Toni Braxton (born on October 7, 1967) is an American singer-songwriter, pianist, record producer, actress, and philanthropist, and has been active since 1989. She is best known for her single “Unbreak My Heart” and her second album Secrets. Braxton was discovered early by William E. Pettaway Jr., who helped her launch her career.

Braxton first started performing with her four sisters in a family band titled “The Braxtons” in the late 1980s, successfully attracting the attention of Antonio “L.A.” Reid and Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, who were co-artists Braxton’s songs, including her signature song, Un-Break My Heart.

L.A. Reid and Babyface brought Braxton in as a substitution and had her record a demo of “Love Shoulda Brought You Home”. The song made it onto the soundtrack of the movie Boomerang, giving her early success and recognition. Braxton started recording her solo debut album at LaFace Records on July 13, 1993, quickly gaining popularity as it peaked at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 Albums Chart. Braxton’s debut album has won her several awards, including three Grammy Awards. Her debut album also won her two American Music Awards.

Her second studio album, “Secrets”, which was also her most successful album was released in June of 1996. Secrets included her 1997 hit single “How Could an Angel Break My Heart” and “You’re Makin' Me High”. The album reached number two on the Billboard 200. Internationally, “Secrets” sold more than 15 million copies, making Braxton a superstar.

Braxton went on to release 7 more albums, seeing the success of later singles like “He Wasn’t Man Enough” and “Unbreak My Heart” being some of the most popular.

Braxton has also been successful in the executive producer seat in some TV shows, such as Braxton Family values and Tamar & Vince.