Alicia Keys’ upcoming album, Keys, is set to be released on December 10.
The Grammy-winning artist recently spoke to Marie Claire about feeling creatively free and powerful: “I’m reaching a place where I’m much more confidently clear about the power,” she said.
Reflecting on her career, the 40-year-old singer noted, “As you grow, your trajectory goes higher. Then, you get to more of what you were always searching for.” She added, “You get to do all these things that take you higher and higher, and that’s how I see myself: ‘I’m the best I’ve ever been.'”
In the double covers for the magazine, Alicia stᴜnned in an off-the-shoulder black jacket with her hair braided back and also posed for a drаmаtic black and white image. She expressed that she has never felt as strong and free creatively as she does now. “I’ve always been strong and determined. I haven’t not known my power, but now I’m clearly aware of it all, as opposed to just pieces of it.”
The mother of two, married to fellow singer Swizz Beatz, shared that it took time to reach a place where she wasn’t dictated by others’ opinions. The new album was created entirely at the piano, which she described as a return to her roots, exploring a jazzy energy she started with. She aimed to create with confidence and own her unique style.
Alicia has previously discussed her burnout in fall 2006, which she wrote about in her 2020 book, More Myself. She explained that the constant pressure and pretending led to a facade of perfection. This experience taught her to reassess how she spends her time, emphasizing the importance of family and personal time.
Alicia and Swizz Beatz, who married on July 31, 2010, have two sons: Egypt, 11, and Genesis, 6. Swizz has three other children from previous relationships. The couple maintains strong communication, never raising their voices at each other. Alicia described their relationship as best friends who understand each other’s lifestyles due to their shared musical background.
Her album Keys will be released on December 10, 2021.