Toni Braxton: Long As I Live
Details
Genre: R&BPros:
Braxton sounds vivacious; reminiscent of 'Secrets' heartbreak balladry but with a splash of Ne-Yo sophisticationCons:
If extended, possibly with more from the guitar solo, it would lift the song's drama“Breathe Again” singer takes another breath at sultry breakup R&B on latest single
“Breathe Again” singer takes another breath at sultry breakup R&B on latest single
Riding on a comeback crest, Toni Braxton is showing no signs of slowing down. Thanks to an acclaimed duet’s album with Babyface (Love, Marriage & Divorce), a shot at Broadway via the Cotton Club throwback After Midnight and the buzz behind a satisfying Lifetime bio-pic, the polished R&B songstress is now preparing the release of her first studio album in a decade.
“Long As I Live,” the second single off the forthcoming disc, presents the sultry diva in a world of hurt, suffering from a breakup and learning to accept her ex’s commitment to another. Produced by R&B vet Antonio Dixon, it sounds like a distant cousin of Aaliyah’s “Rock the Boat.” Playing up to that comparison is the overload of warm synths, dreamy vocals, soft percussion and breezy finger snaps.
Towards the end, Braxton shows off passionate ad-libs and a surprising electric guitar solo that nudges our attention. Sadly, because of the single’s radio edit and fade, it ends way too soon. If extended a little, it would’ve giving us that rare treat of an Isley Brothers memento with some Braxton family values.
It’s a good enough single to hold us down until the album drops, and sure to raise our suspicions of something heavier in the future.
The album, Sex and Cigarettes, is expected to drop March 23.
