world with its smooth R&B sound and heartfelt lyrics. The track deals with themes of heartache and melancholy, showcasing Braxton’s rich, emotive vocal delivery. It was a commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Another Sad Love Song” established Braxton as a major new talent in R&B and remains one of her signature hits.
10. I Belong to You
“I Belong to You” is a song by Toni Braxton from her 2002 album “More Than a Woman.” Written by Kenneth Pratt and Toni Braxton, the track is a smooth, romantic ballad that highlights Braxton’s sultry vocal delivery and emotional depth. The song’s lyrics express devotion and commitment in a relationship, with a mellow, R&B groove that complements Braxton’s voice. “I Belong to You” received positive reviews for its heartfelt message and Braxton’s performance, though it was less commercially prominent compared to some of her other hits.
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.
