She’s had her first three albums sell over a million copies each, scored a Number One single on the pop charts, been name-checked by Dylan, and starred alongside Ben Affleck and Jeremy Piven on the big screen. Not bad for a 26-year-old former resident of Hell’s Kitchen whose first big break was a bit part on “The Cosby Show,” eh?
Alicia Keys is in roughly the same age demographic as such bouncy pop tarts as Britney Spears and Jessica Simpson, but she took both a longer route to success (including failed deals at two labels) and a different musical approach: Rather than concerning herself with a heavily stylized image or self-consciously modern production, Keys has relied strongly on her forebears in classic soul and R&B, a decision that’s paid off handsomely, both critically and commercially.
Her jump to the big screen in 2007’s “Smokin’ Aces” was just the beginning of her acting career’s second chapter; she also landed a role in the Scarlett Johansson comedy “The Nanny Diaries.”
But don’t think she’s forgotten about music — 2007 will also bring Keys’ third studio release, set to include guest appearances from John Mayer, John Legend, and Timbaland, among others. When asked about why he referenced Keys in his song “Thunder on the Mountain,” Dylan said, “There’s nothing I don’t like about this girl.” Couldn’t have said it better ourselves, Bob.
Alicia Keys on the Web
Official Site
The official Alicia Keys website.
Alicia Says
On her favorite room of the house:
“If I want to be alone, some place I can write, I can read, I can pray, I can cry, I can do whatever I want – I go to the bathroom.”
On physical contact:
“I really like when I tackle someone. When I tackle someone I feel good about it.”