A long-awaited moment finally arrived on February 12, 2020, when the incomparable Alicia Keys graced the intimate setting of NPR Music's Tiny Desk. Entering the Washington D.C. studio with her signature effervescence and a striking canary yellow faux fur coat, Keys brought an undeniable aura of compassion and kindness that permeates her deeply introspective and mindful songwriting. This performance, years in the making, proved to be well worth the anticipation, offering a stripped-down yet powerful showcase of her artistry. With a charming observation about the "tiny" nature of the desk, Keys launched into a set that resonated profoundly, especially in the context of the challenging times that followed its recording. She opened with "Show Me Love," a 2019 single, before offering a poignant premiere of "Gramercy Park" from her then-upcoming album, ALICIA. This timeless track, addressing the perils of selflessness, quickly became a spiritual refrain. The set continued with "Underdog," a recent hit, and culminated in a crowd-demanded encore of her iconic 2001 breakout single, "Fallin'." Keys's performance was a masterclass in emotional delivery, weaving themes of love, reflection, and accountability into every note, providing a much-needed sense of healing and introspection through her powerful vocals and piano.
Setlist: