On this day in 1994, Brandy released her debut single, ‘I Wanna Be Down’, at the age of fifteen.
Brandy has stated that she didn’t initially wish to release the song as her debut because she didn’t think it was the best introduction of her sound to the world. The song’s success proved that it was actually the perfect choice.
The single spent four weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, and peaked at #6 on the Hot 100. It was also a Top 15 hit in both Australia and New Zealand.
The song earned Brandy two Billboard Awards, and two Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards.
The song’s remix featuring MC Lyte, Queen Latifah and Yo-Yo was widely successful and had its own music video, directed by Hype Williams. The four artists have performed the remix together live a number of times, as recently as 2018’s Essence Festival.
Watch the music videos:
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