About this album
Sound:
"Raw, emotive performances highlight Alicia Keys' soulful vocals and poignant songwriting in an intimate setting."
Where they were
Released on October 7, 2005, 'Unplugged' was Alicia Keys' first live album following her commercial peak with 'The Diary of Alicia Keys.' This album showcases her transition into a more stripped-down sound, emphasizing her talents as a performer and songwriter amid growing expectations from both fans and critics.
Why it matters
'Unplugged' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, marking her third consecutive album to achieve this feat. The album's raw interpretations of her hits garnered critical acclaim, further solidifying Keys' reputation as a leading figure in contemporary R&B and soul music.
Essential tracks
- "A Woman's Worth (live)" — This track exemplifies Keys' ability to infuse her live performances with emotional depth, showcasing her vocal prowess and lyrical strength.
- "If I Ain't Got You" — The live rendition strips down the song to its core, highlighting the heartfelt lyrics and allowing Keys' voice to shine without studio embellishments.
- "Fallin'" — 'Fallin'' remains one of Keys' signature songs; its live performance reinterprets the classic while maintaining its emotional intensity and connection with the audience.
- "How Come You Don't Call Me" — This track features a powerful vocal delivery that captures the pain of longing, demonstrating Keys' skill in conveying raw emotion.
Release Date
October 7, 2005
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Intro Alicia's Prayer (a cappella) 1:11
- 2 Karma 2:10
- 3 Heartburn 3:03
- 4 A Woman's Worth (live) 3:30
- 5 Unbreakable 4:34
- 6 How Come You Don't Call Me 5:23
- 7 If I Was Your Woman 4:04
- 8 If I Ain't Got You 4:06
- 9 Every Little Bit Hurts 4:01
- 10 Streets of New York (City Life) 7:35
- 11 Wild Horses 6:04
- 12 Diary 5:53
- 13 You Don't Know My Name 3:35
- 14 Stolen Moments 5:14
- 15 Fallin' 5:10
- 16 Love It or Leave It Alone / Welcome to Jamrock 6:43