Alicia Keys was born Alicia Augello Cook on January 25, 1981, in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City, and began playing the piano at the age of 7.
She graduated as valedictorian from the Professional Performing Arts School in Manhattan at the age of 16.
Alicia’s debut album, 'Songs in A Minor,' released in 2001, sold over 12 million copies worldwide and won her five Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist.
Her hit single 'Fallin'' from the same album became one of the defining songs of the early 2000s, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for six consecutive weeks.
Alicia Keys is a classically trained pianist, and her music often incorporates elements of classical, jazz, and R&B genres.
In 2005, she made her acting debut in the television series 'The Backyardigans' and later appeared in films such as 'Smokin' Aces' and 'The Nanny Diaries.'
Alicia is a co-founder of Keep a Child Alive, a non-profit organization that provides medicine, support, and care to families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India.
She is also known for her activism and advocacy, particularly for issues related to education, poverty, and women’s rights.
In 2016, Alicia Keys made headlines by appearing makeup-free at public events and on the red carpet, promoting self-acceptance and challenging beauty standards.
Alicia Keys has hosted the Grammy Awards twice, in 2019 and 2020, earning praise for her performances and charisma as a host.
She has won 15 Grammy Awards throughout her career, making her one of the most awarded female artists in Grammy history.
Alicia is married to producer Swizz Beatz, and the couple has two sons together, Egypt and Genesis.
In addition to her music career, Alicia is a bestselling author, with her memoir 'More Myself: A Journey' released in 2020.
Her song 'Empire State of Mind,' a collaboration with Jay-Z, became an anthem for New York City and topped charts worldwide.
With over 65 million records sold worldwide, Alicia Keys is recognized as one of the best-selling music artists of all time and continues to influence music and culture.