Alicia Keys is overflowing with pride for her eldest son, Egypt.
The “Underdog” singer recorded her song with Egypt, her and husband Swizz Beatz’s son. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Keys shared her thoughts on Egypt’s growing interest in the music industry.
“I could hardly believe it. I started tearing up and felt a little emotional, and he’s like, ‘Mom, what’s going on?’ And I’m just like [laughs], ‘Oh, nothing!’ It’s just incredible,” she shared.
“And you know, sometimes it’s hard to even find the courage to try, and I wouldn’t have blamed him if he said, ‘Maybe not right now.’ But he was open to it. He has such a beautiful voice,” Keys added.
Keys and Egypt recorded their own rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” a song they’ve sung together since he was a baby. Their mother-son collaboration is featured on Keys’ Sweet Dreams EP, which is now available.
“So, I have to say, I was in full-on super proud mom mode,” Keys shared with ET.
Although she previously expressed uncertainty about whether Egypt would pursue a career in music like his parents, the former Voice coach is eager to support his talents. Keys also mentioned to ET that she plans to take him to a Silk Sonic concert for musical inspiration.
“When I hear him play, I always stop in my tracks,” she told the outlet. “I listen closely to his chords and choices. It’s no surprise, though, because he’s always had a natural connection to music. He sings a lot of Bruno Mars, and when Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak go on tour, I’m definitely taking Egypt with me. I think it would really expand his understanding of what’s possible.”
Keys has frequently praised Egypt’s musical talents, sharing videos on social media of him playing the piano and singing at home.
In a touching moment from her YouTube Originals docuseries Noted: Alicia Keys The Untold Story, she and Egypt watched a clip from the 2019 iHeartRadio Music Awards, where Egypt accompanied her on piano as she sang “Raise a Man.” Watching the video together brought tears to the “Girl on Fire” singer’s eyes.
“He’s been a natural since he was a baby, and I’m so happy that he loves it,” she shared in October. “He’s a lot like me—he’s the life of the party, the one who brings everyone together. He looks out for everyone, and I really admire that about him.”
Along with Egypt, Keys and Swizz Beatz (real name: Kasseem Daoud Dean) are also parents to Genesis.