25 Years Later: Every Song On Brandy’s Debut Album Ranked

6. “Always On My Mind”

Brandy has stated that this is one of her personal favorites. The song feels like a great jam session a la neo soul artists like D’Angelo. Of note, Brandy sings her own backgrounds throughout the song which would later become a trademark of her vocal style. This song  was later interpolated by the Walls Group with their single “God On My Mind,” which featured Brandy.

5. “Sunny Day”

This is a fan favorite. Anyone who has this CD can instantly sing along to the chorus of the song. If any other artist sang this back then or even now, it would have run the risk of being cheesy. For some reason though, it works perfectly for Brandy. The sincerity of her tone matched with her girl next door appeal exudes a level of authenticity to the listener.

4. “Baby”

The album’s second single “Baby” was the album’s highest charting single on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart peaking at number 4. And rightfully so. In this song, you can hear Whitney’s influence on Brandy’s vocal styling which matches perfectly with the insanely catchy hook. What’s even more impressive though, are the song’s adlibs  once you remember that Brandy was still a young teen when this was released.

3. “Brokenhearted”

Brandy recorded this song in one take. Enough said. Filled with passion and pain well beyond her years, the album version of this song is the best ballad on the album. When released as a single, the song was re-recorded as a duet with Wanya Morris from Boyz II Men.

2.  “Best Friend”

The musical introduction on “Best Friend” is one of the best moments of R&B in the ‘90s. The intro starts with just a guitar, then adds bass, then flute, then keys to create one of the most memorable musical moments of the decade. It instantly pulls you back to where you where the first time you heard the song every time it plays. The bass line is only rivaled by R&B  classics like “You Used to Love Me” by Faith Evans. Though she sings about the bond she shares with her brother Ray J, it’s easy to apply the lyrics as the theme song to the relationship you share with your own BFF.

1. “Wanna Be Down”

Coming in at number one on this list, is the song that started it all. “I Wanna Be Down” has honestly never left the musical ethos. Play it at any club, cookout, or wedding reception and people — both young and old — can be seen singing along to every word. This song has aged like fine wine. With its classic synth intro, Brandy’s unique tone enchants the listener and makes one want to be down with her, too. And after 25 years, it’s safe to say that we still are.

What are your thoughts? Do you agree with our ranking? Share in the comments below and don’t forget to stream the album.