Alicia Keys recently chatted with resident Hot97 reporter, Tai Marie while on the red carpet for her upcoming musical, Hell’s Kitchen. Taking place in Manhattan, circa the 1990s, the jukebox musical is loosely based on Keys’ life and background.
The 40-year-old singer revealed that the project was nearly 13 years in the making, and believes it’s a relatable coming-of-age story: “No matter who you are, or where you’re from, you can relate to this story,” she said.
In Keys’ opinion, her working on this project allowed her to reflect on her life and grow as a person. “[It’s been] a lot of healing in myself…Past relationships that were maybe difficult for me, I’ve been able to come to terms with them.”
Playwright Kristoffer Diaz helped pen the script, while the former child prodigy worked on its music and lyrics. Earlier this week, the musical opened on Broadway for the first time. The singer hopped on X( formerly Twitter), to share the good news with fans.
“Hell’s Kitchen OFFICIALLY opened on Broadway last night and I’m still feeling the buzz. Grateful and in awe of this amazing show!!! I’m normally not a crier but last night got me haaa!!” she began.
Keys continued: “I don’t even have the words… just know this show will change you @HellsKitchenBwy [heart emoji] It’s so amazing to a have New York story right in the heart of NY. Thank you deeply for all the love, connection and excitement for this show!! There is magic in the air [star emjoi].”
Born in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, Alicia Keys became a classically trained pianist at 12 years old, and would later sign to Columbia Records three years later. Her debut album, 2001’s Songs in A Minor, which features her hit track, “Fallin’” went on to sell 12 million copies globally.
Throughout her career, she obtained several accolades including, being a 16-time Grammy Award winner. In 2005, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), awarded Keys with the Songwriter of the Year at its Rhythm & Soul Music Awards.