Alicia Keys is celebrated not only for her powerful voice and skilled piano playing but also for her ability to seamlessly blend R&B, soul, and pop into a unique and emotionally resonant sound. Her music, characterized by themes of love, empowerment, and personal growth, has influenced a generation of artists who share her dedication to authenticity and artistry.
For fans of Alicia Keys, there are many other singers who embody similar qualities, bringing their own distinct voices and styles to the music world.
This article explores some of the top artists who, like Alicia Keys, are known for their soulful sound and heartfelt performances.
21 Soulful R&B Singers Similar to Alicia Keys for Your Groovin’ Playlist
Contents
- 1 21 Soulful R&B Singers Similar to Alicia Keys for Your Groovin’ Playlist
- 2 #1 John Legend
- 3 #2 H.E.R.
- 4 #3 Adele
- 5 #4 Jazmine Sullivan
- 6 #5 India.Arie
- 7 #6 Emeli Sandé
- 8 #7 Mary J. Blige
- 9 #8 Alicia Olatuja
- 10 #9 Joss Stone
- 11 #10 Tori Kelly
- 12 #11 Corinne Bailey Rae
- 13 #12 Leona Lewis
- 14 #13 Andra Day
- 15 #14 Lianne La Havas
- 16 #15 Sade
- 17 #16 Solange
- 18 #17 Emily King
- 19 #18 Esperanza Spalding
- 20 #19 Marsha Ambrosius
- 21 #20 Alessia Cara
- 22 #21 Keyshia Cole
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These artists share Alicia Keys’ affinity for blending soulful vocals with heartfelt lyrics and often feature strong piano or acoustic elements in their music.
Here’s a list of 21 singers who share similarities with Alicia Keys, known for their soulful voices, strong piano skills, and a blend of R&B, soul, and pop:
#1 John Legend
John Legend, born John Roger Stephens in 1978, is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who has made a significant impact on contemporary R&B and soul music. He began his career collaborating with major artists like Kanye West and Jay-Z before releasing his debut album Get Lifted in 2004. The album, which included the hit single “Ordinary People,” showcased his smooth vocals and piano-driven sound, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and establishing him as a leading voice in modern soul music.
Legend’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with soulful melodies, often accompanied by his signature piano, has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys. His subsequent albums, including Once Again (2006) and Love in the Future (2013), further solidified his place in the music industry, with hits like “All of Me” becoming anthems of love and commitment. Beyond his music, John Legend is also known for his activism and philanthropy, making him a respected figure both on and off the stage.
#2 H.E.R.
H.E.R., born Gabriella Wilson in 1997, is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who has quickly risen to prominence in the R&B and soul music scenes. She began her career at a young age, initially performing under her real name before rebranding as H.E.R., which stands for “Having Everything Revealed.” Her self-titled compilation album, released in 2017, showcased her smooth, soulful voice and deep emotional expression, earning her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards.
H.E.R.’s music is characterized by its introspective lyrics, blending elements of R&B, soul, and contemporary pop, often accompanied by her skilled guitar and piano playing. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength in her music has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her approach to songwriting and live performances. H.E.R. continues to be a powerful force in the music industry, known for her authenticity and musical versatility, which resonate deeply with a broad audience.
#3 Adele
Adele, born Adele Laurie Blue Adkins in 1988, is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and emotive, piano-driven ballads. She first gained attention with her debut album 19 (2008), which featured the hit single “Chasing Pavements” and showcased her ability to convey deep emotion through her soulful voice. However, it was her second album, 21 (2011), that catapulted her to global fame, with songs like “Rolling in the Deep” and “Someone Like You” becoming anthems of heartbreak and resilience.
Adele’s music is often compared to Alicia Keys for its soulful blend of pop and R&B, with a strong emphasis on piano accompaniment and emotionally charged lyrics. Her subsequent albums, 25 (2015) and 30 (2021), continued her streak of commercial and critical success, solidifying her as one of the most influential and best-selling artists of her generation. Adele’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level has made her a global icon in the music industry.
#4 Jazmine Sullivan
Jazmine Sullivan, born in 1987 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an American singer-songwriter known for her rich, soulful voice and powerful R&B ballads. She first gained recognition with her debut album Fearless (2008), which included the hit singles “Need U Bad” and “Bust Your Windows.” The album showcased her unique blend of contemporary R&B with elements of jazz, soul, and hip-hop, earning her critical acclaim and several Grammy nominations.
Sullivan’s ability to convey deep emotion and storytelling in her music has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her approach to crafting soulful, relatable songs. Her subsequent albums, including Love Me Back (2010) and Heaux Tales (2021), further solidified her reputation as one of the leading voices in modern R&B. Jazmine Sullivan’s powerful vocals, coupled with her ability to address complex themes such as love, heartbreak, and empowerment, have made her a standout artist in the genre.
#5 India.Arie
India.Arie, born India Arie Simpson in 1975, is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her soulful voice, acoustic sound, and positive, uplifting messages. She first gained attention with her debut album Acoustic Soul (2001), which included the hit single “Video.” The album’s success, marked by its blend of neo-soul, R&B, and folk influences, earned her multiple Grammy nominations and established her as a prominent voice in contemporary soul music.
India.Arie’s music is often compared to Alicia Keys for its emphasis on self-love, empowerment, and social consciousness, often accompanied by her skilled guitar and piano playing. Her subsequent albums, such as Voyage to India (2002) and Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship (2006), continued to explore themes of spirituality, love, and personal growth, earning her widespread acclaim. India.Arie’s commitment to using her music as a platform for positive change has made her an influential figure in the music industry and beyond.
#6 Emeli Sandé
Emeli Sandé, born Adele Emily Sandé in 1987, is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and deeply emotive, piano-driven ballads. She first gained prominence with her debut album Our Version of Events (2012), which became the best-selling album in the UK that year and included hits like “Next to Me” and “Clown.” Sandé’s music is characterized by its blend of R&B, soul, and pop influences, with lyrics that often explore themes of love, resilience, and social justice.
Sandé’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music, often accompanied by her strong piano playing, has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys. Her follow-up albums, Long Live the Angels (2016) and Real Life (2019), continued to showcase her vocal prowess and songwriting skills, solidifying her place as one of the leading voices in British soul music. Emeli Sandé’s music resonates with a wide audience, and her contributions to the music industry have earned her numerous awards and accolades.
#7 Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige, born in 1971 in The Bronx, New York, is often referred to as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul” for her pioneering blend of R&B, soul, and hip-hop influences. She first gained widespread recognition with her debut album What’s the 411? (1992), which included hits like “Real Love” and “You Remind Me.” Blige’s music is characterized by her raw, emotional delivery, powerful vocals, and deeply personal lyrics that often explore themes of love, pain, and resilience.
Mary J. Blige’s ability to fuse soulful melodies with contemporary beats has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her focus on conveying real, lived experiences through music. Over the years, Blige has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including My Life (1994) and The Breakthrough (2005), earning multiple Grammy Awards and solidifying her status as an R&B icon. Beyond her music, Blige has also made significant contributions to acting and philanthropy, making her a respected figure in both the entertainment industry and beyond.
#8 Alicia Olatuja
Alicia Olatuja is an American vocalist with a background in classical training, known for her rich, soulful voice that effortlessly blends jazz, gospel, and R&B. She first gained major recognition in 2013 when she performed as the featured soloist with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir at President Barack Obama’s second inauguration. Olatuja’s debut album Timeless (2014) showcased her ability to navigate complex jazz compositions while infusing them with soulful warmth and emotional depth.
Olatuja’s music, characterized by its sophisticated blend of jazz and soul, has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her ability to convey deep emotion through her powerful vocal performances. Her subsequent albums, including Intuition: Songs from the Minds of Women (2019), have further established her as a unique voice in contemporary jazz and soul, known for her ability to interpret songs with both technical skill and heartfelt expression. Alicia Olatuja continues to build a dedicated following with her captivating live performances and recordings.
#9 Joss Stone
Joss Stone, born in 1987 in Dover, England, is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful, soulful voice and her ability to blend R&B, soul, and blues influences. She first gained attention as a teenager with her debut album The Soul Sessions (2003), a collection of classic soul covers that showcased her mature, emotive voice. Stone’s follow-up album Mind, Body & Soul (2004) included original material and featured hits like “You Had Me,” further solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in contemporary soul music.
Joss Stone’s ability to channel the spirit of classic soul while adding a modern twist has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her vocal delivery and musical versatility. Over the years, Stone has continued to release successful albums, collaborate with a wide range of artists, and explore different musical styles, from reggae to funk. Despite her young age at the time of her debut, Stone has maintained a long and successful career, earning numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to music.
#10 Tori Kelly
Tori Kelly, born in 1992 in Wildomar, California, is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals, acoustic sound, and blend of pop, R&B, and soul influences. She first gained recognition through her YouTube covers and self-released EPs before signing with a major label. Kelly’s debut album Unbreakable Smile (2015) featured the hit single “Nobody Love” and showcased her vocal range and songwriting abilities, earning her widespread acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Tori Kelly’s ability to blend pop melodies with soulful, emotive vocals has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her use of piano and acoustic guitar to create intimate, heartfelt songs. Her follow-up album Hiding Place (2018), a gospel-influenced project, won two Grammy Awards and further highlighted her versatility as an artist. Kelly continues to release new music and tour, solidifying her place as one of the most talented and respected young voices in contemporary music.
#11 Corinne Bailey Rae
Corinne Bailey Rae, born in 1979 in Leeds, England, is a British singer-songwriter known for her smooth, soulful voice and acoustic-driven R&B. She first gained international fame with her self-titled debut album Corinne Bailey Rae (2006), which included the hit single “Put Your Records On.” Rae’s music is characterized by its warm, mellow sound, blending elements of soul, jazz, and pop, with lyrics that often explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth.
Corinne Bailey Rae’s ability to create intimate, emotionally resonant songs with a soulful, acoustic edge has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her approach to blending classic and contemporary influences. Her subsequent albums, including The Sea (2010) and The Heart Speaks in Whispers (2016), have continued to receive critical acclaim, solidifying her reputation as one of the leading voices in modern soul. Rae’s music continues to resonate with listeners around the world, known for its soothing, yet powerful impact.
#12 Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis, born in 1985 in London, England, is a British singer-songwriter who rose to fame after winning the third series of The X Factor in 2006. Her debut single “Bleeding Love” became an international hit, topping charts in over 30 countries and establishing her as a global pop sensation. Lewis’s debut album Spirit (2007) showcased her powerful, emotive voice and featured a mix of pop, R&B, and soul influences, earning her numerous awards and accolades.
Leona Lewis’s ability to convey deep emotion through her powerful vocals has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her ability to deliver both soaring ballads and intimate, heartfelt songs. Her subsequent albums, including Echo (2009) and Glassheart (2012), continued to showcase her vocal range and versatility, solidifying her place as one of the leading voices in contemporary pop and R&B. Despite facing challenges in the music industry, Lewis has continued to evolve as an artist, maintaining a loyal fanbase and a strong presence in the music world.
#13 Andra Day
Andra Day, born Cassandra Monique Batie in 1984, is an American singer-songwriter and actress known for her powerful voice and vintage R&B sound, reminiscent of classic soul and jazz artists. She gained widespread attention with her debut album Cheers to the Fall (2015), which included the hit single “Rise Up.” Day’s music is characterized by its rich, soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a blend of contemporary R&B with influences from jazz, blues, and gospel.
Andra Day’s ability to channel the spirit of classic soul while addressing contemporary themes has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her use of powerful, emotional performances to convey messages of resilience and empowerment. In addition to her music career, Day has also received critical acclaim for her acting, most notably for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in the 2021 film The United States vs. Billie Holiday, for which she won a Golden Globe Award. Andra Day continues to be a significant voice in both music and film, known for her talent and commitment to her craft.
#14 Lianne La Havas
Lianne La Havas, born in 1989 in London, England, is a British singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her soulful voice and acoustic-driven, emotionally resonant music. She first gained recognition with her debut album Is Your Love Big Enough? (2012), which showcased her ability to blend soul, folk, and jazz influences into a unique and captivating sound. La Havas’s music is characterized by its intimate, stripped-down arrangements, often featuring her guitar playing and heartfelt, introspective lyrics.
Lianne La Havas’s ability to create deeply personal, soulful music with a focus on acoustic instrumentation has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her approach to blending classic and contemporary influences. Her subsequent albums, Blood (2015) and Lianne La Havas (2020), have continued to receive critical acclaim, solidifying her reputation as one of the leading voices in modern soul and alternative R&B. La Havas’s music continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, known for its beauty, honesty, and emotional depth.
#15 Sade
Sade, born Helen Folasade Adu in 1959 in Ibadan, Nigeria, is a British-Nigerian singer-songwriter known for her smooth, soulful voice and a unique blend of R&B, jazz, and soft rock. She first gained international fame with her debut album Diamond Life (1984), which included the hit single “Smooth Operator.” Sade’s music is characterized by its sophisticated, laid-back sound, often accompanied by her sultry vocals and introspective lyrics that explore themes of love, longing, and emotional resilience.
Sade’s ability to create timeless, emotionally resonant music with a focus on lush arrangements and smooth, soulful delivery has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her approach to blending different genres to create a distinctive sound. Over the years, Sade has continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including Love Deluxe (1992) and Soldier of Love (2010), solidifying her status as one of the most respected and influential artists in contemporary music. Despite her long career, Sade remains an enigmatic figure, known for her artistic integrity and commitment to her craft.
#16 Solange
Solange, born Solange Piaget Knowles in 1986 in Houston, Texas, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her eclectic blend of R&B, soul, and art-pop. The younger sister of Beyoncé, Solange has carved out her own unique niche in the music industry with her innovative sound and artistic vision. She gained widespread acclaim with her third studio album A Seat at the Table (2016), which tackled themes of race, identity, and empowerment with a deeply personal and introspective approach.
Solange’s ability to blend soulful melodies with experimental production and thought-provoking lyrics has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her focus on authenticity and creative expression. Her subsequent album When I Get Home (2019) further solidified her reputation as a visionary artist, known for her willingness to push the boundaries of contemporary R&B and explore new sonic landscapes. Solange continues to be a powerful voice in music and culture, known for her artistry and commitment to social justice.
#17 Emily King
Emily King, born in 1985 in New York City, is an American singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and a blend of R&B, pop, and acoustic elements. She first gained attention with her debut album East Side Story (2007), which earned her a Grammy nomination and showcased her ability to craft heartfelt, melodic songs that resonate with a wide audience. King’s music is characterized by its warm, intimate sound, often featuring acoustic guitar and lush, harmonized vocals.
Emily King’s ability to create deeply personal, soulful music with a focus on storytelling and emotional connection has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her use of stripped-down arrangements and introspective lyrics. Her subsequent albums, including The Switch (2015) and Scenery (2019), have continued to receive critical acclaim, solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in modern soul and pop music. King’s music continues to captivate listeners with its blend of simplicity and sophistication, known for its timeless appeal and emotional depth.
#18 Esperanza Spalding
Esperanza Spalding, born in 1984 in Portland, Oregon, is an American jazz bassist, singer, and composer known for her innovative blend of jazz, R&B, and classical music. She first gained widespread recognition when she won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2011, becoming the first jazz artist to ever receive the award. Spalding’s music is characterized by its complex, intricate arrangements, virtuosic musicianship, and a deep understanding of musical traditions, all while pushing the boundaries of genre.
Esperanza Spalding’s ability to blend jazz with other musical styles, while maintaining a strong focus on soulful, emotive expression, has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her approach to musicianship and innovation. Her albums, such as Radio Music Society (2012) and Emily’s D+Evolution (2016), showcase her unique artistic vision and have earned her critical acclaim across the music industry. Spalding continues to be a trailblazer in contemporary jazz and beyond, known for her fearless experimentation and commitment to her craft.
#19 Marsha Ambrosius
Marsha Ambrosius, born in 1977 in Liverpool, England, is a British singer-songwriter known for her rich, soulful voice and her work as part of the R&B duo Floetry. Ambrosius gained recognition in the early 2000s with Floetry’s debut album Floetic (2002), which included the hits “Say Yes” and “Getting Late.” The duo’s music is characterized by its smooth, sensual sound, blending elements of neo-soul, jazz, and spoken word.
Marsha Ambrosius’s ability to convey deep emotion through her powerful vocals has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her approach to crafting soulful, introspective ballads. After Floetry disbanded, Ambrosius embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums such as Late Nights & Early Mornings (2011) and Friends & Lovers (2014), both of which received critical acclaim. Ambrosius continues to be a respected figure in contemporary R&B, known for her vocal prowess and emotive songwriting.
#20 Alessia Cara
Alessia Cara, born Alessia Caracciolo in 1996 in Brampton, Ontario, is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and introspective, relatable lyrics. She first gained widespread attention with her debut single “Here” in 2015, which became a sleeper hit and established her as a fresh voice in the pop and R&B scenes. Cara’s debut album Know-It-All (2015) showcased her ability to blend catchy pop melodies with thoughtful, emotionally resonant lyrics, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Alessia Cara’s ability to connect with listeners through her authentic, heartfelt songwriting and soulful vocal delivery has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her focus on self-empowerment and emotional honesty. Her subsequent albums, including The Pains of Growing (2018) and In the Meantime (2021), have continued to showcase her growth as an artist, solidifying her reputation as one of the most relatable and talented young voices in contemporary music. Cara continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, known for her authenticity and emotional depth.
#21 Keyshia Cole
Keyshia Cole, born in 1981 in Oakland, California, is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and her ability to blend R&B with hip-hop and soul influences. She first gained recognition with her debut album The Way It Is (2005), which included the hits “I Changed My Mind” and “Love.” Cole’s music is characterized by its raw, emotional delivery, often exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth.
Keyshia Cole’s ability to convey deep emotion through her powerful vocals and relatable lyrics has drawn comparisons to Alicia Keys, particularly in her focus on creating soulful, introspective music that resonates with a wide audience. Her subsequent albums, including Just Like You (2007) and A Different Me (2008), continued to receive commercial success and critical acclaim, solidifying her place as one of the leading voices in contemporary R&B. Despite challenges in her personal life, Cole has maintained a successful career, known for her authenticity and emotional honesty in her music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualities do singers like Alicia Keys typically have?
Singers like Alicia Keys are known for their soulful voices, strong piano skills, and a blend of R&B, soul, and pop influences. They often write and perform emotionally resonant songs that focus on themes of love, empowerment, and personal growth.
Are there modern artists who follow in Alicia Keys’ musical footsteps?
Yes, artists like H.E.R., John Legend, and Emeli Sandé are modern musicians who share a similar blend of soulful vocals, piano-driven melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. They continue the tradition of blending R&B with contemporary pop elements.
How do singers like Alicia Keys influence the music industry?
Singers like Alicia Keys influence the music industry by blending classical training with contemporary styles, pushing the boundaries of R&B and pop. Their focus on authentic storytelling and emotional depth resonates with a wide audience, inspiring both listeners and fellow artists.
What makes Alicia Keys’ style unique compared to other artists?
Alicia Keys’ style is unique due to her combination of classical piano training with soulful, powerful vocals and a knack for writing songs that balance pop accessibility with deep emotional content. Her ability to fuse genres like R&B, soul, and pop has set her apart as a versatile and influential artist.
