Born in Indianapolis, Babyface began his career in local R&B clubs and eventually joined the funk group Manchild in the late 70s. The group eventually disbanded, and he began writing and producing on the side. That would lead to landing hits such as Bobby Brown’s “Every Little Step” and Sheena Easton’s “The Lover in Me.”

Although he released his debut album in 1986, it wasn’t until his second album, “Tender Lover” that he would find his greatest success with the album reaching double-platinum status. Described by Spotify as “an inescapable presence in virtually every major facet of pop music,” Babyface discovered a passion for producing and songwriting which led to him launching LaFace Records in 1989 with L.A. Reid where they launched the careers of TLC, Usher, and Toni Braxton.

In 2015, Babyface released “Return of the Tender Lover,” which was in many ways in homage to his debut album, but with a fresh air of R&B sophistication as tracks featured elements of gospel. 

Achieving membership in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and earning eleven Grammy Awards -- four designated as Producer of the Year -- Babyface was honored in 2021 with a Grammy Trustees Award, recognized for the totality of his career. In 2022, he released his ninth album, “Girls' Night Out.” Babyface continues to write and produce for various artists and still finds a thrill in live performances.