Alicia Keys is a highly acclaimed American singer and songwriter known for her soulful voice and piano skills. Classically trained, she began composing at age 12 and signed with Columbia Records at 15. Following label disputes, she joined J Records, releasing her debut album "Songs in A Minor" in 2001 to massive success. The album went multi-platinum, won five Grammy Awards, and featured the chart-topping single "Fallin'." Her follow-up album, "The Diary of Alicia Keys" (2003), continued her success with hit singles like "You Don't Know My Name" and "If I Ain't Got You," earning her four more Grammy Awards.
January 25, 1981: Birth of Alicia Keys
On January 25, 1981, Alicia Augello Cook, known professionally as Alicia Keys, was born in Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan, New York City.
1985: Appearance on "The Cosby Show"
In 1985, at the age of four, Alicia Keys made a brief appearance on the popular television show "The Cosby Show." She played the role of Maria, one of Rudy's friends at a slumber party, in an episode.
1994: Meeting Jeff Robinson
In 1994, at the age of 13, Alicia Keys met music manager Jeff Robinson. Robinson was impressed by her talent as a singer, songwriter, and pianist and saw her potential in the music industry. This encounter marked a turning point, as Robinson became her manager and played a pivotal role in guiding her career.
1995: Introduction to Peter Edge
In 1995, Alicia Keys, guided by her manager Jeff Robinson, met with A&R executive Peter Edge. This introduction aimed to explore potential opportunities in the music industry.
1996: Columbia Records and Creative Differences
In 1996, Alicia Keys signed with Columbia Records, but faced creative clashes and resistance to her musical input.
1997: Early Music Releases
Despite the challenges at Columbia Records, Alicia Keys released "Little Drummer Girl" in 1996 and co-wrote "Dah Dee Dah (Sexy Thing)" for the "Men in Black" soundtrack in 1997.
1998: Leaving Columbia Records and Meeting Clive Davis
Frustrated with the lack of creative control, Alicia Keys fought to leave Columbia Records in 1998 and was introduced to Clive Davis, who would become a pivotal figure in her career.
1998: Signing with Arista Records and Choosing Her Stage Name
In late 1998, Alicia Keys signed with Arista Records, finding support and creative freedom under Clive Davis. She also decided on her stage name, "Alicia Keys," inspired by a dream her manager had.
2000: Contributing to Film Soundtracks
Alicia Keys contributed her music to the soundtracks of "Shaft" (2000) and "Dr. Dolittle 2" (2001).
2000: Billboard Recognition for the 2000-2009 Decade
At the end of the 2000s, Alicia Keys received significant recognition from Billboard magazine for her musical impact during the decade. She was named the top R&B recording artist of the 2000–2009 decade. Billboard also ranked her at number five on their list of artists of the decade, and her hit song "No One" secured the sixth spot on their top songs of the decade list.
2000: Alicia Keys's Dominance in the 2000s: Billboard Recognizes Her Success
Billboard ranked Alicia Keys as the fifth-most successful artist and the top R&B artist of the 2000s decade, highlighting her significant commercial success and influence during this period.
2000: Joining J Records with Clive Davis
Following Clive Davis to J Records after his departure from Arista, Alicia Keys remained focused on staying true to her musical vision and artistic identity.
June 5, 2001: Release of "Songs in A Minor"
Alicia Keys released her critically acclaimed debut album, "Songs in A Minor," on June 5, 2001, showcasing her unique blend of R&B, soul, jazz, and classical influences.
2001: Reflecting on the Challenges
In 2001, Alicia Keys reflected on the difficulties she faced at Columbia Records, describing it as a test of her confidence and faith.
2001: Debut Album Release and Critical Acclaim
In 2001, Alicia Keys released her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," with J Records. The album achieved significant commercial success, selling over 12 million copies globally. It garnered widespread critical praise, leading to five awards at the 44th Annual Grammy Awards. Notably, the album featured the chart-topping single "Fallin'," which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
2001: Alicia Keys Breaks Genre Barriers with Her Debut Album
Jet magazine recognized Alicia Keys's musical innovation in 2001, highlighting her successful fusion of classical and soul music in her debut album.
2001: Alicia Keys Discusses Her Father
In 2001, Alicia Keys addressed her relationship with her father, stating that they were not in contact. While acknowledging the anger she felt in her younger years, she emphasized that the experience contributed to her understanding of her mother's strength and her own desire to embody similar resilience.
2001: Chart-Topping Success with "Fallin'"
"Fallin'," Alicia Keys' debut single, reached number one on the charts in 2001.
2001: Alicia Keys Achieves Breakthrough Success as a Best-Selling New Artist
Alicia Keys achieved remarkable commercial success in 2001, becoming the best-selling new artist and best-selling R&B artist of the year.
2001: Contributing to Film Soundtracks
Alicia Keys contributed her music to the soundtracks of "Shaft" (2000) and "Dr. Dolittle 2" (2001).
February 2002: Release of "A Woman's Worth"
"A Woman's Worth," the second single from "Songs in A Minor," was released in February 2002, becoming another top-ten hit for Alicia Keys.
June 2002: Alicia Keys Protests Education Budget Cuts at New York City Hall
In June 2002, Alicia Keys demonstrated her commitment to education by protesting proposed budget cuts for students at New York City Hall. Her actions highlighted her advocacy for social justice and support for young people.
2002: Lasting Success of "A Woman's Worth"
"A Woman's Worth" continued to perform well on the charts in 2002.
2002: Alicia Keys Makes Grammy History with Five Awards in One Night
Alicia Keys had a historic night at the Grammy Awards in 2002, becoming the second female artist to win five awards in a single ceremony. Her remarkable achievement solidified her status as a rising star in the music industry.
2002: Grammy Awards Success and Collaboration with Christina Aguilera
At the 2002 Grammy Awards, Alicia Keys won five awards for "Songs in A Minor." She also collaborated with Christina Aguilera on the song "Impossible."
2002: The New York Times Observes Keys's Performance Style
The New York Times noted in 2002 that Alicia Keys's stage performances often began with classical elements like Beethoven before transitioning into her signature R&B style infused with hip-hop, jazz, and gospel influences.
December 2003: Release of "The Diary of Alicia Keys"
In December 2003, Alicia Keys released her second album, "The Diary of Alicia Keys," which debuted at number one and achieved significant commercial success.
2003: Release of Second Album, "The Diary of Alicia Keys"
Alicia Keys' second album, "The Diary of Alicia Keys," was released in 2003. This album continued her streak of success, selling eight million copies worldwide. It featured popular singles such as "You Don't Know My Name," "If I Ain't Got You," and "Diary" (a collaboration with Tony! Toni! Toné!). The album's release also resulted in Keys winning four more Grammy Awards.
2003: The Guardian Highlights Keys's Creative Control
In 2003, The Guardian recognized Alicia Keys as an uncompromising artist who exercised significant control over her work and image.
2003: Co-founding Keep a Child Alive
In 2003, Alicia Keys co-founded the non-profit organization Keep a Child Alive. The organization focuses on combating HIV/AIDS, and Keys holds the position of Global Ambassador.
February 2004: Release of "If I Ain't Got You"
The single "If I Ain't Got You" was released in February 2004 and became a signature song for Alicia Keys, topping the charts and showcasing her powerful vocals and songwriting.
May 2004: Alicia Keys' Film Debut and The Great Wall Concert
In May 2004, Alicia Keys announced her film debut in a biopic about Philippa Schuyler, a biracial piano prodigy. The film was to be co-produced by Halle Berry and Marc Platt.
2004: Collaboration with Usher
In 2004, Alicia Keys collaborated with Usher on the song "My Boo." This duet became Keys' second single to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
July 2005: MTV Unplugged Performance
Alicia Keys recorded her MTV Unplugged session at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in July 2005, featuring new arrangements of her songs and covers.
October 2005: MTV Unplugged Release
Alicia Keys's "Unplugged" album was released in October 2005 and debuted at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.
2005: The Independent Describes Keys's Musical Style
In 2005, The Independent characterized Alicia Keys's music as a blend of blues, hip-hop, and soul melodies, enhanced by her raw vocals.
2005: Christopher John Farley Praises Alicia Keys's Musicality and Innovation
In 2005, journalist Christopher John Farley lauded Alicia Keys's musical talent, emphasizing her ability to create something new and personal from her musical influences. He highlighted her skill as a musician, surpassing simple sampling and demonstrating a deep understanding of musical history.
2005: Performances for Poverty and Disaster Relief
Throughout 2005, Alicia Keys dedicated her voice to several charitable causes. She participated in the global Live 8 concerts, advocating for poverty reduction in Africa. Additionally, she lent her talent to "ReAct Now: Music & Relief" and "Shelter from the Storm: A Concert for the Gulf Coast," both initiatives raising funds for Hurricane Katrina victims.
2005: Recognition as a Time 100 Influencer
In 2005, Alicia Keys was recognized for her influence and impact when Time magazine included her in their annual list of the 100 most influential people.
2005: Collaboration with Bono for Keep a Child Alive
In 2005, Alicia Keys and Bono joined forces to release a cover version of Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush's "Don't Give Up." This collaboration aimed to raise funds for Keep a Child Alive, a non-profit organization co-founded by Keys.
2005: Release of "Unplugged" Album
Alicia Keys released her first live album, "Unplugged," in 2005. The album featured the single "Unbreakable" and achieved a significant milestone by debuting at the top of the Billboard 200 chart. This accomplishment made Keys the first female artist to have an MTV Unplugged project achieve a number-one debut on this chart.
2005: Alicia Keys Honored with Songwriters Hall of Fame Award and ASCAP Recognition
Alicia Keys received two prestigious honors in 2005. The Songwriters Hall of Fame presented her with the Hal David Starlight Award, recognizing her songwriting talent and impact on the music industry. Additionally, ASCAP named her Songwriter of the Year at its Rhythm & Soul Music Awards, further cementing her status as a leading songwriter.
2005: Tears for Water Release and Grammy Awards
In 2005, Alicia Keys released her poetry collection, "Tears for Water: Songbook of Poems and Lyrics", which became a New York Times bestseller. She also won four Grammy Awards, including Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Song.
January 2006: Release of "Every Little Bit Hurts"
The single "Every Little Bit Hurts", from the "Unplugged" album, was released in January 2006.
October 2006: The Backyardigans and Personal Struggles
In October 2006, Alicia Keys voiced Mommy Martian in an episode of the children's show "The Backyardigans". This year was also marked by personal difficulties for Keys, leading her to take a restorative trip to Egypt.
November 2006: Performance with David Bowie
Alicia Keys performed with David Bowie at a fundraising event in New York in November 2006. This marked Bowie's final public performance.
July 2007: Performance at Live Earth Concert
In July 2007, Alicia Keys, in collaboration with Keith Urban, delivered a memorable performance of The Rolling Stones' iconic 1969 anthem "Gimme Shelter" at the Live Earth concert in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
December 11, 2007: Performance at Nobel Peace Prize Concert
On December 11, 2007, Alicia Keys graced the stage at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert held in Oslo, Norway, alongside a host of other acclaimed artists.
2007: Release of "As I Am" and Film Debut
In 2007, Alicia Keys released her third studio album, "As I Am." The album sold seven million copies worldwide and included the hit single "No One," which became her third song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The same year, she made her acting debut in the action-thriller film "Smokin' Aces."
2007: Alicia Keys Receives The Recording Academy Honors for Excellence and Integrity
The Recording Academy honored Alicia Keys in 2007 with The Recording Academy Honors, recognizing her commitment to artistic excellence, integrity, and positive contributions to the creative community.
2007: John Pareles of The New York Times Analyzes Alicia Keys's Lyrical Themes
In 2007, John Pareles of The New York Times analyzed the lyrical themes in Alicia Keys's music, noting her exploration of female identity, love, heartbreak, and social commentary. Pareles observed that Keys often plays multiple roles in her songs, expressing a range of emotions and navigating complex personal experiences.
2007: Release of 'Like You'll Never See Me Again'
Alicia Keys released "Like You'll Never See Me Again" in 2007, which became a significant marker in her career as her last top-twenty single until "Girl on Fire" was released in 2012.
April 2008: Release of "Alicia in Africa: Journey to the Motherland"
In April 2008, a documentary chronicling Alicia Keys' work in Africa, titled "Alicia in Africa: Journey to the Motherland," was released.
2008: BET Honors Recognizes Alicia Keys with the Entertainment Award
Alicia Keys received the Entertainment Award at the BET Honors in 2008, acknowledging her significant contributions to the music industry.
2008: Alicia Keys Sets Guinness World Record with Chart-Topping Singles
Alicia Keys set a Guinness World Record in 2008 when her singles "No One" and "Like You'll Never See Me Again" consecutively topped the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, making her the first artist to replace herself at number one.
2008: End of Relationship with Kerry Brothers Jr.
Alicia Keys' long-term relationship with her close friend and musical collaborator, Kerry Brothers Jr., came to an end in 2008 after more than a decade together.
December 2009: Release of 'The Element of Freedom'
Alicia Keys released her fourth studio album, "The Element of Freedom," in December 2009. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200.
2009: Humanitarian Award at BET Awards
In recognition of her unwavering commitment to humanitarian endeavors, Alicia Keys was honored with the prestigious Humanitarian Award at the 2009 BET Awards.
2009: Release of "The Element of Freedom" and "Empire State of Mind"
In 2009, Alicia Keys released her fourth studio album, "The Element of Freedom." This album topped the UK Albums Chart and sold four million copies globally. It featured the singles "Doesn't Mean Anything," "Try Sleeping with a Broken Heart," and "Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)." That same year, she collaborated with Jay-Z on the single "Empire State of Mind," which became her fourth number-one hit in the United States.
2009: Career Milestones in Music
In 2009, Alicia Keys achieved significant milestones in her music career. She collaborated with Whitney Houston and Jay-Z, with "Empire State of Mind" becoming her fourth number-one hit. The song also garnered Grammy Awards. Keys received the Golden Note Award from ASCAP, recognizing her extraordinary achievements. Her collaboration with Alejandro Sanz on "Looking for Paradise" topped the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart, a first for an African-American artist of non-Hispanic origin.
2009: ASCAP Presents Alicia Keys with the Golden Note Award for Songwriting Achievements
ASCAP honored Alicia Keys with the prestigious Golden Note Award in 2009, recognizing her exceptional achievements as a songwriter and her impact on the music world.
February 2010: 'Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down' Release
In February 2010, Alicia Keys released "Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down," the fourth single from her album 'The Element of Freedom.'
May 2010: Engagement and Pregnancy Announcement
In May 2010, representatives for Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz confirmed their engagement and that they were expecting their first child together.
July 31, 2010: Marriage to Swizz Beatz
Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz celebrated their wedding near the Mediterranean Sea on July 31, 2010.
October 14, 2010: Birth of First Child
Alicia Keys gave birth to her first son on October 14, 2010, in New York City.
December 2010: 'Wait Til You See My Smile' Release
In December 2010, Alicia Keys released "Wait Til You See My Smile" as the sixth and final single from her album 'The Element of Freedom' in the United Kingdom.
2010: Performance for Haiti Earthquake Relief
In response to the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake, Alicia Keys participated in the "Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief" telethon, captivating the audience with a rendition of "Prelude to a Kiss," poignantly retitled "Send Me an Angel," from her 2007 album "As I Am."
June 2011: 'Songs in A Minor' 10th Anniversary and Other Events
June 2011 marked the 10th anniversary of Alicia Keys' debut album, "Songs in A Minor." To commemorate this milestone, deluxe and collector's editions of the album were released. Keys embarked on a special four-city promotional tour, "Piano & I: A One Night Only Event With Alicia Keys," to further celebrate the anniversary. This unique tour featured Keys performing solely with her piano. In a separate event that month, Madame Tussauds New York unveiled a wax figure of Keys.
June 2011: Advocacy at United Nations AIDS Conference
In June 2011, Alicia Keys joined forces with renowned musician Annie Lennox to address the United Nations AIDS conference in New York City. Participating in a panel discussion titled "HIV Priorities for Positive Change: In Women's Words," Keys passionately advocated for organizations providing vital treatment and care to families grappling with the effects of AIDS.
September 26, 2011: Directorial Debut with 'Project 5'
Alicia Keys made her directorial debut with 'Project 5,' a short film, on September 26, 2011. The film, also known as 'Five,' is a five-episode documentary sharing the stories of five women who have battled breast cancer, highlighting how the disease impacted their lives. Keys co-directed the project with actresses Jennifer Aniston and Demi Moore, along with film director Patty Jenkins.
October 7, 2011: Record Label Change to RCA Records
On October 7, 2011, Sony Music's RCA Music Group underwent a restructuring, absorbing Alicia Keys' longtime label, J Records, along with Arista and Jive Records. This move led to Keys, and other artists from the three labels, releasing future music under the RCA Records banner.
December 2011: Broadway Co-Production of 'Stick Fly'
Alicia Keys added Broadway producer to her list of accomplishments with her involvement in the premiere of 'Stick Fly' in December 2011.
2011: Billboard Names Alicia Keys One of the "Top 20 Hot 100 Songwriters" of the 2000s
Alicia Keys's songwriting prowess earned her a place on Billboard magazine's list of the "Top 20 Hot 100 Songwriters, 2000–2011." She was recognized for her ability to craft chart-topping hits that resonated with audiences.
September 2012: Support for "Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide"
Alicia Keys lent her support to the impactful campaign "30 Songs / 30 Days" in September 2012, which aimed to amplify the message of "Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide," a multifaceted media initiative inspired by the literary work of Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn.
September 2012: Collaboration with Reebok for Sneaker Collection
Alicia Keys ventured into the world of fashion in September 2012 by teaming up with Reebok to launch her own signature collection of sneakers.
October 2012: Launch of Educational App, 'The Journals of Mama Mae and LeeLee'
In October 2012, Alicia Keys partnered with Bento Box Entertainment's Bento Box Interactive to create "The Journals of Mama Mae and LeeLee." This educational mobile application, designed for iOS devices, centers on the heartwarming relationship between a young girl living in New York City and her wise grandmother. Adding a personal touch, Keys incorporated two original songs into the app: "Follow the Moon" and "Unlock Yourself."
November 27, 2012: Release of 'Girl on Fire'
Alicia Keys released her fifth studio album, "Girl on Fire," on November 27, 2012. This marked her first album release with RCA Records. Keys expressed her hope that the album would have an empowering effect on her fans, aiming to "liberate" and "empower" them through her music.
December 2012: Performance at 12-12-12: The Concert for Sandy Relief
As part of a collective effort to support those affected by Hurricane Sandy, Alicia Keys joined a constellation of artists for "12-12-12: The Concert for Sandy Relief" in December 2012, using music as a conduit for healing and hope.
2012: Release of "Girl on Fire"
Alicia Keys released her fifth studio album, "Girl on Fire," in 2012. This album marked her fourth album to reach the top of the Billboard 200 chart (though not consecutively). The album was driven by its lead single, also titled "Girl on Fire."
2012: Last Billboard Hot 100 Appearance Before "Show Me Love"
Before the success of "Show Me Love" in 2019, Alicia Keys's last appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 was with "Girl on Fire" in 2012.
January 2013: Appointment as BlackBerry's Global Creative Director
Alicia Keys added tech giant BlackBerry to her resume in January 2013 when she was named their Global Creative Director. The announcement was made by BlackBerry CEO Thorsten Heins at the unveiling event for their BlackBerry 10 mobile platform in New York City, where Keys was present.
March 2013: Launch of EMPOWERED HIV/AIDS Campaign
In March 2013, Alicia Keys collaborated with Greater Than AIDS to launch EMPOWERED, a vital public information campaign designed to educate and empower women in the United States about HIV/AIDS. Keys' involvement included appearing in a compelling public service announcement for EMPOWERED, where she engaged in a heartfelt conversation with five women whose lives had been profoundly impacted by HIV/AIDS.
June 2013: Release of 'VH1 Storytellers' CD and DVD
Alicia Keys' performance on VH1 Storytellers was released in both CD and DVD formats in June 2013, allowing fans to relive the special event.
December 2013: Collaboration with Giorgia on 'I Will Pray (Pregherò)'
December 2013 saw the release of "I Will Pray (Pregherò)", a single featuring Alicia Keys, from Italian singer Giorgia's studio album "Senza paura."
January 2014: Departure from BlackBerry
BlackBerry announced that they would be parting ways with Alicia Keys at the end of January 2014. She had served as their Global Creative Director for a year.
July 2014: Change in Management
In July 2014, Alicia Keys decided to switch up her management team. She transitioned from Will Botwin of Red Light Management to Ron Laffitte and Guy Oseary at Maverick.
September 8, 2014: "We Are Here" Music Video Release
On September 8, 2014, Alicia Keys shared her new music video for "We Are Here" on her Facebook page, along with a message explaining the song's meaning.
November 2014: Givenchy Beauty Campaign and Children's Book Announcement
In November 2014, Alicia Keys became the face of Givenchy's fragrance Dahlia Divin and announced her new children's book series, with the first book being "Blue Moon: From the Journals of MaMa Mae and LeeLee".
December 27, 2014: Birth of Genesis Ali Dean
Alicia Keys welcomed her second son, Genesis Ali Dean, on December 27, 2014.
2014: Fuse Ranks Alicia Keys Among the Most Awarded Musicians of All Time
Fuse recognized Alicia Keys's remarkable achievements in 2014, ranking her as the thirteenth-most awarded musician in history. This accolade highlighted her consistent success and impact on the music world.
November 25, 2015: Debut on "Empire"
On November 25, 2015, Alicia Keys made her first appearance as Skye Summers in the TV show "Empire".
2015: Billboard Recognizes Alicia Keys's Legacy in R&B Music
Billboard ranked Alicia Keys as one of the "35 Greatest R&B Artists of All Time" in 2015, cementing her place as an influential figure in the genre.
2015: The Recording Academy Honors Alicia Keys with the Recording Artists' Coalition Award
In 2015, The Recording Academy presented Alicia Keys with the Recording Artists' Coalition Award, acknowledging her artistry, philanthropy, and advocacy for creators' rights as a founding member of the GRAMMY Creators Alliance.
March 25, 2016: Announcement as "The Voice" Coach
On March 25, 2016, Alicia Keys joined Season 11 of "The Voice" as a coach.
May 2016: Release of "In Common" and UEFA Champions League Final Performance
Alicia Keys released "In Common" in May 2016 and performed it at the UEFA Champions League Final in Milan.
June 20, 2016: Release of "Let Me In" Short Film
Alicia Keys released her short film, "Let Me In," on June 20, 2016, World Refugee Day, raising awareness about the refugee crisis.
July 2016: Participation in "23 Ways You Could Be Killed if You are Black in America" Video
In July 2016, Alicia Keys added her voice to the poignant video titled "23 Ways You Could Be Killed if You are Black in America," a stark reminder of the systemic racism prevalent in the United States, urging viewers to confront and dismantle these injustices.
October 2016: Release of "Blended Family (What You Do for Love)"
In October 2016, Alicia Keys dropped "Blended Family (What You Do for Love)" featuring A$AP Rocky from her album "Here."
November 1, 2016: "The Gospel" Short Film Premiere
Alicia Keys premiered her short film, "The Gospel," on November 1, 2016, as a companion to her album "Here."
2016: Salon Highlights Alicia Keys's Lyrical Evolution and Socio-Political Consciousness
In 2016, Salon published a review of Alicia Keys's sixth album, "Here," praising her lyrical growth and socio-political consciousness. The publication noted a "hypnotic tension" in her writing and complimented her rhythmic timing and thoughtful exploration of social issues.
2016: NPR Recognizes Keys's Artistry
In 2016, NPR acknowledged Alicia Keys for maintaining her artistic focus and forging a remarkable career, standing apart from pop trends.
2016: BBC's Babita Sharma Highlights Alicia Keys's Impact on R&B, Soul, and Jazz Music
In 2016, BBC's Babita Sharma emphasized Alicia Keys's significant impact on the evolution of R&B, soul, and jazz music over the preceding two decades.
2016: Release of "Here"
Alicia Keys released her sixth studio album, "Here," in 2016. The album peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 chart.
2016: NPR Acknowledges Keys's Musical Diversity
In 2016, NPR highlighted the diversity of style and form present in Alicia Keys's body of work.
January 2017: Release of "That's What's Up"
Alicia Keys released her rendition of Kanye West's "Low Lights," titled "That's What's Up," in January 2017.
May 2017: Seventh Studio Album Announcement
Alicia Keys revealed she was working on her seventh studio album in a May 2017 interview with Entertainment Tonight.
May 23, 2017: Victory on "The Voice" Season 12
Alicia Keys celebrated a win as her artist, Chris Blue, won Season 12 of "The Voice" on May 23, 2017.
August 2017: Attendance at WE Day
Alicia Keys showed her support for WE Charity by attending their WE Day event in August 2017.
September 17, 2017: Performance at Rock in Rio
Alicia Keys delivered a memorable performance at Rock in Rio on September 17, 2017.
October 18, 2017: Return to "The Voice" Announced
Alicia Keys's return to "The Voice" for its fourteenth season was announced on October 18, 2017.
December 2017: Collaborations and Features
In December 2017, Alicia Keys was featured on Eminem's song "Like Home" from his "Revival" album.
2017: Kerry Washington Celebrates Alicia Keys's Impact and Authenticity
Kerry Washington commended Alicia Keys's influence in 2017, recognizing her album "Songs in A Minor" for its fusion of hip-hop and classical music. Washington praised Keys's impact on a generation, her representation of young black women in music, and her commitment to authenticity.
2017: Inspiration for "She Is the Music"
In 2017, upon observing the underrepresentation of women in music, Alicia Keys was inspired to create "She Is the Music."
2017: Second Time 100 Recognition
In 2017, Alicia Keys received her second recognition on Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people, highlighting her enduring impact on music, culture, and society.
2017: Women's March on Washington and Amnesty International Award
Following the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States, Alicia Keys actively participated in the Women's March on Washington, raising her voice for women's rights. Notably, she was a key speaker at the event. That same year, she received and shared the prestigious Ambassador of Conscience Award from Amnesty International alongside Canadian Indigenous rights activists, a testament to her unwavering commitment to human rights.
December 6, 2018: Launch of "She Is the Music" Non-Profit
On December 6, 2018, at the Billboard Women in Music event, Alicia Keys introduced her non-profit, "She Is the Music," aimed at increasing inclusivity for women in the music industry.
2018: Collaboration on Justin Timberlake's "Man of the Woods"
Alicia Keys lent her voice to Justin Timberlake's song "Morning Light" from his album "Man of the Woods," released in 2018.
2018: Alicia Keys Receives Recognition from The Recording Academy's Producers & Engineers Wing and The National Music Publishers Association
Alicia Keys received two significant honors in 2018. The Recording Academy's Producers & Engineers Wing recognized her "outstanding artistic contributions," while The National Music Publishers Association honored her with the Songwriter Icon award for her songwriting achievements and inspirational role.
2018: Variety's Power of Women Luncheon
In 2018, Alicia Keys' exceptional dedication to philanthropy, particularly through her work with Keep a Child Alive, earned her recognition at Variety's Power of Women luncheon.
2018: Cultured Magazine Cover and Gordon Parks Collection
The summer of 2018 saw Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz grace the cover of Cultured magazine, where they provided insights into their extensive art collection, The Dean Collection. This collection notably includes a vast assemblage of works by Gordon Parks, a celebrated photographer, filmmaker, musician, and activist. The couple's dedication to preserving Parks' legacy is evident in their acquisition of the largest private holding of his images.
January 15, 2019: Announced as Host of 61st Grammy Awards
Alicia Keys was announced as the host for the 61st Annual Grammy Awards on January 15, 2019.
February 10, 2019: Hosting the 61st Grammy Awards
On February 10, 2019, Alicia Keys made history as the first woman in 14 years to host the Grammy Awards.
June 28, 2019: Performance at Pride Live's Stonewall Day Concert
Alicia Keys took the stage at Pride Live's Stonewall Day Concert on June 28, 2019.
July 26, 2019: Art Collection and Donation to the Brooklyn Museum
On July 26, 2019, Bloomberg News reported on Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz's passionate art collecting endeavors, highlighting their significant acquisitions of works by artist Tschabalala Self. The couple decided to donate one of these pieces to the Brooklyn Museum, demonstrating their commitment to sharing art with the public.
September 2019: Purchase of the "Razor House"
Alicia Keys purchased the iconic "Razor House" in La Jolla, California, in September 2019.
September 24, 2019: Release of "Show Me Love"
"Show Me Love," Alicia Keys's collaboration with Miguel, was released on September 24, 2019, as the lead single from her upcoming album.
November 14, 2019: Announcement as Host of 62nd Grammy Awards
On November 14, 2019, Alicia Keys was announced to host the 62nd Grammy Awards for the second consecutive year.
November 2019: Release of "Time Machine"
Alicia Keys released "Time Machine" in November 2019, with a music video showcasing a retro roller rink aesthetic.
November 22, 2019: "Show Me Love" Charts on Billboard Hot 100
On November 22, 2019, "Show Me Love" reached the Billboard Hot 100, marking Alicia Keys's first appearance on the chart since 2012.
December 12, 2019: American Express Impact Award
Alicia Keys's work to empower women in music through "She Is the Music" earned her the American Express Impact Award on December 12, 2019.
December 2019: Expanding "She Is the Music"
In 2019, Alicia Keys continued to develop and grow her non-profit organization, "She Is the Music," providing opportunities for women in the music industry.
January 26, 2020: Hosting the 62nd Grammy Awards
Alicia Keys returned as the host for the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards on January 26, 2020.
March 31, 2020: Release of Memoir "More Myself: A Journey"
Alicia Keys shared her personal journey with the release of her memoir, "More Myself: A Journey," on March 31, 2020.
May 15, 2020: Postponement of "Alicia" Album Release
The release of Alicia Keys's album "Alicia" was initially scheduled for May 15, 2020, but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
September 2020: Launch of Keys Soulcare
Alicia Keys expanded her entrepreneurial ventures by launching her lifestyle brand, Keys Soulcare, in September 2020.
September 18, 2020: Release of "Alicia" Album
Alicia Keys's album "Alicia" debuted on September 18, 2020, achieving top-10 status in the US.
October 29, 2020: Release of "A Beautiful Noise"
Alicia Keys and Brandi Carlile joined forces to release "A Beautiful Noise" on October 29, 2020, encouraging voter participation in the US.
December 18, 2020: Reissue of "Alicia" Album
On December 18, 2020, Alicia Keys re-released her album "Alicia" with additional tracks, including "A Beautiful Noise."
2020: Release of "Alicia"
In 2020, Alicia Keys released her seventh studio album, titled "Alicia." This album included the single "Show Me Love," a collaboration with Miguel.
2020: Pollstar Lists Alicia Keys Among the Top Female Artists of the 21st Century in Concert Revenue
Pollstar included Alicia Keys on its list of top female artists of the 21st century in the concert industry in 2020. The publication reported that she had sold over 1.7 million tickets, generating over $111.5 million in revenue.
May 2021: Feature on DMX's Album "Exodus"
Alicia Keys was featured on the song "Hold Me Down" from DMX's posthumous album "Exodus," released in May 2021.
June 2021: 20th Anniversary Edition of "Songs in A Minor"
June 2021 marked the 20th anniversary of Alicia Keys's debut album, "Songs in A Minor," celebrated with a special anniversary edition.
September 9, 2021: Release of "Lala (Unlocked)"
On September 9, 2021, Alicia Keys released "Lala (Unlocked)", a single featuring Swae Lee.
September 23, 2021: Music Video Release
The music video for "Lala (Unlocked)" was released on September 23, 2021.
December 10, 2021: Release of "Keys" Album
On December 10, 2021, Alicia Keys released her eighth studio album, "Keys", a double album featuring both produced and raw versions of new material.
2021: Release of "Keys"
Alicia Keys released her eighth studio album, "Keys," in 2021. The album featured the singles "Underdog," "Lala," and "Best of Me."
April 7, 2022: Release of "City of Gods (Part II)"
Alicia Keys released "City of Gods (Part II)" on April 7, 2022, a sequel to the single "City of Gods" by Fivio Foreign, Kanye West, and Keys.
June 9, 2022: Alicia + Keys World Tour Begins
Alicia Keys embarked on her global tour, Alicia + Keys World Tour, on June 9, 2022.
July 14, 2022: Release of "Come for Me"
On July 14, 2022, Keys released "Come for Me," featuring Khalid and Lucky Daye, as the final single ahead of her album re-release.
November 4, 2022: Release of "Santa Baby"
Alicia Keys released her first Christmas album, "Santa Baby," on November 4, 2022, her first release as an independent artist under her own label.
2022: Grammy Award for Best Immersive Audio Album
Alicia Keys's album "Alicia" won a Grammy Award for Best Immersive Audio Album in 2022.
2022: Release of "Santa Baby"
In 2022, Alicia Keys released "Santa Baby," her first independent album. This release was a holiday album.
January 2023: Rolling Stone Includes Alicia Keys in "The 200 Greatest Singers of All Time" List
In January 2023, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Alicia Keys at number 185 on their list of "The 200 Greatest Singers of All Time," solidifying her status as a remarkable vocalist.
May 2023: Latin America Tour Extension
In May 2023, Alicia Keys extended her Alicia + Keys World Tour with eight dates in Latin America.
August 2023: Keys to the Summer Tour Concludes
Alicia Keys concluded her Keys to the Summer Tour in North America in August 2023.
November 19, 2023: Premiere of "Hell's Kitchen"
Alicia Keys's first Off-Broadway musical, "Hell's Kitchen," premiered at The Public Theater's Newman Theater in New York City on November 19, 2023.
November 27, 2023: Release of "Lifeline"
"Lifeline," written and performed by Alicia Keys, was released on November 27, 2023, as the second original song from the film "The Color Purple."
2023: Off-Broadway Debut with "Hell's Kitchen"
In 2023, Alicia Keys made her debut in off-Broadway theater with the musical "Hell's Kitchen." She wrote, composed, and co-produced this production.
2023: Rolling Stone's 200 Greatest Singers
Rolling Stone ranked Alicia Keys at number 185 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time in 2023.
March 22, 2024: Release of "Kaleidoscope"
"Kaleidoscope" was released by Alicia Keys on March 22, 2024, as the lead single from the upcoming soundtrack album of her musical "Hell's Kitchen."
September 2024: "Hell's Kitchen" on Broadway
Alicia Keys's musical "Hell's Kitchen" is set to transfer to the Shubert Theatre on Broadway from March to September 2024.
2024: Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Performance
Alicia Keys performed as a guest during Usher's Super Bowl LVIII halftime show in 2024, singing "If I Ain't Got You" and joining Usher for their duet "My Boo."