Alicia Keys’ Top Songs: 25 Hits That Made Her A Music Icon

Alicia Keys didn’t just arrive on the R&B scene in 2001; she practically kicked the door down, sat at a piano, and started singing like she’d been doing it for 40 years. From breathtaking piano ballads to hip-hop collaborations and giant New York anthems, these songs are not only beloved fan favorites, but they also helped Alicia Keys blossom from a promising young pianist into a global superstar. Here are 25 of Alicia Keys’ top songs that you need to bump right now.

25. “Girlfriend” — Songs in A Minor (2001)

Before the inspirational anthems and giant ballads, Alicia could bring the attitude. “Girlfriend” showed off the sassier side of her debut and proved she wasn’t simply a piano-playing balladeer.

24. “Unbreakable” — Unplugged (2005)

Warm, optimistic and wonderfully understated, “Unbreakable” off of the singer’s 2005 live album Unplugged, showed Alicia’s ability to make a positive message feel personal rather than preachy.

23. “Superwoman” — As I Am (2007)

The cape was optional; the vocals were not. “Superwoman” became one of Alicia’s signature empowerment songs and perfectly captured her inspirational side. Alicia’s ability to turn vulnerability into strength is one of her greatest trademarks, and “Superwoman” might be the clearest example. Empowering and downright infectious, it’s the musical equivalent of putting your hands on your hips and saying, “I’ve got this.” “Superwoman” won Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 2009.

22. “Teenage Love Affair” — As I Am (2007)

Sweet, flirtatious and packed with retro soul vibes, this was Alicia having some fun. The throwback sound made it one of the lighter—and catchier—moments of the As I Am era.

21. “Karma” — The Diary of Alicia Keys (2003)

Alicia gets her revenge—and makes it funky. “Karma” showed that the woman behind “Fallin’” could turn up the attitude and bring some serious rhythmic energy.

20. “Try Sleeping with a Broken Heart” — The Element of Freedom (2009)

This is for the Alicia Keys super fans. Dark, atmospheric and emotionally wrecked in the best possible way. “Try Sleeping with a Broken Heart” showed Alicia continuing to evolve beyond the traditional piano-ballad formula.