Alicia Keys

Alicia Augello Cook, known to the world as Alicia Keys, was born on January 25, 1981. An American singer-songwriter and pianist, she began her musical journey at a young age, composing her first songs by the age of twelve. By fifteen, she had signed with Columbia Records, but after some disagreements, she transitioned to J Records, where she released her groundbreaking debut album, Songs in A Minor, in 2001. This album not only achieved critical acclaim but also commercial success, selling over twelve million copies globally and earning five Grammy Awards, including the hit single 'Fallin.'

Her follow-up album, The Diary of Alicia Keys, released in 2003, continued her streak of success, selling eight million copies and featuring popular singles like 'You Don't Know My Name' and 'If I Ain't Got You.' This album garnered her an additional four Grammy Awards. In 2004, her duet with Usher, 'My Boo,' marked her second number-one single in the United States, further solidifying her status in the music industry.

Keys's first live album, Unplugged, released in 2005, made history as the first MTV Unplugged project by a female artist to debut at the top of the Billboard 200. Her third studio album, As I Am, released in 2007, sold seven million copies and produced her third number-one single, 'No One.' In addition to her music career, she made her film debut in the action-thriller Smokin' Aces and performed the theme song for the James Bond film Quantum of Solace.

Throughout her career, Keys has released several successful albums, including The Element of Freedom, Girl on Fire, and her more recent works, Alicia and Keys. She has sold over ninety million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Her accolades include seventeen Grammy Awards and numerous honors for her contributions to music and humanitarian efforts, including co-founding the nonprofit organization Keep a Child Alive.