The Essential Babyface cover

The Essential Babyface

Babyface · 2003

66 min · 15 tracks · rhythm and blues

Smooth melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, showcasing Babyface's signature blend of R&B and new jack swing.

Top tracks — play these first

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    I Said I Love You Start here — establishes the emotional core of the album
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    Whip Appeal — This track stands out for its smooth production and romantic themes, epitomizing Babyface's ability to blend sensuality with musical sophistication.
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    Every Time I Close My Eyes — A quintessential Babyface ballad, it showcases his emotive vocal delivery and masterful songwriting, creating a lasting impression of love and longing.
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    When Can I See You — This song highlights the yearning nature of love through its poignant lyrics and melodic hooks, making it one of Babyface's most memorable tracks.
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    How Come, How Long — Featuring an impactful narrative about heartache and social issues, this track distinguishes itself by blending personal storytelling with broader themes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing for relaxed evenings
  • heartfelt ballads for romantic moments
  • smooth harmonies for intimate settings
  • two-halves listening experience
  • soulful anthems for nostalgic vibes

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tunes
  • seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Starting Point — A compilation that showcases his key works, ideal for new listeners.
Themes
90s R&B romance· heartfelt ballads· intimate storytelling
Career context
By the time 'The Essential Babyface' was released in 2003, Babyface had already established himself as a leading figure in R&B, known for his songwriting and production prowess. This compilation came after his successful stint in the 1990s, where he produced numerous hits for both himself and other artists, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted talent.
Stylistic neighbors
Teddy Riley· Johnny Gill· Keith Sweat

Tracklist

  • 1 I Said I Love You Start here 4:05
  • 2 Never Keeping Secrets 4:51
  • 3 Every Time I Close My Eyes 4:58
  • 4 Talk to Me 4:54
  • 5 When Can I See You 3:50
  • 6 For the Cool in You 4:54
  • 7 My Kinda Girl 4:39
  • 8 Whip Appeal 5:48
  • 9 Soon as I Get Home 5:09
  • 10 Well Alright (from Poetic Justice) 4:01
  • 11 Day (That You Gave Me a Son) 4:26
  • 12 How Come, How Long 5:12
  • 13 This Is for the Lover in You 4:01
  • 14 Medley - I’ll Make Love to You (live on MTV unplugged) 2:02
  • 15 Medley - End of the Road (live on MTV unplugged) 3:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata