Brandy Rayana Norwood is nicknamed “the Vocal Bible” for good reason, and her work has influenced many artists from Erykah Badu, to Rihanna, to Ariana.
She’s given us several timeless R&B albums, along with the best selling female duet of all time.
Whitney Houston hand-picked her to play the title character in Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella— which gave Disney it’s highest ratings in 16 years (and won an Emmy), despite being underfunded.
It's heartbreaking to lose a creative visionary well before their time. Amy brought a punk attitude to soul music, blending 60s girl groups with real lyrics.
I still remember buying "Back to Black" on iTunes, with 16 million other people. Rolling Stone ranked at #33 on the "500 Greatest Albums of All Time". Its unique production lends it to a rare timelessness. (along with "Frank")