Toni Braxton (born Toni Michelle Braxton on October 7, 1967) is an American singer and actress. Known for her husky alto voice, Braxton has won six Grammy Awards and has sold over forty million records worldwide. Her U.S. number-one hit "Un-Break My Heart" is the second biggest single by a female artist ever.
HBCU: Bowie State University
Toni Michelle Braxton was born on October 7, in Severn, Maryland, to Michael Braxton, a minister, and his wife, Evelyn. Brought up in a Christian household that prohibited listening to secular music, Toni and her four younger sisters began singing at an early age at their father's church. Over time, Michael and Evelyn Braxton eased their rules, allowing their daughters to watch “Soul Train” and gain exposure to singers like Stevie Wonder and Chaka Khan. Music quickly became a central component in Toni’s life and she entered local talent shows while collaborating with her sisters. Following high school, Toni attended Bowie State University where she planned on becoming a music teacher.
While filling her car up at a local gas station and singing to herself, Toni caught the ear of producer and songwriter Bill Pettaway. Pettaway was moved by Braxton’s husky, lush voice and with his help, Toni landed a record contract with Arista for her and her sisters, who Pettaway envisioned as the female version of The Jackson Five.
