Biography
Alicia Keys, born Alicia Augello Cook on January 25, 1981, in Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan, New York, is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and pianist. Raised primarily by her mother, Nikki Augello, a part-time actress and paralegal, Keys began piano lessons at age seven, quickly demonstrating prodigious talent. Her classical training and early exposure to diverse musical genres in New York City shaped her distinctive style, blending R&B, soul, and neo-soul influences. Keys attended the Professional Performing Arts School, majoring in choir, and graduated as valedictorian at sixteen before briefly attending Columbia University on a scholarship, which she left to pursue music full-time.[1][2][3][4][7][8]
Keys signed her first record deal at fifteen with Columbia Records but, after disputes, moved to Arista Records under the guidance of legendary music executive Clive Davis. She followed Davis to J Records, where she released her debut album, "Songs in A Minor" (2001), which sold over six million copies and won five Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist and Song of the Year for "Fallin'." Known for writing and producing her own music, Keys has continued to release critically acclaimed albums, earning a total of fifteen Grammy Awards and establishing herself as one of the most influential artists of her generation.[1][2][3][4][6]
Her musical style is rooted in her classical piano background, but she seamlessly incorporates elements of soul, R&B, hip hop, and jazz. Keys is celebrated for her soulful voice, introspective songwriting, and commitment to artistic authenticity. Beyond music, she is an accomplished actress, author, and philanthropist, with a legacy that includes inspiring a new generation of artists and advocating for social justice and empowerment.[2][6]
Fun Facts
- Alicia Keys wrote her first song at age 14 and was composing classical pieces as a teenager.[3][8]
- She graduated high school at 16 as valedictorian and was accepted to Columbia University but dropped out after a month to pursue music.[2][3]
- Her stage name 'Keys' was chosen for its musical reference and to reflect her piano virtuosity.[4]
- Her son Egypt co-produced tracks for Kendrick Lamar's album 'Untitled Unmastered' at just five years old.[3]
Associated Acts
- The Il'Luminaries
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Clive Davis - Legendary music executive who signed Keys to Arista and J Records, guiding her early career and album releases. (Songs in A Minor, The Diary of Alicia Keys) [1998–present]
- Jeff Robinson - Manager who introduced Keys to the music industry, provided guidance, and encouraged her solo career. (Early career management) [1994–2010]
- Classical piano teachers - Provided foundational training in classical music, shaping her technical skill and musical approach. (Early compositions, classical repertoire) [1988–1999]
Key Collaborators
- Kerry Brothers Jr. (Krucial) - Long-term collaborator, co-writer, and producer; also her former boyfriend. (Songs in A Minor, The Diary of Alicia Keys) [1997–2010]
- Swizz Beatz - Producer, songwriter, and her husband; collaborated on multiple tracks. (The Element of Freedom, Girl on Fire) [2008–present]
- Usher - Duet partner on the hit single "My Boo." (My Boo (single)) [2004]
Artists Influenced
- H.E.R. - Cites Keys as a major influence on her songwriting and piano-driven R&B style. (H.E.R. (album), various interviews) [2016–present]
- John Legend - Inspired by Keys' blend of classical piano and soul in his own approach to songwriting and performance. (Get Lifted, interviews) [2004–present]
- Egypt Daoud Dean - Keys' son, recognized as a musical prodigy and credited as a co-producer for Kendrick Lamar at age five. (Kendrick Lamar's Untitled Unmastered ('Untitled 07')) [2016]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| The Diary Of Alicia Keys | 2003-12-02 | Album |
| Songs In A Minor | 2001-06-05 | Album |
| Grateful | 2017-06-22 | Album |
| No One (Remixes) | 2007-10-09 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Empire State Of Mind (The Blueprint 3)
- If I Ain't Got You (The Diary Of Alicia Keys)
- My Boo (Confessions (Expanded Edition))
- Fallin' (Songs In A Minor)
- No One (No One (Remixes))
- Girl on Fire
- Finally
- Un-thinkable (I'm Ready) (feat. Drake) - Remix
- No One (As I Am (Expanded Edition))
- Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down
External Links
Tags: #contemporary-r&b, #jazz, #jazz-pop
References
Heard on WWOZ
Alicia Keys has been played 3 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 9, 2025 | 00:16 | Teenage Love Affairfrom As I Am | Adjacentw/ Benny Poppins | |
| Dec 1, 2025 | 22:49 | Another Way to Die | Kitchen Sinkw/ Derrick Freeman | |
| Nov 13, 2025 | 22:08 | Holy War | Kitchen Sinkw/ Jennifer Brady |