Alicia Keys, born Alicia Augello Cook on January 25, 1981, in New York City, U.S., is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, pianist, actress, author, and activist. She first gained recognition with her debut album, Songs in A Minor (2001), which sold over 12 million copies worldwide and won five Grammy Awards.
Over the years, Keys has become one of the best-selling artists of all time, with more than 90 million records sold globally. She is known for her soulful voice, classical piano skills, and empowering lyrics, making her a defining figure in contemporary R&B and soul music.
Beyond music, Keys has also made significant contributions to philanthropy, activism, and film. She co-founded the Keep a Child Alive organization, which provides healthcare and support for families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India. Additionally, she has been a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the music industry.
In this article, we will explore Alicia Keys’ biography, age, height, career, net worth, early life, family, relationships, physical appearance, and lesser-known facts.
Alicia Keys Short Details
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Alicia Augello Cook |
Stage Name | Alicia Keys |
Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Pianist, Author, Actress |
Hometown | New York City, U.S. |
Nationality | American |
Date of Birth | January 25, 1981 |
Age (as of 2025) | 44 years old |
Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
Weight | Approx. 57 kg (125 lbs) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
Spouse | Swizz Beatz (m. 2010) |
Children | 2 |
Genres | R&B, Soul, Pop, Hip Hop |
Years Active | 1996–present |
Website | aliciakeys.com |
Early Life and Education
Alicia Keys was born and raised in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, a neighborhood known for its mix of cultures and vibrant energy. She was the only child of Teresa Augello, a paralegal and part-time actress, and Craig Cook, a flight attendant. Her father was African American, while her mother had Italian, Irish, and Scottish roots. Keys’ father left when she was two years old, leaving her mother to raise her alone in a one-bedroom apartment.
Growing up in New York City, Keys was exposed to both the challenges and inspirations of urban life. She saw street violence, drug abuse, and crime, but also the resilience and creativity of people around her. These experiences shaped her outlook on life and her music. She often spoke about how her mother’s strength influenced her own journey, teaching her independence and perseverance.
Keys showed an early passion for music and performance. At just six years old, she started playing the piano, focusing on classical composers like Beethoven, Mozart, and Chopin. By seven, she was already composing her own pieces. She attended the Professional Performing Arts School, where she majored in choir and honed her skills in singing, piano, and composition.
At the age of 15, Keys graduated valedictorian from high school and was accepted into Columbia University. However, she dropped out after just a month to pursue music full-time.
Career Breakthrough and Musical Success
Early Career and Breakthrough (1996-2001)
Keys signed her first deal with Columbia Records at 15 but faced creative struggles with the label. She eventually left and was discovered by Clive Davis, who signed her to J Records in 1998. Under Davis’ mentorship, she was given full creative control, allowing her to craft her debut album.
In 2001, Keys released Songs in A Minor, a mix of R&B, soul, jazz, and classical influences. The album was an instant hit, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, selling over 6 million copies in the U.S., and earning five Grammy Awards. The lead single, “Fallin’,” became a Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit and remains one of her signature songs.
Continued Success and Acting Career (2003-2010)
Her second album, The Diary of Alicia Keys (2003), solidified her status as a global superstar, selling 8 million copies worldwide and spawning hits like “If I Ain’t Got You” and “You Don’t Know My Name”. In 2004, she collaborated with Usher on “My Boo”, which became another No. 1 hit.
Her third album, As I Am (2007), included the chart-topping single “No One”, which won two Grammy Awards. Around this time, she also ventured into acting, making her debut in Smokin’ Aces (2007) and later appearing in The Secret Life of Bees (2008).
Later Albums and Activism (2012-Present)
Keys released several successful albums, including Girl on Fire (2012), which featured the title track that became an empowering anthem for women. She continued experimenting with different sounds in Here (2016), Alicia (2020), and Keys (2021).
In 2023, she co-produced her first Broadway musical, Hell’s Kitchen, inspired by her own life. She also released her first independent Christmas album, Santa Baby (2022).
Family and Relationships
Alicia Keys has been married to Swizz Beatz (real name: Kasseem Dean) since 2010. Together, they have two sons, Egypt Daoud Dean (born 2010) and Genesis Ali Dean (born 2014).
Physical Appearance
Alicia Keys is known for her natural beauty and signature style, often opting for a makeup-free look to promote self-love and confidence.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
Weight | Approx. 57 kg (125 lbs) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Tattoos | No |
Piercings | Ears |
Alicia Keys Net Worth & Income Sources (2025 Updated)
As one of the best-selling artists of her generation, Alicia Keys has built an estimated net worth of $150 million.
Her income sources include:
- Music Sales & Streaming: With over 90 million records sold, her albums continue generating revenue.
- Tours & Live Performances: Keys has headlined multiple world tours, earning millions.
- Acting & Broadway: She has starred in films and co-produced Hell’s Kitchen.
- Brand Endorsements: She has partnered with brands like Reebok, Givenchy, and BlackBerry.
- Business Ventures: She owns AKW Records and launched Keys Soulcare, a lifestyle brand.
Lesser-Known Facts About Alicia Keys
- She turned down a $26,000 record deal at age 15.
- Her stage name “Keys” was inspired by the piano.
- She was the first female artist to have an MTV Unplugged album debut at No. 1.
- She wrote her first song at 12.
- She is a certified yoga instructor.
FAQs About Alicia Keys
- Q: What is Alicia Keys’ biggest hit?
A: “Fallin’” and “Empire State of Mind”. - Q: How many Grammys does Alicia Keys have?
A: 17 Grammy Awards. - Q: What is Alicia Keys’ net worth?
A: Estimated $150 million.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is for informational purposes only.