In 1997, Brandy was sitting on top of the world, living her best fairy-tale life. Her new hit sitcom Moesha put her sweet face in people’s homes every week and her debut album released three years prior, was a multi-platinum success.

Brandy’s real teenage life suddenly seeped onto the small screen with her title role in the Disney classic story Cinderella with none other than her idol, Whitney Houston, playing her fairy godmother. It was a monumental moment for the 18-year-old star but more so for all the little Black girls and boys who were finally able to recognize her as the first Black Cinderella. Those of us in her age cohort (including this writer) were enraptured by her astounding display of grace, talent, and confidence.

Today, 24 years later with more than a dozen television and film roles under her belt and millions of albums sold, Cinderella still has a special place in Brandy’s heart. At the stroke of midnight on February 12, Cinderella will stream exclusively on Disney+ available for families to discover and enjoy.

Brandy talked about the new generation of fans who will see the movie for the first time, her 18-year-old daughter’s music career plans, and what the songstress has in store for the future.