Toni Michele Braxton, born on October 7, 1967, in Severn, Maryland, is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality. Raised in a strict religious household by her parents, Michael and Evelyn Braxton, Toni and her four sisters began singing in their father's church. Her music career took off when she was discovered by songwriter Bill Pettaway, leading to a record contract with Arista Records for her and her sisters, known as The Braxtons.

Toni Braxton gained significant attention with her contribution to the soundtrack of the film "Boomerang" in 1992, which included the hit single "Love Shoulda Brought You Home." Her self-titled debut album, released in 1993 under LaFace Records, was a commercial and critical success, selling over 10 million copies worldwide and earning her three Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist.

Her follow-up album, "Secrets" (1996), featured the iconic single "Un-Break My Heart" and solidified her status as a leading R&B artist. Despite facing contractual disputes and health challenges, Braxton continued to release successful albums, including "The Heat" (2000) and "Love, Marriage & Divorce" (2014), the latter earning her another Grammy Award.

In addition to her music career, Braxton made history as the first Black actress to play Belle in the Broadway production of "Beauty and the Beast" in 1998. She also starred in the reality TV series "Braxton Family Values" alongside her sisters. Despite announcing her retirement in 2013, Braxton returned to music with her 2018 album "Sex & Cigarettes" and continued to release new work, including "Spell My Name" (2020).

Toni Braxton has sold over 70 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling female artists in history. Her contributions to music have been recognized with numerous awards, including seven Grammy Awards and induction into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 2011. She is also known for her advocacy work, particularly with Autism Speaks, and her openness about her health struggles with lupus and pericarditis. Braxton has two sons from her marriage to musician Keri Lewis.