Toni Braxton has her plate full for 2018.
As her new single “Deadwood” starts building momentum on R&B radio, Braxton begins her promotional trek for her new album Sex & Cigarettes.
In an interview with Essence, the seven-time Grammy Award promises her new music doesn’t echo the message of her joint album with Babyface Love, Marriage & Divorce was about the ins and outs of marriage,” she explained to Essence. “Sex & Cigarettes is more about me feeling sexy, independent, and expressing my feelings. I think for a long time I felt I had to make certain records, but now I want to just be free! I don’t want to be censored, I just want to focus on being an artist and creating good quality music that people can relate to.”
In addition to working on her new music, Braxton is taking another swing at acting. She continues her film relationship with Lifetime and lands a role in the network’s upcoming movie Faith Under Fire.
The picture will recount the true story of Antoinette Tuff, a single mother who saved hundreds in an elementary school when she convinced a gunman to surrender.
Braxton tells Essence, “I did a lot of research to get me into character. I watched all of her interviews and studied her mannerisms. I actually met Antoinette in person on set, she’s a very courageous woman. I am inspired by her bravery and honored to be playing her in Faith Under Fire. She is a true hero.”
She also hopes to embark on an international tour to support her Sex & Ciagrettes album.
Braxton’s lead single “Deadwood” opens at No. 30 on the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart today.
