r/BrandyRayanaNorwood

Most of the people who criticize her for having this title go on to name other legends who already have titles of their own. They name artists like Whitney Houston (who is already “The Voice”), Mariah Carey (who is already the “Songbird Supreme”), Aretha Franklin (who is already the “Queen of Soul”), etc.

Nobody who calls Brandy the “Vocal Bible” does so because they believe she’s the greatest vocalist of all time. Furthermore, an artist can deserve a title over other artists (and vocalists) who may be more technically gifted than they are. People call Brandy the “Vocal Bible” because her voice is studied as such by artists who came after her. Brandy’s voice also touches listeners in ways similar to the Bible and other gospel traditions. It’s like soul, but more spiritual. The method that Brandy would use to layer her vocals became a blueprint for modern R&B, and Brandy’s riffs and runs are analyzed the most of any singer who’s ever shown the skill.

People always clown Mary J. Blige for her vocals, but those same people also agree that she deserves to be called the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul”, even if stronger vocalists followed in her footsteps (making music that falls under Hip-Hop Soul) who could have taken her crown. It was the influence that allowed her to keep it, and Brandy’s qualification for the “Vocal Bible” title can also be chalked up to influence. Some of the strongest vocalists have embodiment titles such as “Queen”, “Supreme”, or use of “The” (e.g. The Voice) to symbolize being the ultimate form or the reigning entity. Brandy has a title that reflects how much she has touched and impacted those who have heard her voice. That’s what her “Vocal Bible” title is all about. (Obviously, she’s not a bad vocalist herself. Her title just isn’t about the amount of talent she possesses.)

You have to read into everything about Brandy’s career to fully understand her place in the history of music. You have to read Brandy’s catalog (study it) to fully understand and—maybe—appreciate her process for creating music. READING Brandy’s history and acquainting yourself with all that she has done for the music world will help you better grasp why people look up to her. This may also help you come to terms with the title that she has been given. Most of the people who criticize Brandy for this title have not done their homework; just like Christians (believe in whatever religion you want to) emphasize Bible studies, you need to “study” Brandy to see the full picture. Many people who praise her so highly have studied and developed their understanding. This includes both fans and professional musicians.

When Kehlani—a modern R&B icon—cited Brandy as a musical inspiration, people were at her neck. They acted like she didn’t have any right to be inspired by Brandy. Regarding the title: Kehlani is one of the main contemporary artists who have studied and learned from Brandy’s voice. Several others have done the same, and that is exactly why people refer to Brandy as the “Vocal Bible”.