A new documentary spotlighting the extraordinary life and career of 13-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds is officially in the works.
Backed by HarbourView Equity Partners, the upcoming film will be directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Chris Moukarbel (Gaga: Five Foot Two, Cypher) and produced by Kenya Barris (black-ish, grown-ish).
According to Deadline, the documentary will offer an intimate look at Babyface’s musical journey—from his early beginnings in Indianapolis to becoming one of the most influential figures in R&B and pop music. The film will explore his songwriting and production process, along with his vast catalog of collaborations with icons such as Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Beyoncé, Eric Clapton, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, and Michael Jackson, among many others.
The project will also highlight Babyface’s lasting impact as the co-founder of LaFace Records alongside Antonio “L.A.” Reid. Based in Atlanta, the label helped shape the sound of the 1990s and early 2000s, launching the careers of superstars like Toni Braxton, OutKast, Usher, TLC, P!nk, Ciara, Goodie Mob, and T.I.
As a solo artist, Babyface released classic albums including Tender Lover (1989) and The Day (1996), producing timeless hits like “When Can I See You.” His songwriting and production credits also extend to major film soundtracks such as The Bodyguard, Boomerang, Soul Food, and Waiting to Exhale—the latter celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. He co-produced the Academy Award–winning duet “When You Believe” by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey from The Prince of Egypt.
Throughout his illustrious career, Babyface has earned 13 Grammy Awards, been named BMI Pop Songwriter of the Year seven times, and boasts 16 No. 1 pop singles, 45 No. 1 R&B singles, and 125 top 10 hits on the Billboard charts.
The documentary will feature exclusive interviews with Babyface as he reflects on his personal and professional journey—sharing how love, heartbreak, and perseverance have shaped some of the most beloved songs of the past four decades.
“I’ve often wondered how an unassuming kid from Indianapolis got to where he is today,” Babyface told Deadline. “This documentary is giving me a chance to go down memory lane with a fine-tooth comb, reexamining the highs and lows of my life and career. I’m discovering where all the songs really came from—and perhaps just as important, the how and why.”
Director Chris Moukarbel praised the music legend, saying, “His imprint on the music world is massive.” Barris added, “He’s one of one—a culture-defining hitmaker whose impact cannot be denied or overstated.”
Produced by Permanent Wave Productions, Khalabo Ink Society, Five All in the Fifth Entertainment, and others, the project promises an in-depth exploration of a career that helped define modern R&B and pop music.
A release date has not yet been announced.
Stay tuned for more updates on the upcoming Babyface documentary.
