I think this newfound "confidence" is the result of Brandy getting so much validation in the past year. From Broadway (all those celebs coming out like Aretha Franklin to support and the love she got from the fans), getting her own show, Beggin and Pleading praise. It does feel like the old Brandy is back- the good and the bad side. Brandy is more quiet and humble when she's going through rough times in her professional life. I think this is separate from what's going on with her friends but maybe there is a connection between the two.