The Los Angeles premiere of The Front Room took place last night at the AMC Grove, drawing a star-studded crowd. Directed by Max and Sam Eggers, this chilling thriller follows newly-pregnant Belinda, played by Brandy Norwood, as she faces the sinister intentions of her mother-in-law, portrayed by Kathryn Hunter. The film, based on a short story by Susan Hill, captivated audiences with its suspenseful narrative. Notable attendees included Andrew Burnap, Neal Huff, and the talented cast and crew. Produced by Lucan Toh, Babak Anvari, David Hinojosa, and Julia Oh, Everything Goes to Hell promises to be a gripping cinematic experience.
(L to R:Andrew Burnap, Kathyrn Hunter, Brandy Norwood) (L to R: Kathyrn Hunter and Brandy Norwood)
After several frustrating delays, Normani’s long-awaited debut solo studio album, Dopamine, has made its way into the world. However, the “All Yours” singer is being accused of cutting a few industry corners in the process.
Recording artist, songwriter, and producer Tayla Parx claimed Normani excluded her from the production credits, specifically on track, “Insomnia.” On X (formerly Twitter), Tayla reposted a clip from Normani’s June appearance on the Zach Sang Show, to officially call her out.
“It’s crazy ’cause I haven’t listened to the album yet,” she wrote. “And this is how I’m finding out I’m on it. No credit. No business done. People that I’ve known forever. Just dropped my sh*t and left me off LOL okayyy.”
It’s crazy cause I haven’t listened to the album yet and this is how I’m finding out I’m on it … no credit , no business done . People that I’ve known forever. Just dropped my shit and left me off lol okayyy! #taylamadehttps://t.co/tNNV3P8kbg
However, in the credits tab on Spotify, Tayla’s name does appear as a contributing songwriter, at least as of today (July 16). Could this have been a temporary technical issue?
Spotify
Also, during the interview, Normani and Sang volleyed praises of Tayla’s talent. “Tayla Parx is one of the greatest songwriters… She’s an icon,” said Sang.
Normani then added: “I know. I miss her. I haven’t seen her in ages… Yeah, she really is.”
Watch Normani’s appearance on the Zach Sang Show above.
Dopamine is out now via RCA. Find more information here.
Last month, pop sensation Ariana Grande brought together R&B icons Brandy and Monica for a remix of her new single, “The Boy is Mine.” This collaboration rekindled the magic of their 1998 hit, “The Boy Is Mine,” and now Brandy is eager to take their reunion to the next level.
Brandy, who recently reprised her role as Cinderella in Disney’s “Descendants: The Rise of Red,” shared her excitement about working with Monica again during an interview with “Extra” at the L.A. premiere. She expressed her gratitude for Ariana Grande’s gesture, highlighting the respect and homage paid to their original track.
“It was so magical. The energy between me and Monica was so beautiful,” Brandy gushed. “I loved working with her this time. It was so great for [Ariana] to call us up to be a part of it. She didn’t have to do that… even though her song is called ‘The Boy Is Mine,’ she didn’t take anything from the original. She created a whole new song, so to call us up and for her to pay homage that way was just such a blessing. I had a great time with Monica and I just want to do more with her in the future.”
The synergy between Brandy and Monica has ignited Brandy’s desire to collaborate further. She revealed that she has been in constant communication with Monica, discussing potential future projects, including a tour or a Las Vegas residency.
“I hit [Monica] up so much talking about all the things that we could do together — tour, residency, everything,” Brandy continued. “I really want that, Monica!”
Fans of the R&B legends are now eagerly anticipating the possibility of seeing Brandy and Monica share the stage once more. Whether it’s a nationwide tour or a spectacular Vegas residency, the duo’s reunion promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers everywhere.
In the midst of speculation and chatter surrounding a potential tour involving Monica and Brandy, Monica has stepped forward to address the public discourse. Particularly in response to remarks made by Ray J. Taking to Instagram, Monica delivered a direct message to Ray J. She told him to stop speaking on her in public. The saga began when Ray J publicly advocated for a joint tour featuring Monica and Brandy. However, Monica took issue with the manner in which her name was being talked about in the media without any formal discussions or contracts being presented to her. “Ray J – I’m kindly asking you to stop speaking on me in public!” Monica wrote on IG. “A private conversation would be both necessary and respectful! Brandy is a LEGEND! She’s one of one with an extensive catalog that I deeply respect and a voice sent from heaven!”
“Please allow this to remain positive and beautiful!” She continued. “Neither should open, we should give someone else that opportunity and co-headline a massive shared stage if this is to ever happen! Any further convo should be private,” she relayed. “I’ve been repeatedly contacted about interviews where my name and tour possibilities are being discussed. I’ve not received any contracts or calls about said tour,” Monica clarified in her Instagram post, setting the record straight on her involvement in the purported tour. In her message to Ray J, Monica emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in handling such matters, particularly when it involves esteemed colleagues like Brandy.
Moreover, Ray J took to Instagram recently during one of Monica’s live sessions to spew the idea that Brandy and Monica should embark on a tour. However, her response serves as a reminder of the significance of clear communication and mutual respect in the entertainment industry. As two accomplished artists with extensive catalogs and a shared history, Monica and Brandy deserve to have their voices heard and their wishes respected. Furthermore, Monica’s call for positivity and unity in navigating the situation reflects her commitment to fostering a harmonious working environment and ensuring that the focus remains on celebrating the artistry and talent of all involved.
Moreover, in her statement, she highlighted Brandy’s legendary status and the need for any further discussions regarding the tour to take place in private. Out of respect for both artists. Furthermore, as the dialogue continues, Monica’s stance serves as a beacon of integrity and professionalism. Monica’s message resonates as a testament to the power of communication and collaboration in fostering understanding and unity within the music industry. What do you think of this news? Do you think Monica and Brandy should go on tour?
Earlier this week, Ariana Grande released her new album Eternal Sunshine. The highly-anticipated new album is her first since 2020’s Positions. The album was already led off by a successful lead single “yes, and?.” The song debuted at the very top spot on the Hot 100 and is still hovering inside the top 30 weeks later. To celebrate the release of the album, she sat down with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe. They discussed some of the most relevant details of the project.
During the interview, she spoke on one of the tracks that grabbed fan’s attention immediately. The track is called “The Boy Is Mine” and it draws heavily from the Brandy and Monica smash hit of the same name. The track spent a stunning 13 weeks at number one on the Hot 100 and went on to win a Grammy. “I love that song. I’ve always wanted to reimagine that song in some kind of way. I was kind of like, ‘This is a very bad idea.’ But there is a large group of my fans that really do love a bad girl anthem, and this is kind of an elevated version of that,” Grande explained. Check out the full interview below.
Ariana Grande’s new album is expected to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 next week. The project has the chance for a massive debut and could be one of the biggest first weeks of any new album in 2024. With it, nearly the entire tracklist of the album is expected to debut on the Hot 100. That could also include a major rise for “yes, and?.” Chart speculation sites project that it could go as high as the top 5 in next week’s charts.
What do you think of Ariana Grande’s initial skepticism to making “The Boy Is Mine?” What do you think of the final version of the song? Let us know in the comment section below.
Late last year, Uproxx called Burna Boy the perfect ambassador for Afrobeats to the rest of the world, especially the United States, after his sold-out arena tour stop in Los Angeles. Tonight, he continued in that role with a medly performance of his songs, “On Form” and “Sittin On Top Of The World” on the 2024 66th Annual Grammy Awards.
Burna was joined in the latter by Brandy, whose song was sampled her 1998 hit “Top Of The World,” and 21 Savage, who performed a laid-back verse in the vein of Mase, who was featured on the original.
The performance — and Burna’s four nominations this year — proved why Burna has held the role since Afrobeats’ breakout stateside, as his magnetism emanted off the stage. Burna’s been one of the genre’s biggest artists for the past seven years after singing to Atlantic Records in the US in 2017 and releasing a string of critically-acclaimed, fan-favorite albums, which includes African Giant, Twice As Tall, Love, Damini, and 2023’s I Told Them….
The latter garnered Burna his four nominations this year: Best Global Music Album; Best African Music Performance for “City Boys”; Best Global Music Performance for “Alone”; and Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Sittin’ On Top Of The World.” Going into tonight’s ceremony Burna held one previous win for Twice As Tall , which took home Best Global Music Album at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards in 2021.
Watch Burna Boy’s performance above and check out Uproxx’s full 2024 Grammy Awards coverage here.
Burna Boy is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
44-year-old Brandy continues to prove that she’s “the Vocal Bible” at this point in her career, especially thanks to her recent holiday album. While it doesn’t seem like she’ll be walking away from the music industry anytime soon, the Mississippi native is helping to prime her daughter, Sy’Rai Smith for a career in the entertainment industry. Rather than using her singing voice to reach new heights, the 21-year-old is turning to podcasting to help build her own platform. Earlier this month, the first episode of her I Shouldn’t Have Said That series started, with Glee actress Amber Riley joining her in the hot seat.
The two girls chatted about past embarrassing moments, with Smith promising to deliver “relatable stories, expert advice, and a healthy dose of laughter” in all upcoming episodes. After hearing her and Riley chop it up, listeners have been eagerly waiting to find out who her next guest will be. Needless to say, many are surprised to find out it’s Blueface – and not everyone’s shock is pleasant. In the video below, the 26-year-old eats chicken delivered to him by Brandy while on set of her daughter’s show.
“Lord. Please don’t let him say anything cr*zy to Brandy child. She doesn’t play,” one Instagram user wrote in @thejasminebrand’s comments. “Sonya Norwood would never approve of this BS,” another chimed in, mentioning the Queens actress’ mother. Elsewhere, others pointed out that Blue’s manager Wack 100, is also responsible for keeping Sy’Rai’s uncle Ray J booked and busy, which could be how the unlikely collaboration came to be.
When he’s not giving podcast interviews to budding starlets, you can probably find Blueface bashing his youngest son, Junior, online. The months-old baby is receiving little love from his father lately, as the “Thotiana” rapper even continues to deny his paternity. Read more about that at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
Brandy has collaborated with many music industry stars over the course of her decades-long career. As one of the most prolific R&B artists of all time, she’s blended so well with Hip Hop stars. Her soulful voice, paired with the talents of rap artists, is always a musical treat. Since her debut in the early 90s, Brandy has had multiple Hip Hop collaborations, highlighting her versatility with each offering. The following seven tracks are some of the hottest ones she’s released.
“Sitting Up In My Room (Remix)” fuses Brandy’s signature R&B vocals with LL Cool J’s charismatic rap style. The 1996 song rode off the success of the original, Grammy-nominated track, which was nominated for a Grammy. The original version also peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and ended up earning a platinum certification. Moreover, “Sittin’ Up In My Room (Remix)” marked one of Brandy’s first collaborations with hip-hop. Released months after the original, the track also sported a sample of Patrice Rushen’s single, “Haven’t You Heard.” While the remix didn’t turn out as popular as the original version, it became an early testament to Brandy’s versatility as a musician.
“Where You Wanna Be” is an emotional track exploring a romantic relationship where a woman is giving a man an ultimatum. The track is a cry for reassurance from a romantic partner. “Ladies, raise your hand if you’ve heard enough,” Brandy sings, as she narrates her frustrations about her man not prioritizing her. Soon after, T.I. comes in with some smooth bars about how he plans to be present “forever more, the rest of eternity.” Produced by Kanye West, “Where You Wanna Be” features a perfect balance of soulful melody and rhythmic beats, a style reminiscent of Brandy’s music.
5. “Top Of The World” Ft. Mase
“Top Of The World” is the seventh track off Brandy’s second studio album, Never Say Never. The song represents themes of success and ambition, with Brandy reminiscing about how far she had come as a musician. “Top Of The World” did relatively well on the charts, peaking at No. 44 on Billboard’s Radio Songs Chart, and reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. More recently, in 2023, “Top Of The World” was sampled by Nigerian singer Burna Boy on a track titled “Sittin’ On Top Of The World.” This brought some much-needed nostalgia for Brandy fans and a newfound appreciation for one of her most ambitious collabs.
“Put It Down” was released as the lead single of Brandy’s sixth studio album, Two Eleven. The song centers around sexual attraction and confidence, with Brandy and Chris Brown delivering flirtatious verses over a pulsating beat. Marking Brandy’s return to music after a brief hiatus, the track sees the songstress keep up with contemporary R&B while staying true to her original style. “Put It Down” was also a hit, performing relatively well on the charts, and amassing over 60 million views on YouTube.
3. “Talk About Our Love” Ft. Kanye West
Easily one of her best collabs, Brandy and longtime musical partner Kanye West excelled on this sleek number. “Talk About Our Love” was the lead single on Brandy’s fourth studio album, Afrodisiac. Peaking at No. 36 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, the track was also a moderate commercial success. The track’s theme revolved around nosy acquaintances who always seemed to be in the couples’ business.
With “Baby Mama,” Brandy released an ode to single mothers. “Ain’t dependent on you, I’m a baby mama,” Brandy sings, as she praises single mothers for their resilience. In a comment on her YouTube, Brandy further explains that the inspiration for the track is her own daughter, Syrai, who motivates her to push through anything. Furthermore, Chance the Rapper’s verse helped boost the track’s appeal across R&B and Hip Hop fanbases.
1. “I Wanna Be Down” (Remix) Ft. Queen Latifah, Yo-Yo & MC Lyte
“I Wanna Be Down” (Remix) employs the talents of Queen Latifah, Yo-Yo, and MC Lyte to create a Hip Hop version of Brandy’s smash hit, “I Wanna Be Down.” This remix is important because it established Brandy as a versatile act; this was one of her first Hip Hop collabs. Moreover, with almost 60 million streams, “I Wanna Be Down” (Remix) is also one of Brandy’s most streamed songs on Spotify. Overall, it remains a timeless piece of music in her decades-long career.
As the ’90s R&B scene flourished with new talent, Brandy Norwood emerged as a defining voice with a maturity that belied her years. Her self-titled debut album had already positioned her as one to watch, but the 1998 release of Never Say Never catapulted her into the stratosphere of musical fame. This sophomore effort was a delicate balancing act of vulnerability and confidence, wrapped in a polished production that captured the complexity of young love and personal growth.
Never Say Never arrived when R&B was in flux, grappling with the infusion of hip-hop and pop elements. Brandy, with her velvety voice and girl-next-door charm, managed to navigate these shifts, delivering an album that was both innovative and deeply rooted in the genre’s traditions. The album showcased her evolution as an artist, heralding a new era for R&B with its sophisticated harmonies and introspective songwriting.
Never Say Never: A Tapestry Of R&B Perfection
The crafting of Never Say Never was a meticulous process that saw Brandy collaborating with some of the best producers and songwriters in the industry, including Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, who was pivotal in shaping the album’s sound. The result was a tapestry of contemporary R&B that wove together infectious melodies, sophisticated production, and Brandy’s passionate vocal performances. The album was both a reflection of its time and a timeless classic, with songs that spoke to the heart through their authenticity and lyrical depth.
The album’s centerpiece was the Grammy-winning duet “The Boy Is Mine,” with fellow R&B sensation Monica. This track was more than just a hit; it was a cultural phenomenon that encapsulated the essence of ’90s R&B, blending soulful harmonies with a narrative of rivalry and empowerment. Other standout tracks like “Have You Ever?” and “Almost Doesn’t Count” showcased Brandy’s ability to convey complex emotions gracefully, further cementing her as a masterful storyteller.
The collaborations on Never Say Never extended beyond duets. With features from Mase and Kobe Bryant, Brandy demonstrated her versatility and the ability to cross genres, blending R&B with hip-hop and pop influences. The album resonated with listeners from all walks of life, creating an enduring collection of songs that defined an era.
Chart-Topping Phenomenon
Upon its release, Never Say Never soared, swiftly ascending the charts and signaling Brandy’s undeniable impact on the music industry. The album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. Its longevity was remarkable, with multi-platinum certification that attested to its widespread appeal. This commercial success clearly affirmed Brandy’s talent and the public’s readiness to embrace her fresh take on R&B.
The album’s singles became fixtures on the Billboard Hot 100. “The Boy Is Mine” occupied the No. 1 spot for an impressive 13 weeks. It was a testament to the song’s resonance with a broad audience. “Have You Ever?” followed suit, reaching the chart’s summit and solidifying the album’s status as a repository of hits. Brandy’s ability to create personal and universally relatable music propelled Never Say Never beyond commercial success. It became a soundtrack for countless fans’ lives.
Critics praised the album’s cohesive sound and Brandy’s vocal maturity. It noted her evolution from a promising teenage star to a sophisticated artist. The positive critical reception, coupled with impressive sales figures, underscored the significance of Never Say Never in the landscape of ’90s music, marking it as a high point in Brandy’s career and a classic in the R&B genre.
The Enduring Legacy Of Never Say Never
Over two decades, Never Say Never‘s influence remains deeply embedded in the fabric of R&B and beyond. Brandy’s sophomore album didn’t just mirror the era. It helped to define it, setting new standards for vocal performance and production in the genre. Songs from the album have become enduring classics, often cited by contemporary artists as pivotal inspirations for their own work.
The legacy of Never Say Never is multifaceted. It stands as a beacon of the power of collaboration within the music industry. This is exemplified by Brandy’s work with Monica and their chart-topping duet that broke barriers and set records. The album also showcased the potential of R&B music to transcend genre boundaries. It blended soul with pop sensibility in a manner that was both innovative and respectful of its roots.
Today, Brandy’s Never Say Never continues to be celebrated for its artistry and its contribution to the narrative of modern music. Its timeless appeal is a testament to Brandy’s talent and unique ability to craft songs that speak to listeners’ hearts, making her one of the most influential voices of her generation.
Iconic R&B legend Brandy spreads holiday cheer with the release of her inaugural holiday album, Christmas with Brandy. The 11-track project features soulful renditions of classics like “Deck the Halls” and “Jingle Bells,” along with original festive tunes like the sizzling “Christmas Party for Two” and the heartwarming “Christmas Gift,” featuring a special duet with her daughter, Sy’Rai.
The album starts with the sassy “Feels Different,” showcasing Brandy’s effortless swagger and a fresh take on the holiday season. Notable highlights include a cover of the cherished “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and the soul-infused “Christmas Party for Two.” Brandy’s joyful holiday journey doesn’t stop with the album; she’ll be performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and on Good Morning America, while also starring in the upcoming Netflix original film “Best. Christmas. Ever!” alongside Heather Graham, premiering on November 16. Get ready to celebrate the season with Brandy’s soulful and festive tunes.
okayyy.”
