Alicia Keys: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

This performance was recorded on Feb. 12, 2020. We will continue releasing Tiny Desk videos of shows that had already been taped. In light of current events, NPR is postponing new live tapings of Tiny Desk Concerts. In the meantime, check out Tiny Desk (home) concerts! They’re recorded by the artists in their home. It’s the same spirit - stripped-down sets, an intimate setting - just a different space.
June 17, 2020 | Abby O'Neill -- On a brisk February morning, Alicia Keys, full of effervescence, entered NPR through the loading dock wearing a canary yellow faux fur coat. During our ride to the fourth floor, she joked about how she hadn't been invited to play at the Tiny Desk. That, of course, wasn't exactly true. We worked on and off for years to make this moment happen, and I can say wholeheartedly that it was worth the wait.
Alicia Keys has an aura that you can sense the second she enters a room, or in my case, an elevator. She radiates compassion and kindness. This spirit is the key to Keys's songwriting, which is rooted in introspection and mindfulness.
As she approached her piano, a bit surprised at the amount of people in the room, she smiled and remarked over her shoulder, "Gee, the Tiny Desk is tiny!" She kicked off the set with an uncanny ode to combat the darkness of this moment in American history: "Show Me Love," a single she released in 2019. No one could have predicted then how much her lyrics and musical healing would be crucial during this emotionally fraught time of unprecedented political and racial unrest, heightened by three months of quarantine due to a global pandemic.
The stand-out moment during her Tiny Desk was the premiere of "Gramercy Park", a song from her upcoming self-titled album, ALICIA, which is set to be released this fall. It's one of those timeless songs that will transcend radio formats and genres, with lyrics that address how utter selflessness and worrying about making everyone happy but yourself can throw your own center askew. The song's spiritual refrain is sure to be a sing-along moment for the rest of Keys's career.
She told the crowd after "Gramercy Park" that she's struggled with appeasing people her whole life, but she's trying harder now to set boundaries. Luckily for the Tiny Desk audience, that resolution didn't pertain to this concert. After wrapping up what was to be a three-song set with her latest single "Underdog," which you may have seen her perform at this year's Grammys, the crowd begged for an encore. After crowdsourcing suggestions, she and her band delivered a riveting rendition of Keys's breakout 2001 single, "Fallin'."
The world, now more than ever, needs more love, reflection and accountability - a mantra that's woven into every fiber of Alicia Keys's being and every lyric of her songs.
SET LIST
"Show Me Love"
"Gramercy Park"
"Underdog"
"Fallin'"
MUSICIANS
Alicia Keys: vocals, piano; RAII & Whitney: vocals; Ant Parrish: bass; Curt Chambers: guitar; Mike Reid: drums; Omar Edwards: keys.
CREDITS
Producers: Abby O'Neill, Morgan Noelle Smith, Kara Frame; Creative director: Bob Boilen; Audio engineers: Josh Rogosin, Natasha Branch; Videographers: Kara Frame, Maia Stern, Melany Rochester, Shanti Hands; Editor: Maia Stern; Associate Producer: Bobby Carter; Executive producer: Lauren Onkey; VP, programming: Anya Grundmann; Photo: Kisha Ravi/NPR

[@nprmusic]

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[@FranciscoSanchez-kn7tk]

Check out my songs.

[@zayg6626]

Alicia is one of the most swaggy women in existence. Everything about her is a vibe.

[@mikayocc]

Truly! This fed my soul. Thank you NPR, Alicia, background vocalists, + musicians!

[@julioivanreyeschong5242]

Word 👌🏼

[@ruebenmalone3362]

I was thinking the same thing! The epitome of swagger and class.

[@thatblackkkid8471]

No doubt

[@hopetrnr0]

Yup! And J Lo

[@barbara-holley]

The control in her voice, the piano playing, her backup vocalist selection....ART

[@inkasaraswati7625]

Agreed, Alicia's voice is as angelic as ever but I can't describe how warming the backing vocals feel. Together they're magical.

[@wildebt]

Weird to think that Britney, Beyonce, and other sell-out wannabes, were in the same musical cohort at one point. I agree, there is some legit artistry here. I always thought Alicia Keys' songs had staying power..

[@tshegofatsomakwena1714]

Art indeed

[@seanmarron5021]

that acoustic guitar POPS off, props to him as well

[@ThePhenakistoscope]

bv's on point

[@LesleyBrockman]

you cant fake this level of authenticity of humbleness

[@itskelvinn]

Yes I can

[@ZipZigZag]

XD@@itskelvinn

[@vau_st]

@@itskelvinn Yeah, I'm the best at being humble and authentic

[@L0VEisAmixtape]

Yes you can. She stole someone's man... she was so humble about it, though 😂

[@larryapeagyei2991]

​@@L0VEisAmixtapewe still love her even more

[@wiu.a]

the background singers, as a couple, looking at each other while singin "loving you" at 24:54 is PRINCELESSS

[@enchanted_apeling]

omg stop that is so wonderful 💌

[@Uzbechkacannn888]

Обалденные бэк-вокалисты❤

[@Daisy-di9mn]

They are actually a married couple so their connection while singing makes sense! This tiny desk was awesome 😊

[@squirrelbutler2119]

We all felt that, I think, that this was Princeless, as Prince had died a few years before. It was, indeed, Princeless

[@timcolorplay2543]

Lets not forget the sound tech who mixed this.. thats world class audio here.

[@privateristo4051]

True that. And it's sad that most people didn't noticed it and appreciate them.

[@5kymf]

Strikes me every time I tune into NPR Music. Kudos!

[@RiverRoots]

poor guy needs one more xlr cable/extra channel tho.... why she having to change cables?

[@davidmudra4492]

yeah mate! my b&w speakers like it too :) crystal sound!

[@hungryheart69]

outstanding audio setup !!!!

[@JStack]

She's like the next micro step in human evolution. Brains, beauty, longevity, savvy, creativity, compassion, and just an immaculate vibe.

[@nannimwuyep]

You're on point!

[@bambanx]

awesome your comment !!!

[@EagerForestTrees-ib7fm]

20$ on words people never say anymore regis!

[@imtrulyholy5641]

The meat riding is crazy

[@S___________D]

@@imtrulyholy5641Everything OP wrote is true. Where' the riding? Appreciate what's to appreciate, man, they are rare these days.

[@user-lk3gn4dn9o]

This woman is a conductor. She holds so much control over her set and her audience, it's really quite impressive. She does it in such a soft but professional way that you can't but help fall in love with this performance.

[@Uzbechkacannn888]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@ichbindoofhihi1]

1:45 Show me love 8:52 Gramercy Park 14:18 Underdog 20:40 Fallin If you want to thank me, just tell your parents you love them. You never know when its too late.

[@samvosman8079]

Amen

[@zakesmsimang3767]

God bless you 🥺

[@GiGaby10]

siempre hay un copado que se toma la molestia de contribuir con la ansiedad de todos aquellos que necesitamos saber el momento exacto en que comienza cada puta canción. gracias por tanto.

[@wakeupitskelsey]

🥺

[@sayurialmeida4992]

You’re amazing!

[@tikob9045]

Backing couple totally stole my heart. Especially when they sang Fallin'

[@chetan19891]

indeed.. super backing vocals!!

[@JaydenLamparero]

True!

[@tomread5164]

Great set overall one of my favourites top 5

[@treasured530]

Love them

[@nprmusic]

That's RAII and Whitney -- check them out on socials. They're great!

[@alir8912]

Not only her voice and songwriting is something else, but her piano playing is amazing as well.

[@heavenlygardens]

This video was posted 3 years ago yet here watching. Everything she says still applies today. LOVE THIS. ❤

[@charliedillon1400]

Honestly, shout out to the audience for harmonizing so well!

[@olivercoulter260]

Was thinking the same thing! Never sounds like that with audience participation haha

[@vinayuckk]

Alicia is such a cool woman. It makes me so calm just watching her

[@raszottel7740]

She should be president!

[@carkod]

One of the few artists who can play while talking

[@cierradavis4534]

She got that good energy

[@user-sj2vn1jq4c]

She does a lot of kundalini 🔥🔥🔥

[@erickramer6108]

@Mr Haney what end is the harmonica attached to? i asked but i think i already knew. i think we all already knew. i'm going to stare into the middle distance and shudder for 50 minutes now.

[@sippinonjinandnamjoos4859]

Alicia is such a smooth talker. She could be reading a grocery list and I'll still be moved to tears.

[@thammy_ndlovu]

Sippin on Jin and Namjoos on god 😩

[@sbhatti534]

I've listened to her songs before but I don't think I've heard her talk like this. That's one of the nice things about these Tiny Desk concerts, you get to hear the musicians chat about stuff. She has a sweet voice and I love her New York accent. :)

[@graciatakashita6133]

@@sbhatti534 its actually she has one session in Paris where shes vibin like this too

[@olivierbolton8683]

hahahahaha!

[@PauloCorreiaKidjy]

that made me laugh so hard! but I can relate xD

[@JH-no6eu]

Watching this reminds me of how I'm just not treating people right. The smiles on this woman's band just show me I have a lot to learn. What a queen.

[@jacobjones966]

Reading this shows me you are a good person and think about your actions that’s good

[@Nicol.G.]

You are blessed I think that you have already done the most important part of the job ❤

[@megwagodson7073]

Being able to acknowledge your wrong doing is a virtue, you're a good soul. I love your swag, kudos to you

[@yacobz]

It's all good queen I want to did

[@henry_b1230]

I love this comment. Measuring your own success by the happiness of people around you.

[@andreagv3]

I mean, the incredible charisma this woman has... Other artists just come and sing. She managed to get every person involved from the first to the last second, getting them to sing along, voting for songs, conversations... Amazing ability to make people feel comfortable and positive around her... projecting love, humour, positivity, friendship. But she's also badass and has got the "street vibe" Of course, her incredible voice and musicianship. But that kind of goes without saying...

[@brainwhatwasher]

those backing vocals are having the time of their lives, the pure joy on their faces..

[@lucasd3645]

When they look ay each other while singing Fallin' , It sooooo beautiful

[@DiegoChang]

Any musician being around Alicia would have pure joy in their face and heart, this woman is a genius.

[@ryepascual6054]

That kushikushi

[@RAIIandWhitney]

We definitely had fun!

[@pchiare]

​@@RAIIandWhitney Thank you so much!

[@smokeytaboo1756]

She seemed so present, like there was absolutely nowhere she'd rather be, enjoying every single moment with the people there. She has such a beautiful gracious energy

[@TammyGsings]

She’s always so present. That’s why she’s so special

[@soniadownie8749]

A gracious, humble performer who not only in touch with her audience but also herself. If she's off screen as wonderful as she is performing then she's an angel xx

[@smokeytaboo1756]

@@soniadownie8749 Well said! I started following her on Instagram and every time I see a post by her I find myself saying out loud "She's such an angel"

[@XXClodaghBXX]

♥️♥️♥️

[@SerenityDreaming]

Man, I hope somebody says this about me someday.

[@mattclayton2889]

Fallin might be the single most electric live performance I’ve ever heard MY GOD

[@nickhexum01]

It's awesome to see her in such a small setting. When a musical artist is so huge they can sell out an arena whenever they want, they often don't get the chance to show how amazing they can be in a smaller setting.

[@amethystwolf24572]

All I can think about is how happy her band and singers look.

[@Garcelle1987]

Lady Beldaran I think they have been singing with her for a decade plus. That’s probably her homies

[@ServerAdd]

Its beautiful to see that.

[@kirkeedel]

So so true, this set warmed my heart, so beautiful, especially that smile of the male background singer :))

[@RAIIandWhitney]

We really had a great time performing for the session!

[@ryanspeed4671]

I'm sure treats them well 😊..

[@l.d.t.6327]

Love the background singers. The chemistry. The joy.

[@mrpink3998]

The man and the woman are husband and wife! Go figure!

[@user-kt9nc1hz7r]

@@mrpink3998 Oh gosh!!So cute

[@Hi98765]

@@mrpink3998 aw! the way they look at eachother this makes so much sense! they're so psyched to be there you can just tell how much they love the music and each other and Alecia!

[@deanajeff63]

Yes they killing it!

[@pierou05]

same here want some friends with this smile ;)

[@ixfive_]

2024 and i still am obsessed with this video

[@luanevitoria5509]

Me too

[@fedosea]

This is phenomenal. OMG, how Alicia and her crew work together and how much they ENJOY the music is so inspiring and moving. WOW. Brilliant!

[@DJSnorlax64]

Her background singers ATE those vocals, runs, and riffs. 😳😳😳

[@RAIIandWhitney]

Thank you so much!

[@martythenoob2117]

@@RAIIandWhitney you’re both incredible

[@RAIIandWhitney]

@@martythenoob2117 thank you!!

[@coko420]

Alicia keys is everything…but really, can we just take a second to appreciate the sound engineers for tiny desk. Every session, with every artist, the sound is always on point.

[@katherineogorman2019]

YESSSSS

[@compucat]

Tiny Desk's sound is iconic. It's a combination of good engineering, unique techniques that straddle the line between live sound and film/location sound, and performances inspired by the environment. It really has carved out its own lovely niche.

[@troymosher4877]

Agreed. I was just thinking how good it sounded. No foggy, no shrill. Great sound.

[@gregorylamb9651]

It really is an unmatched sound. Magical.

[@laurendonahue3817]

I've been watching tiny desk for years and I'm always impressed the way it's presented

[@OrganicAlumination]

The backup singer with the blonde hair is such a great singer. I love that. She's great. And I appreciate that Alicia had the audience sing first they did a great job. They harmonization is great like wow.

[@romasara676]

Alicia is one of the most swaggy women in existence. Everything about her is a vibe. Alicia Keys is so dope. I can't stop watching this track again and again. I am sure she will be #1 soon due to 💖a u t h e n t I c v i e w s 💖

[@LivingforaLiving]

Yo at 24:54 when the backup singers look at each other while singing "I"ve never loved someone the way that I love you" is unbeatable

[@jonathandudley6250]

Imagine being in an experience with LITERALLY one other person and you both recognize it at the same time and are able to share the moment. Knowing that this is one of the best days of both there lives and living it. No video, no background. Just them and the moment. Special to catch on video

[@dontcallmebaby]

Literally was just gonna say that! Beautiful beautiful beautiful

[@Elaram.]

The bright their eyes are when they look at eachother! Moments like those make me so happy!

[@ganjarulez009]

Exactly my thoughts. Those are the moments we live for

[@isabellefranca8591]

Yes. I'm crying a river 'cause of this glance.

[@zeek8623]

Alicia Keys is literally holding the torch. She radiates positivity, humility and kindness. She is more than just an artist. This tiny desk concert is top tier.

[@SallylyllaS]

Top! Tier!

[@staygold902]

Definitely top tier musician right there!

[@analiseferguson3191]

yes! perfectly said.

[@justaname2422]

She's a treasure to humanity.

[@jefflangenberg2411]

@@SallylyllaS TOP👏TIER👏

[@zerozucker]

I just stumbled across this by accident because I was searching for something to listening to while having breakfast. This whole concert is such a vibe, I cannot believe how beautiful that was

[@Lorenzo_Limon]

It's crazy how in tune the audience is

[@benilsonrui5950]

Yhea. I got impressed too

[@marcelodasilva]

@@benilsonrui5950 me too.

[@marcustongue123]

Yeah, I’m sure there’s a choir on the other side 😂

[@loicmaria1958]

Audience always sounds right its mathematics more is people more it sounds harmonic. I think this is happening because the worst singers tune their voices on to the best singers around them the effect travel in the crowd exponentially. Double check but I think it is why

[@Zaandick]

loic maria Don’t care if that’s not true, I’m going to be repeating it from now on.🙂

[@angelopejoto5088]

i like how she delivers a ted talk every after song

[@danielataveras5871]

😂

[@oficinademusica6642]

1:40 Show me Love 8:52 Not Even Me 14:18 One Conversation 20:38 Falling

[@gunzo24]

Forgot Gramercy park

[@katevanhoutte7837]

@@gunzo24 and the song is named Underdog instead of One Conversation

[@myssscarlet539]

Thanks

[@deed8915]

Hey, thanks!

[@annamurski4969]

The vocals have such a elevating sound when people are vibing and smiling together. Love how Alicia included everyone in the room. Queen!

[@mickeydemas]

the joy in that couples face as they sing backup beautifully. man. they're at peace.

[@MbuleloMacLoudKatise]

Mickey Demas their energy is beautiful and so are their voices

[@nasyanaulicesarea4231]

Yes you should watch thei videoss check their channel raii & whitney they’re amazing

[@krown1188]

@@nasyanaulicesarea4231 what is their channel name? I've been looking through the comments to see if anyone knows lol

[@jamaelmedlock4340]

The way the background singer couple looks and sings to each other at 24:54 like they forgot they were at a performance is EVERYTHING!!

[@muditafeeler8271]

+

[@Jadamay27]

💕💕💕

[@anitastewart8751]

This is my go to after all these years. Always gonna come back to this tiny desk!

[@crookofmyarm6838]

Not sure if 2020 qualifies for "all these years ago" but I like your sentiment.

[@efrainhernandez645]

Everytime i hear "falling" it puts me in such a good place ESP. when it comes to that awesome voice if hers & those spectacular lyrics!!😊👍

[@southside6093]

This is about to be the most viewed Tiny Desk to date.

[@southside6093]

Sandile Mnguni Anderson .Paak has the best Tiny Desk performance to date but Alicia’s fanbase is enormous. That’s why I said that.

[@roltthehunter]

@@southside6093 Mac Miller had the best tiny desk buuuut I mean it's subjective, I think Mac Millers is the best recording of his music that you can find, I was never a fan of his music, his tiny desk was incredible though it really made me respect him and his craft.

[@southside6093]

roltthehunter That’s actually my second favorite to Anderson’s performance. They’re pretty much neck and neck for the #1 spot though. Anderson showed virtuoso musicianship while Mac poured his entire heart into his performance. Both beautiful in their own regard.

[@giogainz]

On meeee

[@fxxbeautyy]

Factssssss

[@mikefoote404]

I hope this is someones first time hearing 'fallin'. Such a gift.

[@solferreira3463]

It was my first time, and now I have it on repeat :D It's stunning!

[@andyn5379]

It’s incredible...I heard it when it first came out in 2000 or 2001. Imagining this performance is someone‘s first time is amazing. I love music

[@SaraMakeupCH]

Wow it was an amazing version, goosebumps all over me !

[@thespine29]

was my first time hearing it. chills.

[@jakeevans2524]

It was my first time. I got goosebumps

[@3choblast3r4]

holy sh.. I've rarely seen someone age so gracefully. She looks so beautiful and she's barely wearing any makeup or anything.

[@enchanted_apeling]

I have loved this woman since I was little and I don't think I could ever dislike her music. So much body. Those singers accompanying her really do something for me.

[@kuunami]

Her charisma is off the charts.

[@ArdentK9]

So much talent and class, so much wow

[@yonathannegash5675]

Her whole vibe makes me wanna turn my life around and become a better person!

[@TeaOnTue]

That's what music and art in general should do to you in my opinion. It's amazing when it evokes new feelings within you. Music is so powerful it can heal, it can change people, it can create real big holes in you filling you up with rage, then fill them back up with its humbling existence and make what once were big holes a safe home inside of you by kissing your soul gently better. It shows you new possibilities of versions of yourself and opens up your horizons to the parts of humanity you didn't know existed. It's truly magical.

[@yonathannegash5675]

@@TeaOnTue Couldn't have said it better!

[@philhipp7766]

do it :)

[@danbenna5540]

It starts with the savior Jesus Christ

[@juanrivera5084]

Always

[@gretavbc8824]

I have watched this so many times it is so healing.

[@reclaimingminds2811]

Alicia Keys, a premier performer, writer and singer! Beautiful ❤

[@oneilgerald]

Fun fact: the background vocalists (RAII and Whitney) are married. That energy at 24:53 was just electric!

[@sakitrain7766]

aawww... thanks for the info. They're adorable.

[@filob.y.s.]

Connection maan ❤

[@luckystarpiano]

That’s what they mean “when it’s right,right!!!”

[@thomasDiamond8]

have you seen the video? she introduced them 19:15

[@LeoLopesLL]

1:38 Show me Love 8:57 Gramercy Park 14:20 Underdog 19:10 Alicia Introduceds the band 20:40 Fallin'

[@hukama6911]

npr should pin timestamp comment

[@PentameronSV]

@@hukama6911 Agreed.

[@jeromebouchot3437]

Thanks Léo !!!! 👏👏🥂🥂

[@ninadelaflores]

Straight up skipped to 20:40

[@contra998]

Up up up up

[@kingslim202]

Everyone of these each artists including the band and backup singers are having sooooooo much fun doin these. It’s just a vibe

[@CrAck-MoNey]

I've always respected Alicia Keys. This is the best performance for me.

[@callousconflict]

She’s probably tired of singing falling but with her band it was sooo fresh lol

[@carlospraia1242]

amazing stuff ey

[@swyxTV]

she looked like she enjoyed it tho, she knows we love it

[@Nessanat]

Hmm i dont think so because its her song and whenever she sings she does it with love and her soul so it’s always an opportunity of expression. At least that’s how I see it as a musician

[@Tubethevibe]

@@swyxTV For sure. You can really see how much she still loves to perform and it is so awesome to see.

[@blogotheque]

Having Alicia on our show was a blessing. Seeing her on the Tiny Desk is a joy... Thanks guys for this.

[@SajeMode]

What a plug 😂

[@joaoduarte3009]

Alicia’s Take a Away show SLAPS

[@ClaraKreimer]

The french basement gig was AMAZING. thanks you for that too!

[@plumeetpixels7062]

Every time I like an artist (Lianne LaHavas, Andrew Bird...and so on), I can hear exceptional and very special live performance on two chanels : La Blogothèque and NPR TDC... thanks both of you !

[@itcouldbegood]

@@SajeMode fr but if I had Alicia on my show I'd probably never shut up about it lol

[@valentinaudrain]

25:10 I just Said myself "she's the most beautiful". Her smile, that cracked voice when she talk and her so perfect voice when she sing. Her love of music.

[@anniewanyaga9983]

I love her aura

[@kimg.4015]

Nobody's commenting on how cute the backup singers stared into each other's eyes as they sang 24:55 😍

[@marisap09]

He has a great smile!

[@leratomotloi3063]

I said the same thing! ❤️It was so beautiful

[@timothykanyangale4269]

that was a beautiful moment

[@MissOJAY]

Seems the comment was waiting for you boo. I saw the moment, it was beautiful

[@jonbush7467]

That's because it's not genuine.

[@HotelCalifornia360]

Her background singers are like chocolate drops to my ears. Just sun kissed

[@tyedes4253]

Good people come together.

[@louisgarcia2800]

AND married to each other. Yesss! 👑🖤👑

[@vasko966]

Almost 2023 past and this Tiny Desk still is my go to for travelling, chilling, home parties and very common to stay on the tv for the whole day

[@antti_did_a_thing]

The soul and presence Alicia radiates is something else. Just something else.

[@Tony-rt4uz]

We need Alicia back on tiny desk 4 more times.

[@mfkanger]

YES, more jams to be had. "Mr. Man" would be so gotdamn fresh

[@olazurike]

my serotonin levels have skyrocketed WOW

[@amandalouise_]

seriously LOL

[@lauracollins2894]

Wowzers that Gremercy Park .... oooof! Packs a punch (gently and beautifully of course) love love love

[@anthonyesparza5436]

I heard Fallin' on the radio once and immediately went out and bought her album, Songs In A Minor. Hearing it tonight reminded me of that time in my life, the summer of 2001.

[@bryansimpson9858]

So REAL...the world needs more artists like this. She’s one in a billion.

[@spazman2k]

1 in 7billion

[@carsonbarnes1834]

@@spazman2k true true; there aren't 7 alicia keys. or 7.574 alicia keys lol

[@MarkEsquivel1229]

so there are 7.5 people just like her?

[@sidolanters1394]

she's not just a true artist, but a true entertainer as well. and she's SO sincere and sympathetic. love it!

[@WITNESSTHEFAME]

Sanía Iman on Spotify is one new artist like this!

[@febrinannisa1425]

THE BACKING VOCALISTS!!!! THEY OUT OF DIS WORLD!!! such an amazing couple and their chemistry with alicia’s vocal 💯 just wow

[@RAIIandWhitney]

Thank you so much! 🙏🏾

[@VeryNazStuff]

@@RAIIandWhitney you guys were outstanding!!

[@febrinannisa1425]

RAII & Whitney It’s natural to acknowledge both of your talent!!! i can tell you both really love music just by listening!! ❤️✨ lots of love from Indonesia 🇮🇩

[@benzibox00]

RAII & Whitney wow, just wow! Just followed you guys!

[@Silvana716]

@@RAIIandWhitney I am absolutely in awe and stunned by your voices.

[@toriturner8104]

This is still my fav tiny desk concert. Holy smokes! Ms. keys and your band, they take me on a trip and leave me happier at the end.

[@hsatin20]

Wow, stellar performer. Great backing band and singers.

[@donhyoki1179]

1:40 Show Me Love 8:55 Gramercy Park 14:19 Underdog 20:39 Fallin’

[@zedlicious]

Grandma’s Sea Park.... according to text captions 😂

[@zaharaabdul8878]

Thank you 😊

[@tiffanyward8263]

Not all heroes wear capes.

[@giasamuel7822]

She’s so NY!!!!

[@annaluisaoliveira2252]

Are you gonna see me when light gets dark? The sun goes down over Gramercy Park And it's become easy to hide pieces away Making up someone in the hope that you'll stay 'Cause I've been trying to be everything I think you want me to be I've been doing all the things that I think you wanna see I've been trying to fulfill you with your every need Now you're falling for a person that's not even me Said you're falling for a person that's not even me Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm (gimme the beat) Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm Now you're falling for a person that's not even me Don't get me wrong, I wasn't out to deceive I like the attention with your eyes on me The trouble with the truth is it's so hard to believe Now, here I stand with my heart on my sleeve And I've been trying to be everything I think you want me to be I've been doing all the things that I think you wanna see I've been trying to fulfill you with your every need Now you're falling for a person that's not even me Said you're falling for a person that's not even me Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm (gimme the beat) Mm, mm, mm Mm, mm, mm Now you're falling for a person that's not even me Now you're falling for a person that's not even me 'Cause I forgot about the person that I used to be

[@J_Janacua]

I’ve just seen her in Oakland she was great❤😊

[@Birmingham_racing]

Watched this several times still in love with the video. 31 million views in 3 years shows I'm not the only one who feels this way

[@FlamingGuitar123]

I can't believe she is almost 40. She has the energy and looks of a 22 year old

[@theoknodt6301]

You call it Kundalini Yoga bro (:

[@Alvaro_Athletics]

absolutely crazy...I have Been a fan since her first album, growing up with her, nearly same age...she looks like she didn't age

[@antoinep9733]

If there’s some kind of online Grammy awards, the Tiny Desk sound engineers need to win it. Outstanding as always.

[@NBSV1]

For sure. There’s been artists and songs I’ve heard on here then looked up the album and been disappointed when the album track isn’t as good.

[@peteshap1]

im an audio engineer. Not to knock the aa working for Tiny Desk but there's not much going on here. good instruments, good musicians, good mics. some solid mixing. It must be an absolute pleasure to work as a tech in that room.

[@catinheels88]

I don't have a clue how sound engineers work but even when Alicia dances and faces further away from the mic, there isn't that much difference in the volume of her singing. Not sure if that was a technical skill...

[@peteshap1]

@@catinheels88 she's in front of a small diaphragm directional mic but the room is small and well mic'd so adjacent mics strongly pick up her voice. It's a very natural recording. It's beautifully done.

[@catinheels88]

@@peteshap1 Thank you for explaining! :)

[@evrenince]

What a singer!

[@SyntetikVision]

The people that experienced this live, will never forget it!! Just Amazing

[@khue2626]

Totally agree amazing

[@stevencoutant2723]

She is one of the most gorgeous people on earth , inside and out.

[@zmagobrezovnik5327]

PO

[@mckafuielys7229]

Yeeeesssss ☺️🤩❤️❤️

[@edisonurena2278]

Yes! My platonic love!

[@fionnmaccumhaill1023]

People glorify singers so much, it's hilarious 😂😂

[@lovelee1772]

I'm sure the one who husband she stole disagrees.

[@livedeliciously]

I've always seen Tiny Desk as a proving ground for artists, established or not. The venue is so raw that there's no way to hide any weaknesses in your craft. I've always known Alicia Keys to be insanely talented, but this performance just reinforces that belief.

[@bricei.5235]

There are even some artists who expose their talent more than ever here in Tiny Desk. Like Tyler The Creator for instance. You realize he should always do it with just a drumer, two chorists, a jazz pianist and a double bass.

[@bricei.5235]

Well, maybe the performance is due to the surrounding musicians too.

[@jrose1999]

Yeah there's no way to hide I on this stage lol

[@AlejandroPlanell]

This is free therapy ❤🫶🏼

[@oldgamernewtricks]

Nothing better than true talent...on the "keyes" and the vocals....No studio assist needed....

[@theresayoung2250]

Oh sooooo soulful and smooth

[@rocknroller1986]

1:39 Show me Love 8:53 Gramercy Park 14:20 Underdog 20:38 Fallin'

[@PentameronSV]

I'm late again, but thanks!

[@skullbeats758]

👊👊👊👊

[@katanaevans5412]

this is one of the most beautiful tiny desk concerts in existence

[@goldfishonthefloor44]

I love Tiny Desk concerts

[@VTSander]

*Mac enters chat*

[@NineteenEighty8]

Mac was wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy better. Alicia kind of sounded off.

[@RAIIandWhitney]

Thank you! We're grateful that enjoyed it!

[@ldicke5238]

On everything it truly is.

[@user-sq8jl8ms4u]

Alicia Keys sings with her heart, her soul and her whole body to the point of sharing her music and swing in New York bars. She has loved (classical & pop) piano since she was 3 years old. This American artist of R&B and soul music as a singer-songwriter includes 9 studio albums, one live album, 9 soundtracks, 17 singles, 18 videos + 2 DVDs = J Records.

[@Dan-ue7gy]

Keep coming back to this one. Alicia is an outstanding and talented artist. The vibe you get from watching this is off the scale. I love the way the rest of her band seem so passionate and are loving life. It’s a joy to watch. Nothing but talent in that room.

[@tre4440]

The background singers did NOT have to devour this like that. Wow, EVERY single musician in this performance did what needed to be done.

[@mariellenking2365]

Na, I love that she encuorages her background volcalists to shine. One more thing to love about her.

[@gosur6860]

The moment at 25:56 is insane- all members of the band looking to Alicia on what to do next because everything after 25:10 (when Alicia tells her band to "break it down") is pretty much improv'd. Then she plays what I believe to be diminished chords and her bassist and drummer are all on page just like that. It's crazy how in sync they are with each other, you can only build that after years and years of playing together. Even Alicia gets excited in the moment, you love to see these type of things in live music

[@percaelumvolo]

Thanks for bringing those moments to my attention. I went back and replayed those last couple minutes but they just flew by. Magic!

[@Dairkun]

Agreed. The crowd disappeared for them in those moments there.

[@thexplode7]

Any good band can follow their singer

[@shredtheorysnow]

Incredible. Not to argue with you, but if anything solidify what you are saying about how in the zone they are. They may have "broken it down" more than once

[@roguelife6205]

everyone agreeing does not know music.... to break it down is to go back to the basic fundamentals of the song which THEY KNEW EXACTLY what it was and immediately went to it so she could call on the fans to recite the obvious lyrics. Breaking IT down is NOT a Breakdown. Break it down ~ a part in the song where the melodic instruments stop playing and the drums remain (maybe with a repeated vocal over top or just the drums and bass grooving.)

[@phillipcherry4384]

Everytime she amazes me with that voice! Seems like a truly beautiful person with a beautiful soul and a gift we are blessed to have shared with us.

[@brentonwebb5097]

What a performance. Band, and backup singers 🔥 Show me love ❤

[@indorock]

NPR staff all got pipes, didn't hear anyone off key.

[@kev4366]

i think they must be singing scales in their interviews XD

[@user-jv8hn4oj3m]

Her band is close like they aint fakin. She's had the same background singers and everyone for many years. Seen them at all concerts i been to of hers..they are a family.

[@h.a.t.5321]

They are all absolutely incredible, I've never seen so much talent work in harmony together. No ego's. Family like you said.

[@bobcatransom]

It’s pretty amazing. Also just watching their faces when she sings. They’re equally just super happy, and totally ,completely enamored by her. So rad.

[@RichardKokeny]

JAZZZZ 😍😍😍😍😍🥵🙏

[@adamschlinker972]

The guitarist playing a Guild guitar is so rad. Alicia and the band/singers are so tight.

[@george_yeh]

Alicia is a fine example of what the music industry has done right.

[@RyanBlackhawke]

Mainly by getting out of her way and letting her be true to her music and her self.

[@jesminkhatun8816]

Ali

[@nternetrat]

all her, i wouldn't give any credit to the music industry ;)

[@BadFluffy]

You mean she's one rare example of a real artist who managed to succeed in spite of the industry trying to choke her up and formatting her into the same yoghurt everyone else does.

[@frankjrpagmanua650]

Mad props to her background singers singing like a full on choir. Blew me away.

[@shekilopezify]

I LOVE YOU ALICIA! THERE IS NO OTHER WORDS ! I love hearing you talking about everything and love playin piano too. THANKS por this video!

[@crystalchurch1810]

cannot get enough of this particular tiny dance w you ms keys… you and your band mates better know how powerful your magic is

[@jessicasteiner2720]

It’s the way she aint even tryin that really does it for me. Her effortless, contagious vibes filled with top shelf positivity is undeniable.

[@Kaelahsb]

J D why watch the video then 🤔

[@Ismeen]

I love how the band were almost in like a trance over her. The vibe is unmatched.

[@sarahbellum3578]

100%%%%

[@davidhickey8613]

if the woman was singing in front of you, i'm sure you'd be the same way

[@crystalchurch1810]

we need so so much more of you and your vibe over here in clallam county u!!! ;) i’ll still be there your next seattle show tho too!!!!!!!!

[@Jaxxx777]

that 'one conversation' (underdog) song and of course fallin spoke to my soul. love some miss keys!!

[@iamjustbeny]

The performance of the "Fallin’" was out of this world!

[@celestemnguni]

It fell out of heaven

[@iequezada]

Man, if that performance didn´t move you, you're not human

[@emeriscottii409]

I got CHILLZ!!!

[@norahhendriks5202]

Alicia Keys on Tiny Desk feels SO natural, because she makes all her performances an intimate experience between her and the audience

[@jagodaolejarz6118]

Norah Hendriks True! 🙌🏼