Best Babyface Songs - Top 10 Soulful Mastery
by B Kishwar
Updated Feb 20, 2024
Top 10 Best Babyface Songs
1
Whip Appeal
1990
2
This is For The Lover In You
1996
3
Give U My Heart
1992
4
Love Saw It
1989
5
Two Occasions
1988
6
When Can I See You
1994
7
Every Time I Close My Eyes
1997
8
Love Makes Things Happen
1990
9
Tender Lover
1989
10
It's No Crime
1989
S.No.
Song Title
Year
Best Babyface Songs
"Best Babyface Songs" encapsulates a collection of timeless tracks crafted by the renowned singer, songwriter, and producer, Babyface. With a career spanning decades, Babyface has left an indelible mark on the music industry, not only through his own performances but also through his compositions for numerous iconic artists. From heartfelt ballads to infectious R&B grooves, his songs evoke emotions and resonate with audiences worldwide. This curated list celebrates some of his most memorable and beloved creations, showcasing his exceptional talent and enduring influence in the realm of contemporary music.
1. Whip Appeal (1990)
"Whip Appeal," released in 1990, stands as one of Babyface's quintessential hits, showcasing his prowess as both a vocalist and a songwriter. Co-written with singer Pebbles, the song exudes sensuality and romance, capturing listeners with its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics.
Its success on the charts, reaching number two on the Billboard R&B chart and number six on the Hot 100, solidifies its status as a classic R&B ballad of the era. Nominated for prestigious awards including a Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male, "Whip Appeal" remains a timeless favorite, known for its silky harmonies and Babyface's soulful delivery.
2. This is For The Lover in You (1996)
Originally a hit for Shalamar in 1981, "This Is For The Lover In You" received a fresh interpretation from Babyface in 1996, featuring the members of Shalamar along with LL Cool J. The collaboration resulted in a chart-topping success, reaching number two on the Billboard R&B chart and number six on the Hot 100.
Babyface's rendition revitalized the classic tune, infusing it with contemporary flair while paying homage to its disco roots. With its infectious groove and charismatic performances, "This Is For The Lover In You" remains a standout in Babyface's repertoire, celebrated for its ability to transcend generations and captivate audiences with its timeless appeal.
3. Give U My Heart (1992)
Recorded in collaboration with Toni Braxton for the soundtrack of Eddie Murphy's film "Boomerang," "Give U My Heart" showcases Babyface's talent for crafting soul-stirring ballads. Released in 1992, the song soared to number two on the Billboard R&B chart, propelled by its poignant lyrics and the emotive chemistry between Babyface and Braxton.
Serving as a highlight of both the film and Babyface's discography, "Give U My Heart" captures the essence of romantic longing, earning acclaim for its lush production and heartfelt delivery. Its enduring popularity endorses its status as a beloved classic, reaffirming Babyface's reputation as a masterful storyteller through music.
4. Love Saw It (1989)
"Love Saw It," released in 1989, stands as a quintessential R&B duet, featuring the captivating vocal chemistry between Babyface and Karyn White. This soulful ballad, produced by LA Reid and Babyface themselves, embodies the essence of classic 1980s R&B, with its smooth melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
The track not only showcases Babyface's prowess as a vocalist but also highlights his exceptional songwriting and production skills. With its lush instrumentation and emotive delivery, "Love Saw It" became a chart-topping hit, solidifying Babyface's reputation as a master of romantic balladry during the era.
5. Two Occasions (1988)
"Two Occasions," released in 1988 as part of The Deele's third album, marked a significant moment in Babyface's career as both a performer and a songwriter. Serving as the group's biggest hit, the song features Babyface in the lead vocal role, effortlessly weaving his smooth tenor over a backdrop of infectious R&B grooves.
Lyrically, "Two Occasions" captures the complexities of love and longing, resonating with audiences through its relatable themes and heartfelt delivery. With its catchy hooks and irresistible melodies, the track soared to the top of the charts, cementing Babyface's status as a rising star in the music industry and laying the groundwork for his subsequent solo success.
6. When Can I See You (1994)
"When Can I See You," released in 1994, marked a pivotal moment in Babyface's solo career, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success. This poignant ballad, featured on his album "For The Cool in You," showcases Babyface's introspective songwriting and soulful vocal delivery.
With its stripped-down instrumentation and emotive lyrics, the song explores themes of longing and vulnerability, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level. "When Can I See You" not only became one of Babyface's signature songs but also earned him his first Grammy Award as a solo artist, solidifying his place as a powerhouse performer and songwriter in the realm of contemporary R&B.
7. Every Time I Close My Eyes (1997)
"Every Time I Close My Eyes" stands as a quintessential collaboration between Babyface, Mariah Carey, and Kenny G. Released in 1997 as the second single from Babyface's album "The Day," this enchanting ballad effortlessly blends R&B and jazz elements, showcasing Babyface's signature smooth vocals alongside Carey's angelic tones and Kenny G's soulful saxophone melodies.
The song's romantic lyrics and lush instrumentation create a dreamy atmosphere, perfectly complementing its theme of longing and affection. Nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, "Every Time I Close My Eyes" remains a timeless classic cherished by fans worldwide for its exquisite musicality and heartfelt emotion.
8. Love Makes Things Happen (1990)
"Love Makes Things Happen," a captivating duet between Babyface and Pebbles, emerged as a chart-topping hit in 1990. Co-written and produced by Babyface and LA Reid, the song captures the essence of enduring love with its soulful vocals and infectious rhythm.
Featured on Pebbles' album "Always," this heartfelt track soared to the top of the Billboard R&B chart, showcasing Babyface's prowess not only as a performer but also as a masterful songwriter and producer. With its heartfelt lyrics and irresistible melody, "Love Makes Things Happen" remains a timeless testament to the power of love and continues to captivate listeners with its irresistible charm.
9. Tender Lover (1989)
"Tender Lover," the title track of Babyface's second solo album, made a significant impact on the R&B music scene upon its release in 1989. Boasting smooth vocals and sultry melodies, this sensuous ballad exudes intimacy and passion, solidifying Babyface's reputation as a premier crooner of his generation.
Peaking at number one on the Billboard R&B chart, "Tender Lover" showcased Babyface's ability to deliver emotionally resonant performances while captivating audiences with his undeniable charm. With its timeless appeal and seductive allure, "Tender Lover" remains a standout track in Babyface's illustrious discography, earning its place as a classic in the realm of contemporary R&B music.
10. It's No Crime (1989)
"It's No Crime" marked Babyface's breakthrough as a solo artist, catapulting him to stardom upon its release in 1989. The lead single from his debut album "Tender Lover," this infectious track captivated listeners with its upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and irresistible groove.
Peaking at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and claiming the number one spot on the R&B chart, "It's No Crime" showcased Babyface's versatility as both a vocalist and songwriter. With its infectious energy and undeniable charm, "It's No Crime" remains a beloved favorite among fans, epitomizing the timeless appeal of Babyface's early solo work and solidifying his status as a music icon.
Which Babyface Songs are Considered Timeless Classics in the R&B Genre?
Babyface, a prolific songwriter, singer, and producer, has crafted numerous timeless classics in the R&B genre throughout his illustrious career. Here are some of his songs that are widely regarded as timeless classics:
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"Whip Appeal" (1990): Released as the third single from Babyface's second solo album, "Tender Lover," "Whip Appeal" is a seductive R&B ballad that showcases Babyface's smooth vocals and romantic lyricism. The song's soulful melody and intimate atmosphere have made it a perennial favorite among R&B fans, earning it a place as one of Babyface's signature tracks.
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"Every Time I Close My Eyes" (1997): A standout collaboration between Babyface, Mariah Carey, and Kenny G, "Every Time I Close My Eyes" is a timeless ballad known for its dreamy ambiance and heartfelt emotion. The song's lush instrumentation, coupled with Babyface and Carey's soulful vocals, creates a captivating listening experience that resonates with audiences across generations.
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"Tender Lover" (1989): The title track from Babyface's second solo album, "Tender Lover," is a sensuous R&B ballad that epitomizes the essence of romance. Babyface's silky-smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, combined with the song's sultry melody, have cemented its status as a classic in the R&B genre, beloved by fans for its timeless appeal.
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"Two Occasions" (1988): Originally released as part of the group The Deele's third album, "Two Occasions" became one of Babyface's breakthrough hits. This soulful R&B ballad, featuring Babyface on lead vocals, explores themes of love and longing with its heartfelt lyrics and infectious groove. Its enduring popularity has solidified its place as a timeless classic in Babyface's repertoire.
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"When Can I See You" (1994): A poignant ballad from Babyface's album "For The Cool in You," "When Can I See You" showcases Babyface's introspective songwriting and emotive vocal delivery. The song's stripped-down instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level, earning it recognition as one of Babyface's most cherished compositions.
These Babyface songs have stood the test of time, captivating audiences with their timeless melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and soulful performances. They continue to be celebrated as classics in the R&B genre, reaffirming Babyface's status as one of the genre's most influential artists.
Best Babyface Songs
Recorded in collaboration with Toni Braxton for the soundtrack of Eddie Murphy's film "Boomerang," "Give U My Heart" showcases Babyface's talent for crafting soul-stirring ballads
Released in 1989, "Love Saw It" stands as a quintessential R&B duet, featuring the captivating vocal chemistry between Babyface and Karyn White.
"Two Occasions," released in 1988 as part of The Deele's third album, marked a significant moment in Babyface's career as both a performer and a songwriter.
"When Can I See You," released in 1994, marked a pivotal moment in Babyface's solo career, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success.
Every Time I Close My Eyes" stands as a quintessential collaboration between Babyface, Mariah Carey, and Kenny G. Released in 1997 as the second single from Babyface's album "The Day,