Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys is a globally renowned American singer, songwriter, pianist, record producer, actress, and philanthropist, celebrated for her soulful voice, classical piano skills, and empowering R&B anthems.
Born and raised in Manhattan, New York City, Keys displayed prodigious musical talent from a young age, training classically in piano. She signed with Columbia Records at 15 but left due to creative differences. Her breakthrough came with her debut album 'Songs in A Minor' (2001) on Arista Records, which sold over 12 million copies worldwide and won five Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year for 'Fallin''. Keys has since released multiple critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including 'The Diary of Alicia Keys' (2003), 'As I Am' (2007), and 'Girl on Fire' (2012). Beyond music, she is a co-founder of Keep a Child Alive, an activist for social justice, an author, and an actress.
- Keys famously turned down acceptance offers from both Columbia University and Stanford University to pursue her music career.
- She wrote and recorded her multi-platinum debut album 'Songs in A Minor' while still a teenager, showcasing remarkable maturity and talent.
- Keys married record producer and rapper Swizz Beatz (Kasseem Dean) in 2010; they have two sons together. She is also stepmother to Swizz Beatz's children from previous relationships.
- She is known for her distinctive look, often performing without makeup and embracing a natural aesthetic, which she advocates for through her movement #nomakeup.
- Keys co-founded the nonprofit organization Keep a Child Alive in 2003 with Leigh Blake, dedicated to providing treatment, care, and support to families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India.