Alicia Keys, a legendary figure in the music industry, has crafted a diverse and captivating body of work that spans genres and eras. Her 20 best songs, as ranked, showcase her artistic evolution and unique style. From the soulful and emotional to the pop-infused and experimental, Keys' music is a testament to her versatility and talent. This article delves into the stories behind these songs, exploring their impact and the personal commentary that makes them stand out.
1. If I Ain't Got You (2003)
This song, a timeless classic soul number, is a powerful introduction to Keys' ability to create modern, timeless music. It's a love song inspired by the death of Aaliyah and the 9/11 attacks, a poignant and emotional tribute. What's fascinating is how it transcends its original context, becoming a universal anthem. The fact that she almost gave it to Christina Aguilera, believing she could write a hundred more like it, showcases her generosity and the industry's competitive nature. This song's enduring popularity, with over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify, is a testament to its timeless appeal and Keys' artistic vision.
2. Fallin' (2001)
Fallin' was Keys' breakthrough, a powerful introduction to her work. It's a song of forcefulness and emotion, suggesting a sense of urgency and a last chance at something. The 90s major-label deal that went nowhere adds a layer of intrigue, making it a compelling narrative of perseverance. This song's impact is evident in its ability to resonate with listeners, marking the beginning of a successful career.
3. You Don't Know My Name (2003)
A 21st-century reboot of 70s soft soul, this song is a lush and heady masterpiece. The sample from The Main Ingredient's 'Let Me Prove My Love to You' adds a layer of nostalgia and sophistication. What makes it fascinating is how it captures the essence of unrequited love, creating a dizzying and captivating atmosphere. This song's production and arrangement showcase Keys' ability to blend classic and contemporary sounds seamlessly.
4. Un-thinkable (I'm Ready) (Remix ft Drake) (2010)
The Drake remix of this song is a dreamier and more overcast interpretation, perfect for the subject matter of romantic commitment in one's late 20s. Drake's contribution adds a layer of depth and emotion, making it a standout track. The original song's strength lies in its ability to capture a specific moment in a relationship, and the remix enhances this with its atmospheric and introspective nature.
5. No One (2007)
No One is a standout track from Keys' third album, showcasing her vocal prowess. The song's emotional depth and raw emotion are unparalleled, with no fireworks needed. The chorus is a masterpiece, a testament to her songwriting skills. This song's impact is felt in its ability to resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level, making it a fan favorite.
6. Underdog (2020)
Co-written by Ed Sheeran and Amy Wadge, Underdog gained new life during the Covid pandemic. Its never-give-up mood and infectiously breezy sound provided hope and resilience. The song's message is timeless, and its release timing adds an interesting layer to its impact. This track's ability to uplift and inspire is a testament to Keys' ability to create music that resonates across different eras.
7. Karma (2003)
With a background in classical piano, Keys' Karma showcases her training and influences. The song splits the difference between 00s hip-hop and a complex, rococo arrangement, blending high-drama strings with a sophisticated sound. This unique blend of genres and her classical training make it a standout track, showcasing her versatility and artistic exploration.
8. Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart (2009)
A leading example of Keys' musical shift towards 80s pop, this song is a thunderous old-skool hip-hop beat with immense synths. The core of the song is a superb pop track, showcasing her ability to create catchy and memorable melodies. This evolution in her sound demonstrates her willingness to experiment and adapt, making her music fresh and exciting.
9. Like You'll Never See Me Again (2007)
A beautiful, falsetto-heavy ballad, this song pays homage to Prince's influence. The fact that it sounds like Prince and could have been sung by him is a high compliment. This cover showcases Keys' respect for musical icons and her ability to pay homage while adding her unique touch.
10. Empire State of Mind Part II (Broken Down) (2009)
Keys' solo piano interpretation of a modern New York anthem is a romantic and glossy show tune. The song's chorus is a monster, and its romantic and glossy nature adds a layer of sophistication. This track's ability to capture the essence of New York while maintaining a romantic flair is a testament to Keys' artistic vision and her ability to create memorable and iconic songs.
11. Diary (ft Tony! Toni! Toné! and Jermaine Paul) (2003)
Diary is a slow-burning track with a gradual shift from intimacy to intensity. The lyrics and the song's progression create a sense of secrecy and tension, building up to a climax. The appearance of Tony! Toni! Toné! adds a layer of surprise and excitement, making it a memorable and captivating song.
12. Doesn't Mean Anything (2009)
The first single from The Element of Freedom, this song was initially criticized for its unadventurous nature. However, it distilled the essence of Keys' style, with an unflashy yet superbly written piano-driven mid-tempo track. The song's simplicity and its ability to convey a powerful message make it a standout, showcasing her skill in crafting memorable and meaningful music.
13. A Woman's Worth (2005)
A string-laden ballad from her debut, A Woman's Worth shines on the live Unplugged album. The stripped-back arrangement, with drums, bass, piano, and guitar, adds urgency and emotion. The audience's rapturous response throughout the song showcases its impact and the power of live performances.
14. Fire We Make (ft Maxwell) (2012)
Fire We Make is a straightforward, old-fashioned slow jam with a beautiful, understated quality. The song's simplicity, decorated with horns and a dextrous guitar solo, is a testament to its strength. Maxwell's falsetto lover-man mode adds a layer of sophistication, making it a timeless and captivating track.
15. Dragon Days (2003)
Dragon Days, a track from The Diary of Alicia Keys, captures a moment of romantic ups and downs. The song's tough funk and breathy growl showcase her vocal range and musical versatility. This track's ability to convey a story and evoke emotion is a testament to her storytelling skills.
16. Blended Family (What You Do for Love) (ft A$AP Rocky) (2016)
A charming and sweetly affecting pop song, Blended Family celebrates the pleasures of being a stepmother. The lyrics are plain-spoken and relatable, with a great sample from Edie Brickell's 'What I Am' and A$AP Rocky's guest verse. This song's ability to address a unique and relatable topic is a testament to Keys' creativity and her ability to connect with her audience.
17. Love Looks Better (2020)
Co-written by Ryan Tedder, Love Looks Better is a bright-hued pop song with a distinct hint of EDM. The song's production and Keys' voice bring a sense of soul and emotion, making it a churlish character's favorite. This track's ability to blend pop and soul is a testament to her artistic evolution and her skill in creating catchy and memorable music.
18. Wait Til You See My Smile (2009)
A no-holds-barred 80s bombast meets infectious emotional uplift in this song. The combination of Billy Joel piano, booming drums, and epic stadium rock synths creates a unique and captivating atmosphere. The song's emotional intensity and Keys' vocal range make it a standout, showcasing her ability to create powerful and memorable music.
19. Jane Doe (2001)
A collaboration with Kandi Burruss, Jane Doe is a sassy slice of early 00s R&B. The song's mood and sound are reminiscent of Burruss' work with TLC and Destiny's Child. This collaboration showcases Keys' ability to work with other artists and create a cohesive and memorable track.
20. Skydive (Unlocked) (2021)
An experiment that didn't quite work, Skydive showcases two different takes on the same album. The song's co-writing with Raphael Saadiq and the different versions demonstrate Keys' willingness to explore and experiment. While the experiment may not have been a success, Skydive remains a fine song, with both versions offering unique perspectives.
