Date of Birth: January 25, 1981

Location of Birth: New York, New York

Interesting Facts:Born Alicia Augello Cook (nicknamed “Keys” because of her expertise on the piano). Graduated from high school at age 16. Was named one of the 50 Most Beautiful People by People Magazine in 2002.

Albums released:
Songs In A Minor (2001)
The Diary Of Alicia Keys (2003)

Notable singles:
Fallin’
A Woman’s Worth
Troubles
Diary

Alicia Keys began singing at the age of five and started lessons on the piano by the age of seven. By the time she was 14, she was writing her own music, much of which would end up propelling her to stardom. Keys began studying classical music and older jazz while still using bits of pieces of today’s R&B and hip hop to create a sound all her own. Keys was enrolled in Manhattan's Professional Performance Arts School and briefly attended Columbia University before devoting all her time to her music. Keys has made numerous appearances on MTV and BET while spending a lot of time in the spotlight. Her debut album in 2001 sent her to a level of stardom and at the 2004 Billboard Music Awards, she walked away with seven awards including Female Artist of the Year. She has also won American Music Awards and has done work for movie soundtracks including “Men In Black” and “Shaft.”