Let's talk about the best Alicia Keys albums. Alicia Keys, the R&B star with a penchant for piano-led ballads, has kept us entertained for over two decades with her dynamic discography. Her powerful vocals and soulful delivery have gifted us with an impressive collection of nine studio albums. Today, we navigate through her illustrious musical journey, ranking her albums from nine to one.
music
Ranking the 9 Best Alicia Keys Albums
Getty Images
9. 'Santa Baby'
Year Released: 2022
In 2022, Alicia Keys delighted her fans with a seasonal treat, Santa Baby. This festive album saw Keys infuse her signature soulful style into holiday classics, creating a warm, joyful atmosphere. Tracks like her smooth, jazz-inflected rendition of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" and the heartfelt "Silent Night" showcased Keys' ability to add depth and warmth to traditional tunes, making Santa Baby a wonderful addition to any holiday music collection.
8. 'Alicia'
Year Released: 2020
Although Alicia's self-titled album exhibited her unparalleled vocal prowess and reflective songwriting, it didn't resonate as strongly with the fanbase as her previous works. Nevertheless, the Grammy-nominated single "Underdog" proved to be a standout track with its uplifting message and catchy hook.
7. 'Keys'
Year Released: 2021
Keys, Alicia's double-album released in 2021, represented a thrilling exploration of her creative versatility. Distinguished by two sides, 'Originals' and 'Unlocked', this album was a fusion of classic Keys' sound with innovative, reimagined versions. Tracks like "LaLa" and "Old Memories" carried the album's ambitious vision, offering a dual narrative that allowed listeners to experience the music in a whole new light.
6. 'Girl On Fire'
Year Released: 2012
Keys brought an inferno of energy and emotion with Girl on Fire. Its titular track became an instant global hit, reaffirming Keys' ability to create anthems of empowerment. However, in the shadow of such a bold title track, the rest of the album felt somewhat subdued.
5. 'Here'
Year Released: 2016
Taking a more raw and organic approach, Here showcases Keys' social consciousness. Tracks like "Blended Family (What You Do for Love)" highlight the complexities of modern relationships and family dynamics. While not her most commercial record, it was widely recognized for its thematic depth and artistic growth.
4. 'The Element of Freedom'
Year Released: 2009
This album saw Keys venturing into more pop-driven territory, a departure from her traditional soulful style. With hits like "Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down", it introduced her to new audiences and furthered her status as a global star.
3. 'As I Am'
Year Released: 2007
As I Am stands as a defining moment in Keys' career. With tracks such as "No One" and "Like You'll Never See Me Again", the album solidified her as a household name and showcased her talent for writing heartfelt anthems.
2. 'The Diary of Alicia Keys'
Year Released: 2003
In her sophomore album, Keys explored a broader range of styles, creating a deeper, more layered sound. The album spawned popular tracks like "You Don't Know My Name" and "If I Ain't Got You", solidifying Keys' standing as a multi-talented artist.
1. 'Songs In A Minor'
Year Released: 2003
At the number one spot on our list of the best Alicia Keys albums, we've got a special one: Songs In A Minor. Keys' debut album will always hold a special place in her discography. With a unique blend of soul, R&B, and jazz, Songs in A Minor introduced us to her unmatched musical prowess. It delivered iconic songs like "Fallin'" that remain fan favorites to this day.
More music stories:
Did you like this article?
