[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 103 (Thursday, June 16, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E635]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING KENNETH ``BABYFACE'' EDMONDS, SINGER, SONGWRITER, AND PRODUCER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 16, 2022

  Mr. CARSON. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Kenneth Edmonds, 
better known as Babyface, an Indianapolis native, who will be inducted 
into the Madam Walker Legacy Center Walk of Fame on June 17, 2022.
  Kenneth was born in Indianapolis to Marvin and Barbara Edmonds and 
raised in our great city. He began songwriting at the young age of 12 
years old, and after taking on the name Babyface, he signed his first 
record deal after joining his first band Manchild. He later joined The 
Deele which enjoyed a fast breakthrough into the music world for their 
R&B and funk hits.
  Kenneth has created a legacy through his music. His second album, 
``Tender Lover'', which included the hit singles ``It's No Crime'' and 
``Whip Appeal'', went double platinum and became a critically acclaimed 
triumph. Babyface continued to share his talents as a co-songwriter 
with noteworthy artists such as Johnny Gill, Whitney Houston, and Boyz 
II Men. He was later nominated for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year 
for his unforgettable work on The Bodyguard Soundtrack.
  Kenneth went on to release ``For the Cool in You'', winning his first 
Grammy for ``When I Can See You Again'' for Best Male R&B Vocal. While 
continuing to win consecutive Grammys for Producer of Year, and working 
with versatile artists, he released, starred, and created the 
soundtrack for the 1997 movie, Soul Food.
  Throughout his successes, Kenneth has maintained a respectful 
approach to his work and an endearing sense of humility--typifying our 
beloved Hoosier values. He has three children for whom he sets a 
remarkable example. Kenneth is a dedicated philanthropist, supporting 
organizations making a difference in the fields of health, education, 
and more. His list of achievements and awards are impressive, and his 
hometown is overjoyed with his latest recognition from the Madam Walker 
Legacy Center.
  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kenny ``Babyface'' 
Edmonds. Our community is proud of his success and impact in the music 
industry, Indiana and our country.

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