babyface

Babyface, born Kenneth Edmonds on April 10, 1959, in Indianapolis, Indiana, is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He earned his nickname in childhood and later adopted it as his stage name. He rose to prominence in the 1980s as a member of the R&B group The Deele before establishing himself as a highly influential songwriter and producer.

In collaboration with Antonio "L.A." Reid, he formed the songwriting and production duo L.A. Reid and Babyface. They founded LaFace Records in 1989, which became a major platform for late 1990s R&B and pop acts, including Toni Braxton, Usher, TLC, and OutKast.

As a solo artist, Babyface released several albums and charted singles during the late 1980s and 1990s. He is also one of the era's most prolific hitmakers, writing and producing for many artists. Notable credits include Toni Braxton's "Another Sad Love Song" and "Breathe Again," Boyz II Men's "End of the Road," and Usher's early material.

His work helped shape the sound of contemporary R&B, with smooth ballads and polished, radio-friendly production. He has earned multiple Grammy Awards and remains active as a songwriter and producer.