Alicia Keys

I feel the presence of a higher power. I believe that what you give is what you get. It’s universal law. I believe in the power of prayer and of words. I’ve learned that when you predict that negative things will happen, they do.

I was subscribing to this sick identity. … Stay in your place, be feminine, be a lady, don’t make too much noise.

I’m meant to be an artist who can stand on my own. That’s my place; that’s what I’m supposed to do.

Everyone deserves an equal chance at success.

I love learning about different religions, and discovering the different ways to worship, and to love the greatness and the higher being that surrounds us all. I definitely believe in a bigger presence, and I really respect all religions; at their core they all teach the same message – community and kindness and looking out for each other.

What I learned the most from Prince was putting art first, being creatively ambitious, and putting creativity at the forefront of what I do.

By giving the public a rich and full melody, distinctly arranged and well played, all the time creating new tone colors and patterns, I feel we have a better chance of being successful. I want a kick to my band, but I don’t want the rhythm to hog the spotlight.

Don’t settle for style. Succeed in substance.

Anyone who doesn’t give [his debut album, The College Dropout] a perfect score is lowering the integrity of the magazine

Deep, unspeakable suffering may well be called a baptism, a regeneration, the initiation into a new state.

I’m no good with chords. I’m horrible with chords.

The more vulnerable and the more confused the song is, the equal and opposite effect is how I feel after having written it.

Music and life are all about style.

I’m fortunate that I’m making a living at it now because I’m not equipped to do anything else.

Technique is the ability to translate your ideas into sound through your instrument. This is a comprehensive technique . . . a feeling for the keyboard that will allow you to transfer any emotional utterance into it. What has to happen is that you develop a comprehensive technique and then say, forget that. I’m just going to be expressive through the piano.

I’ve found you’ve got to look back at the old things and see them in a new light.

After two takes you’re imitating yourself.

Django was the definitive genius on the guitar, and the depth of his gift was so spectacular.

Jazz translates the moment into a sense of inspiration for not only the musicians but for the listeners.

Indian music is very soulful and the only other school that develops improv to the high degree you find in Jazz.

While many forms of music may use the dynamic of improvisation, Jazz exemplifies the unique characteristic of collective improvisation.