10 Brandy Performances That’ll Remind You Why She’s Considered “The Vocal Bible”

Brandy is known amongst her R&B peers as The Vocal Bible, and for good reason.

The Mississippi-born, California-raised songstress’ raspy contralto has influenced every prominent R&B voice to follow, as her honey-drenched tone and precise execution of complex riffs and runs has endeared the icon to fans of true vocalists. Even in her precocious teen years, there was a richness to her voice, a grit that was at once powerful, painful and bursting with joy, all of which have developed over the span of her 30-year career.

Today, she stands as a true technician among her R&B counterparts and one of the most influential voices of the last quarter century. This is exemplified in the impressive roster of artists who view her a key component of modern R&B, including Jazmine Sullivan, Solange, Kehlani, Coco Jones, Tank, Tyrese, and countless others. Pop stars ranging from Ariana Grande and Jesse J to Christina Aguilera and Natasha Bedingfield have also drawn inspo from the musician who continues to impress.

In honor of B-Rocka’s 45th birthday, VIBE highlights some of the star’s best live and vocal performances. Check out the beauty in her element below.

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