William Ray Norwood Jr.
- Born:
- January 17, 1981, McComb, Mississippi, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Songwriter, Rapper, Record Producer, Actor
Early Life and Education
- Born and raised in McComb, Mississippi, to Willie Norwood Sr., a gospel singer and choir director, and Sonja Bates-Norwood.
- Moved to Los Angeles, California, with his family at a young age.
- Began singing in his father's church choir.
- Attended Hollywood High School, showcasing his musical talents early on.
Career and Major Achievements
- Signed with Atlantic Records in 1998.
- Released his debut album, Brandy, in 1994, which was a commercial success.
- Achieved international fame with the single "The Boy Is Mine," a duet with Monica, which topped the Billboard Hot 100.
- Transitioned into acting, starring in the UPN sitcom Moesha from 1996 to 2001.
- Continued to release successful albums throughout his career, solidifying his status in the music industry.
- Served as a judge on the first season of America's Got Talent (2006).
- Starred in the Broadway production of Chicago in 2015.
Notable Works
Discography
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 1994 | Brandy |
| 1998 | Never Say Never |
| 2002 | Full Moon |
| 2004 | Afrodisiac |
| 2008 | Human |
| 2012 | Two Eleven |
| 2020 | B7 |
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1996-2001 | Moesha | Moesha Mitchell |
| 1997 | Cinderella | Cinderella |
| 1998 | I Still Know What You Did Last Summer | Karla Wilson |
| 2022-2023 | Queens | Naomi "Xplicit Lyrics" Olivo |
Legacy and Impact
William Ray Norwood Jr., professionally known as Brandy, has left a significant mark on both the music and television industries. Her vocal talent, acting abilities, and contributions to R&B and pop music have influenced numerous artists and entertainers. Her hit songs and iconic roles continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying her status as a cultural icon. This 'billy ray biography' details her impactful career.