Toni Braxton Going Beyond Sad Love Songs

When LaFace released Toni Braxton’s self-titled debut in 1993, observers compared the artist’s vocals to those of veteran diva Anita Baker. However, by the end of the project, Braxton had clearly established her own identity, with three gold-certified singles and an album that sold 4.6 million copies, according to SoundScan.

Now, as the label prepares for the international release of Braxton’s still-untitled sophomore album, executives hope to build on the distinctive balladeer persona she has established.

LaFace co-founder/co-president Antonio “L.A.” Reid says, “R&B will always be her base, and it’s important that we satisfy that core. But because of the incredible pop success we had on her first album, she has recorded a new project that will take her beyond being just ‘another sad-love-song artist.’ “

Reid is referring to Braxton’s 1993 debut single, “Another Sad Love Song,” which peaked at No. 2 on the Hot R&B Singles chart. That single set the tone for subsequent hits, such as “Breathe Again” and “You Mean The World To Me,” which peaked on the Hot R&B Singles chart at No. 4 and No. 3, respectively.

The success of the singles helped propel “Toni Braxton” to the No. 1 spot on the Top R&B Singles chart for three weeks and to No. 1 on The Billboard 200 for two weeks. Along the way, Braxton was named best new artist at 1993’s Grammy Awards.

The Maryland-born alto vocalist describes her second album, which at press time was scheduled to hit stores June 18, as having a young sound. “It has some really nice grooves and up-tempo songs,” says Braxton. “The album will sound familiar to fans, but it’s more than just a reworking of my first project.”

LaFace co-founder/co-president Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, who did production on the album, says Braxton’s vocal interpretation of songs and her technical skills have improved since “Toni Braxton.”

“She’s demonstrating superior breathing technique and shows a lot of growth by combining light and airy vocals with huskier, meatier deliveries,” he says. “And the tracks have the power and diversity to grab an even broader consumer share.”

Braxton says she was much more at ease working with Edmonds on her second album. “The first time, it was a little intimidating for me,” she says. “After all, he’s Babyface.”

The second album ranges in style from the swaying, acoustic guitar-led R&B tune “Let It Flow” (which is also on the Arista “Waiting To Exhale” soundtrack) to the deeply moving, show tune-style ballad “How Could An Angel Break My Heart,” which features Arista saxophonist Kenny G.

“You Make Me High,” the first single, has a West Coast-influenced track that uses familiar driving drum and bass beats. But the song substitutes happy-sounding chords and melody for classically ominous G-funk synth lines.

“You Make Me High” will be serviced to R&B, crossover, and pop stations during this month.