Why Babyface Says Producing Fall Out Boy’s ‘Thnks fr th Mmrs’ Reminded Him to Avoid ‘Limitations’ (Exclusive)

Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds Reflects on Producing Fall Out Boy’s Hit “Thnks fr th Mmrs”

Renowned songwriter and producer Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds recently sat down for an exclusive interview with PEOPLE to discuss his experience producing Fall Out Boy’s iconic track, “Thnks fr th Mmrs.” The 13-time Grammy winner shared insights into his creative process and the valuable lessons he gained from collaborating with the pop-punk band.

In 2007, Fall Out Boy released their third album, “Infinity on High,” featuring two tracks produced by Babyface: “I’m Like a Lawyer with the Way I’m Always Trying to Get You Off (Me & You)” and the multi-platinum single “Thnks fr th Mmrs.” Babyface revealed that working on these songs allowed him to step out of his comfort zone and explore new musical territories.

During the production of “Thnks fr th Mmrs,” Babyface highlighted the importance of experimenting with different sounds and techniques, including playing around with various guitar amps in the studio. This creative process, combined with collaborating with frontman Patrick Stump, contributed to the unique and memorable sound of the track.

Reflecting on his journey as a producer, Babyface shared how his experience working on the soundtrack of “Josie and the Pussycats” in 2001 paved the way for his collaboration with Fall Out Boy. He emphasized the significance of not limiting oneself to a specific genre or style, as it can restrict artistic growth and opportunities for collaboration.

The success of “Thnks fr th Mmrs,” certified six-times platinum by the RIAA in 2023, is a testament to Babyface’s versatility and adaptability as a producer. He further showcased his musical prowess by performing the track during his NPR Tiny Desk Concert, where he captivated audiences with his rendition alongside other classic hits.

Fall Out Boy drummer Andy Hurley also shared his admiration for working with Babyface, describing the experience as “pretty amazing.” Hurley praised Babyface’s contributions to the songwriting and vocal arrangements, highlighting the legendary producer’s valuable insights and expertise.

As Babyface continues to make waves in the music industry, his openness to collaboration and willingness to explore diverse musical genres have solidified his reputation as a versatile and respected producer. His timeless hits and iconic productions serve as a testament to his enduring influence in shaping the sound of contemporary music.

In conclusion, Babyface’s journey of producing “Thnks fr th Mmrs” not only showcases his musical talents but also highlights the importance of artistic growth, collaboration, and pushing creative boundaries. His ability to transcend genres and work with a diverse range of artists underscores his legacy as a pioneering figure in the music industry.