*Kenneth ‘Babyface’ Edmonds is gearing up for Uncle Charlie’s R&B Cookout tour, starting August 27 in Los Angeles. Joined by Charlie Wilson, El DeBarge, and K-Ci Hailey, the tour promises a nostalgic journey through decades of hits.
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Babyface, 67, is eager to perform a medley of songs he’s written or produced, a segment he says energizes crowds with its surprising breadth. “That is one of the best parts of the show is when I go through the medley of songs that I did for other people,” he tells PEOPLE.
At home, Babyface is “Dad” to his three children, sons Brandon and Dylan, and 16-year-old daughter Peyton. He shared with the publication that his kids are still uncovering his musical legacy. “I’m just Dad, not so much Babyface. I’m Babyface to other people sometimes,” he says.
His son Brandon has recently taken more interest, even offering creative suggestions for his father’s work. Crafting his live performances is no small feat for Babyface. Selecting songs from his vast catalog, including hits like Boyz II Men’s “Water Runs Dry” or Brandy’s “Sittin’ Up In My Room,” requires careful curation.
“There’s a whole lot of songs that I leave out that I’ve done for a number of people,” he explains, noting that the setlist must flow seamlessly to captivate audiences. Though Babyface has penned countless love songs, he rarely writes about fatherhood.
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He reflected on his 1996 track “The Day” as a rare exception, admitting, “I’m just the love guy.”
His focus remains on creating music that resonates, a talent he’ll showcase on tour through early October, ending in Memphis. The trek fulfills a long-held desire to collaborate extensively with Charlie Wilson, blending their legacies for fans.
Babyface’s performances will highlight his four-decade influence, leaving audiences in awe of his contributions to artists like Beyoncé and SZA, even if some songs don’t make the setlist.
“It’s all got to feel right,” he says, ensuring every show feels cohesive and impactful.
