Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, the esteemed singer-songwriter and producer, has been confirmed as the headline act for the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation’s fifth annual Legacy of Love Gala. This significant event is scheduled to take place at The Whitley Hotel in Atlanta on August 8, coinciding with what would have been the late Houston’s 63rd birthday. The theme for this year’s gala is “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” celebrating the enduring impact of Houston’s music.
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Babyface, now 67, shares a deep connection to Whitney Houston, having collaborated on several of her most iconic tracks. Their renowned partnership includes the creation of hits such as “I’m Your Baby Tonight,” “Exhale (Shoop Shoop),” and the powerful duet “When You Believe” with Mariah Carey. Reflecting on his work with Houston, Babyface has expressed how “I’m Your Baby Tonight” was particularly special, as it deviated from her typical style. He recounted to PEOPLE in 2025 that the song felt distinctive and marked his debut as a No. 1 pop artist. “It was such a different song. There was nothing typical about that. I don’t even know how I came up with that one,” he remarked.
Houston’s legacy continues to inspire, and Babyface’s performance at the gala is expected to honour her remarkable career while also celebrating the ongoing initiatives of the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation. Pat Houston, who is the co-presenter of the event along with being Whitney’s manager and sister-in-law, expressed her excitement about having Babyface on board. “Babyface was not just one of Whitney’s favourite songwriters and producers; he was also a dear and close friend,” she noted, highlighting how his contributions significantly shaped many of Houston’s career-defining songs.
The Legacy of Love Gala aims to not only celebrate Whitney Houston’s life and music but also to raise funds to support various organisations and initiatives that the foundation collaborates with globally. Pat Houston added that attendees could expect more “wonderful surprises” throughout the evening, suggesting that the event will provide memorable experiences in honour of her late sister-in-law.
Houston’s dedication to philanthropic efforts has always been a fundamental aspect of her life and career. The foundation seeks to uphold her legacy by promoting projects and initiatives that benefit young adults and various communities, reinforcing Houston’s commitment to making a positive impact in the world. The gala serves as a poignant reminder of the late singer’s enduring influence in both the music industry and the realm of social justice.
In addition to his performance at the gala, Babyface is set to embark on a series of shows from July through November. His prolific career has seen him collaborate with numerous celebrities, including Beyoncé, Boyz II Men, Madonna, Toni Braxton, and TLC. His remarkable breadth of work over four decades illustrates his stature in the music industry as both a creative talent and a respected figure.
The Legacy of Love Gala not only provides a platform for celebration but also fosters an environment of remembrance, uniting fans and music lovers alike to honour Whitney Houston’s remarkable achievements. As the date approaches, anticipation builds, reflecting the profound impact Houston has left on the hearts of many.
With Babyface’s deep connection to Houston’s music and legacy, along with the foundation’s commitment to philanthropic work, this event promises to be a heartfelt tribute to a superstar whose music continues to resonate with fans around the world. The evening is poised to be a poignant celebration of Whitney Houston’s life, marking another chapter in her enduring legacy.