Eight long years have passed since Brandy released her last studio album, Two Eleven. Although she has released a couple of singles here and there as an independent artist (“Beggin & Pleadin” and “Freedom Rings”), she has been tight-lipped about any signs of a new studio LP….until now. With a career that spans 25 years of music, there’s no denying that she was one of the quintessential artists of the 90s. Now, she’s back to reclaim her throne and remind everyone that she’s a mother.

Brandy’s new Chance the Rapper assisted single, “Baby Mama” has garnered warm reception so far. The beat is banging and Chance the Rapper steals the show with his rapid-fire, witty flow. However, at this stage in Brandy’s career, I’m a little underwhelmed that this is the choice for her first single. Lyrically it seems to fall flat compared to some of her classics like, “I Wanna Be Down”, the Grammy Award-winning catfight, “The Boy Is Mine” or even “Put It Down”.

Nonetheless, the song is growing on me. Plus, the video is a nice lift for the song (even though it doesn’t have much to do with the song itself). Don’t get me wrong, celebrating single motherhood is admirable. Fantasia even did it on her debut album. Ahem….her debut album. Again, Brandy is seven albums in and I’m missing the wow factor behind this lead single selection choice. But, I digress.

In other Brandy news, there is a great buzz around fans requesting a Verzuz battle with her and Monica. Honestly, I think it would be quite an entertaining show to witness. However, neither of the ladies has expressed interest in participating in a “battle”, but may consider a “celebration”. For now, we can all anxiously await this Saturday’s matchup between R &B/Neo-Soul heavyweights Erykah Badu and Jill Scott.

Check out “Baby Mama” featuring Chance the Rapper. What are your thoughts on the song and her upcoming album, b7? Is it a worthy comeback single?