Early Childhood and Family Background
Alicia Keys was born Alicia Augello Cook on January 25, 1981, in New York City. She grew up in a modest apartment in Hell's Kitchen and was raised mostly by her mother, Teresa Augello, after her father left the family.
Early Musical Talent and Education
As a little girl, Keys showed a strong interest in music and began playing piano around age seven. She attended Professional Performing Arts School in Manhattan, where she focused on classical training and songwriting.
Childhood Influences and Later Career
Keys has cited gospel music, jazz, and R&B as early influences that shaped her style. Her childhood experiences in New York later helped inspire her storytelling and stage presence. Read more about her background on Biography.com.
