(ThyBlackMan.com) There’s something magical about a song that hits you right in the chest—that first line that makes your breath hitch, the chorus that feels like it knows exactly what you’ve been through. That’s what Babyface has always done for me. Whether it’s heartbreak, healing, longing, or that sweet, giddy spark of new love, the man knows how to put feelings into melodies that stick with you long after the track fades out.
Growing up on ’90s R&B and soul, Babyface’s name was everywhere—etched in liner notes, whispered through speakers during late-night slow jams, and shouted from karaoke bars when the heartbreak got too real. His songwriting shaped the emotional blueprint of a generation and still resonates in 2025 like it did when we first pressed play on our boomboxes or CD players.
So here’s a look back (and a little forward) at 10 unforgettable songs written or produced by Babyface—tracks that have either ripped our hearts open or stitched them back together, one lyric at a time.
1. “End of the Road” – Boyz II Men (1992)
Written by Babyface alongside his trusted collaborators L.A. Reid and Daryl Simmons, “End of the Road” isn’t just one of the most iconic R&B ballads of all time—it’s a masterclass in heartbreak storytelling. Originally featured on the Boomerang movie soundtrack before appearing on the reissue of Boyz II Men’s debut album Cooleyhighharmony, the song would go on to break chart records by holding the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 consecutive weeks. At the time, that was unprecedented. This ballad became the soundtrack for breakups, goodbyes, and emotional revelations across the globe.
What sets this song apart is the perfect blend of Babyface’s emotionally resonant lyrics and Boyz II Men’s exceptional vocal delivery. Each line oozes pain and longing, especially as the verses unfold into that unforgettable spoken-word breakdown by Wanya Morris. It’s here where the vulnerability goes from poetic to raw—laying everything bare in the face of rejection. The acapella bridge, layered in harmony and pleading desperation, showcases Babyface’s ability to craft songs that give vocalists room to bleed emotions through each note.
Even over three decades later, “End of the Road” remains deeply embedded in pop culture. It has been covered, sampled, and referenced in films, TV shows, and even comedic sketches. Still, the original never loses its power. It continues to find new generations of fans who stumble upon it during heartbreak and feel like the song was written just for them.
Musically, it bridges the gap between old-school soul and early ’90s R&B, which was just beginning to find its slick, sophisticated voice. The song also helped cement Babyface as the premier songwriter/producer for love and loss—able to bottle emotions into melodies that become unforgettable life companions.
2. “Take a Bow” – Madonna (1994)
With “Take a Bow,” Babyface brought his signature elegance to Madonna’s discography, and in doing so, helped create one of the most sophisticated and quietly devastating ballads in her career. Co-written and co-produced with Madonna, the track was a notable departure from the edgy, provocative image she had cultivated in the early ’90s. Here, Madonna sheds the armor and embraces softness—something Babyface masterfully encouraged with his melodic and emotional touch.
Released as part of the Bedtime Stories album, “Take a Bow” became Madonna’s longest-running No. 1 hit in the U.S., topping the Billboard Hot 100 for seven consecutive weeks. The song is a slow burn—delicate in arrangement, but emotionally powerful in its delivery. Babyface understood that sometimes, less is more. The minimal production—faint strings, soft drums, and haunting synth pads—places Madonna’s restrained, almost whispery vocals front and center.
Lyrically, the song reads like a postscript to a love that was never truly mutual. “All the world is a stage, and everyone has their part,” she sings, using theater metaphors to depict the end of an emotional performance. The curtain has fallen, the applause is empty, and the love was unrequited. Babyface’s writing here leans into silence as much as sound—capturing that eerie stillness that follows a romantic ending no one wants to admit is final.
What makes “Take a Bow” still resonate in 2025 is how eerily it mirrors the emotional detachment many experience today. In an era of ghosting, “situationships,” and emotionally unavailable partners, the lyrics ring even truer. It’s a timeless tale wrapped in Babyface’s signature romantic melancholy—one that ages like fine wine.
3. “Superwoman” – Karyn White (1988)
A defining anthem of late-’80s R&B, “Superwoman” was one of Babyface’s earliest standout compositions and remains a shining example of his deep emotional intelligence as a songwriter. Written with L.A. Reid and Daryl Simmons, the song gave Karyn White a megahit that instantly connected with women everywhere who felt overburdened in their relationships. But it wasn’t just a hit—it was a cultural statement.
“Superwoman” is equal parts soulful lament and empowerment anthem. It opens with tenderness but gradually builds into an emotional crescendo where Karyn White reclaims her voice. “I’m not your superwoman,” she proclaims, breaking free from the unrealistic expectations placed on her. Babyface’s lyrics perfectly encapsulate the emotional labor women often carry, particularly in romantic relationships where their needs are dismissed.
The production, soaked in moody keyboards and echoing drums, creates a quiet storm atmosphere that allows every lyric to land with weight. What makes the song even more powerful is its contrast—it’s lush and beautiful in sound, yet heavy with emotion in theme. White’s delivery is vulnerable yet powerful, straddling the line between heartbreak and liberation.
In hindsight, “Superwoman” was ahead of its time. Its message still reverberates today, echoed in modern hits by artists like Beyoncé, H.E.R., and Jazmine Sullivan. These artists owe a creative debt to tracks like “Superwoman,” which boldly told women it was okay to draw boundaries and demand emotional reciprocity. For fans of emotionally intelligent R&B, this song is an essential touchstone.
Even in 2025, it feels as though Babyface foresaw the conversations happening now—about self-worth, relationship dynamics, and the hidden toll of being everything for everyone. “Superwoman” isn’t just a song. It’s a battle cry in a ballad’s clothing.
4. “Can We Talk” – Tevin Campbell (1993)
“Can We Talk” is more than just a ’90s R&B classic—it’s an essential coming-of-age anthem wrapped in smooth vocals and melodic perfection. Released as the lead single from Tevin Campbell’s I’m Ready album, the track reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and cemented Campbell’s place in the male vocal elite of his era. At the heart of this unforgettable song is Babyface’s lyrical genius, capturing the internal tug-of-war between fear and desire that defines young love.
The brilliance of the song lies in its simplicity. There’s no overcomplication—just a nervous young man rehearsing his words, praying for a moment of courage to speak his truth. “Can we talk for a minute? / Girl, I want to know your name,” might seem basic on paper, but with Campbell’s voice trembling between strength and vulnerability, it becomes a heart-shaking plea.
Musically, the song glides with an elegant keyboard riff and just enough percussive snap to keep your head nodding. The melody gives Campbell the canvas to showcase his vocal dynamics—from delicate croons to powerhouse belting in the final chorus. The mid-tempo beat lets the vulnerability linger, as Babyface once again crafts a groove that’s emotionally rich without being sonically cluttered.
In 2025, “Can We Talk” still feels fresh. It’s been remixed, covered, and even gone viral on social media, proving its cultural relevance hasn’t faded one bit. It speaks to the universal, timeless experience of mustering up the courage to connect—and it’s a perfect blend of youthful romance, emotional truth, and classic R&B swagger.
5. “I’m Your Baby Tonight” – Whitney Houston (1990)
“I’m Your Baby Tonight” marked a pivotal transition in Whitney Houston’s career. While she was already a global superstar known for her soaring ballads and angelic voice, this track introduced audiences to a Whitney who could groove, flirt, and command the stage with sass and soul. Written and produced by Babyface and L.A. Reid, the song was the title track of her third studio album and a signal that Houston was diving deeper into urban contemporary sounds.
The track opens with a funky guitar riff and syncopated beat that feels immediately different from her previous work. It’s a production masterclass—built with layered synths, slick bass lines, and a bounce that brings to mind Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel” in energy. But make no mistake: this was Whitney’s moment to flex. Babyface wrote a song that allowed her to be bold and expressive, with lines like “Whatever you want from me / I’m giving you everything,” declaring total romantic surrender with confidence, not desperation.
Vocally, Whitney shifts seamlessly between sultry low notes and playful high runs, showing her range not just in tone but in emotional color. It’s fun, flirtatious, and unrelentingly confident—qualities that weren’t always foregrounded in her earlier, more polished pop image. Babyface’s songwriting let her cut loose while still maintaining control.
Three decades later, “I’m Your Baby Tonight” remains a staple for fans who appreciate Whitney’s R&B roots and her ability to make even the funkiest tracks feel luxurious. Babyface helped redefine her musical identity here, proving once again that he didn’t just write songs—he created moments for artists to evolve.
6. “Breathe Again” – Toni Braxton (1993)
“Breathe Again” is the sonic equivalent of a broken heart beating in slow motion. Written and produced by Babyface for Toni Braxton’s self-titled debut album, the track soared to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. But beyond the accolades, it’s a masterstroke in emotional songwriting—combining lush instrumentation, poetic desperation, and one of the most unique voices in modern R&B history.
From the first haunting note, “Breathe Again” pulls you into a world of longing. The sweeping strings, cascading piano, and soft percussive rhythms form a cinematic bed for Braxton’s deeply textured contralto. Her voice—smoky, aching, and beautifully controlled—feels like it’s trembling on the edge of a breakdown. Babyface’s lyrics capture the crushing weight of romantic loss: “If I never feel you in my arms again / If I never feel your tender kiss again,”—each line feels like a final goodbye whispered through tears.
What makes the song so impactful is how it builds. The verses start quietly, almost like internal dialogue, then bloom into an emotionally intense chorus where Braxton confesses that she could literally forget how to breathe without her lover. Babyface uses repetition not just as a musical device, but as a narrative tool—conveying how obsessive and inescapable heartache can become.
In today’s era of emotionally complex R&B (think Summer Walker or SZA), “Breathe Again” still holds its own. It paved the way for a wave of artists willing to bare their souls without apology. It also showed Babyface’s unmatched skill in tailoring a song to fit the emotional and vocal strengths of an artist—especially one as unique as Toni Braxton.
7. “Not Gon’ Cry” – Mary J. Blige (1995)
Written by Babyface for the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack, “Not Gon’ Cry” became one of Mary J. Blige’s most iconic and emotionally stirring songs. It’s the type of track that defines an era—and for many, it still serves as a soundtrack for personal liberation. The song reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the R&B charts, driven largely by its unfiltered honesty and Mary’s soul-baring delivery.
The genius of Babyface’s writing here lies in its cinematic quality—this isn’t just a breakup song, it’s a script from a woman who gave everything and got nothing but betrayal in return. “I was your lover and your secretary / Working every day of the week,” sets the stage for what feels like a monologue from the depths of heartbreak. But this isn’t wallowing—it’s a declaration of survival. Mary J. Blige, with her gritty yet beautiful vocals, doesn’t just sing the song—she lives it, transforming pain into power.
Sonically, the track is stripped back just enough to let the storytelling breathe. Piano chords, a subtle string section, and background harmonies give it emotional weight without overshadowing the rawness. It’s a slow burn that explodes in intensity by the chorus—not in rage, but in acceptance. She’s not going to cry, and that’s the hardest part.
Today, in the age of “healing era” playlists and “soft life” self-care mantras, “Not Gon’ Cry” has found new life as an anthem for emotional boundaries. Babyface wasn’t just writing for a fictional character—he was writing for every woman who’s had to pick up the pieces of her life and move forward with grace.
8. “Rock Steady” – The Whispers (1987)
“Rock Steady” marked a turning point not just for The Whispers, but for R&B in general. Co-written and co-produced by a young Babyface and L.A. Reid, this track injected fresh, youthful energy into the careers of seasoned artists. The song became The Whispers’ biggest hit, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and introducing funk-driven, synthesized soul to a new audience.
The magic of this track lies in its sleek production and its infectious groove. From the moment that bassline hits and the drum machines start clicking, it’s clear you’re in for a ride. The track embodies late-’80s swagger—a perfect marriage of traditional harmonies and futuristic beats. Babyface’s songwriting keeps it light, fun, and irresistibly catchy: “We begin to rock, steady / Steady rockin’ all night long,” is less a chorus than a chant of pure joy.
The Whispers’ smooth, mature voices contrasted perfectly with the modern production, showing how Babyface could balance innovation and respect for the past. The song’s theme of rekindling romance gave it both romantic appeal and a feel-good energy that’s kept it spinning at family functions and cookouts for decades.
In 2025, as disco-funk and boogie-inspired R&B continues to enjoy resurgence through acts like Anderson .Paak and Bruno Mars, “Rock Steady” fits right in. It’s timeless, danceable, and slick without being overproduced. A perfect example of Babyface’s early genius, where he started shaping what would become the ’90s R&B soundscape.
9. “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” – Whitney Houston (1995)
A song that’s as soft as a sigh and as emotionally potent as a tear falling in silence, “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” is another gem from the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack. Written and produced solely by Babyface, this track debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100—a rare feat that underscored both Whitney Houston’s star power and Babyface’s brilliance in crafting emotion-driven songs with universal appeal.
What’s unique about “Exhale” is how it uses minimalism to say so much. The verses are hushed, intimate—like the quiet voice in your head encouraging you to let go. Babyface’s lyrics are reflective, dealing with the idea of emotional fatigue and the bittersweet clarity that comes after heartache: “Sometimes you’ll laugh, sometimes you’ll cry / Life never tells us the when or why.” Whitney doesn’t belt here. Instead, she breathes through each word, turning restraint into a tool of vulnerability.
The “shoop shoop shoop” refrain might sound lighthearted, but it functions as a meditative mantra—a deep breath after chaos. It’s a moment of grounding. Babyface’s arrangement is airy, using subtle strings, soft guitar licks, and whispery backing vocals to give the song its floating feel.
In a modern context, “Exhale” is a mental health anthem. It’s about releasing pressure, embracing impermanence, and allowing yourself to feel without judgment. It’s the musical equivalent of a warm bath or a quiet walk at sunset. And in Whitney’s voice, it becomes spiritual—proof that strength can live in silence just as much as in song.
10. “Another Sad Love Song” – Toni Braxton (1993)
“Another Sad Love Song” was Toni Braxton’s grand introduction to the world—and what an entrance it was. Co-written by Babyface and Daryl Simmons, the song was released as the debut single from her self-titled album and became an instant classic, climbing the charts and earning a Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. For many, it was the first time hearing a voice so sultry, so textured, that heartbreak itself felt seductive.
The lyrics are sharp and devastating, detailing how even the most beautiful music becomes painful when you’re nursing a broken heart. “Since you’ve been gone / I just can’t carry on,” Braxton croons, turning radio hits into emotional landmines. Babyface’s brilliance is in how meta the song is—she’s literally singing about sad love songs while singing one, creating a double layer of resonance.
Musically, the track is drenched in melancholy. It starts with a weeping saxophone and builds into a slow, steamy groove punctuated by strings and keys. The rhythm moves like grief itself—sometimes dragging, sometimes racing, always lingering. Braxton’s voice, low and lush, rides the instrumental like a slow storm rolling in, each lyric a lightning strike of emotion.
In the streaming era, the song continues to resonate. It lives on in breakup playlists and nostalgic throwback mixes, its emotional truth still piercing. The vulnerability, the self-awareness, and the musical craftsmanship make it one of the definitive heartbreak anthems of the ’90s.
With this track, Babyface didn’t just give Toni Braxton a song—he gave her a sound. A template for moody, passionate ballads that would define her career and influence countless R&B artists that followed.
Listening to these tracks now feels like flipping through an emotional photo album—some songs bring back old wounds, others remind us of the strength we didn’t know we had. That’s the Babyface effect. His pen doesn’t just write music—it writes moments. And whether you’re crying in your car, dancing in your kitchen, or singing your soul out in the shower, these songs remind us that love, in all its messy glory, is worth the soundtrack.
So maybe next time you feel like you’re the only one going through it, just queue up one of these songs and let Babyface say what your heart can’t. After all, some songs aren’t just heard—they’re felt. And if Babyface wrote it? You already know it’s about to hit different.
Staff Writer; Jamar Jackson
