Alicia Keys, 16th Grammy award winning artistrecently returned to New York City’s Professional Performing Arts School, where her musical journey began.
The visit came during a special segment on “CBS Morning” as Keys continues his remarkable year, which included a Grammy nomination for his role in the Broadway musical “Hell’s Kitchen.”
Keyes, who graduated as valedictorian, shared her memories of the school.
“I’ve always been an outgoing person. I’m definitely a troublemaker,” she laughed. “In a similar sense, I like to test people and challenge people. I was definitely, definitely challenging teachers.”
Keys looks back on his early musical experiences, signed his first record deal, and released his debut album at the age of 20, winning five Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year for his hit Fallin’. I remembered what I did.
“What I remember is… everything was possible. Everything was going to happen,” she said, looking around the school.
Keys reunites with former music teacher
Her visit also reminded Keys of her former music teacher, Linda Aziza Miller, who taught her how to arrange music and hone her craft.
“She taught me a lot about how to arrange music and how to arrange songs, which I took and poured into my music,” Keys said.
That teacher-student bond is now reflected in Keyes’ work. broadway production In “Hell’s Kitchen,” a character named Liza Jane is inspired by both Keyes’ grandmother and Ms. Aziza.
Aziza, who is currently an orchestral pianist for “Hell’s Kitchen” at the Shubert Theater, was moved by the reunion.
“This is really a moment I never saw coming,” she said.
The visit culminated in a surprise performance in drama class, where Keys joined the students in an impromptu performance of “This Girl Is on Fire.”
“It’s great to see you all,” Keyes told them. “I’m really honored to be here and talk to you and take a moment. Just let me know that I’m proud of you and that I really appreciate you. ”
Mr. Keyes also took the time to share some advice with the students.
“I want you to always be yourself,” she said. “Never forget that the more unique you are, the more you will stand out.”
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