Last week, legendary singer and Naptown’s own, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds was “feeling” good after his new star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was unveiled.
“It was surreal,” said the 10-time Grammy winner. Babyface admitted that having his name cemented on the sidewalk was beyond his wildest dreams. “That was not part of the plan. That’s what makes it an amazing thing.”
Babyface was in good company with Usher, P. Diddy, L.A. Reid, Stevie Wonder and Toni Braxton all gathered to help celebrate with the famous R&B singer and producer.
“I just feel like what Kenny has done musically, and what he’s done as an inspiration to people as a role model has really advanced the culture. And a lot of babies were made,” said Reid, with a chuckle.
“I had a moment when I was about to cry,” said Braxton. “I was so proud of him. Because Kenny is kind of shy. He has a great sense of humor – a lot of people don’t know that about him, and he’s very modest. So I know it took a lot of pushing to get him to even commit to this.”
Braxton and Babyface are long time collaborators and are releasing a new duets album “Love, Marriage & Divorce” due out Nov. 25.
“He’s been my big brother and helping me get through this phase. It’s tough,” says Braxton, whose divorce from ex-husband Keri Lewis was finalized in July.
“It’s been a good thing for Toni because she was needing an outlet,” said Edmonds. “I think we found it. She sounds amazing.”
According to Braxton there’s been a lot of changes since Babyface helped out on her very first album.
“The irony of this is coming full circle. Because when I first met him I remembered being intimidated, thinking, ‘Oh my god, can I sing as good as he needs me to sing?’ And now I’m so comfortable. We’re back together again. It feels like the first time all over again. It’s like being divorced and getting back together. “
