Music Details
Artist
Label
Genre
More details
See more music reviews

Alicia Keys Unplugged (by Alicia Keys, R&B)

common sense media says

Favorite songs with new acoustic arrangements.

parents & educators say
See 2 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Alicia Keys keeps it light and family-safe on this made-for-TV live album.

Positive messages: Some gently positive, socially-conscious messages.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Just a bit of innuendo.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: MTV tie-in.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Alicia Keys Unplugged

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about whether they like "unplugged" versions of songs. They can compare the musical arrangements here with the same songs on the artist's studio CDs. How are the moods and meanings different here? Does plugging in give a song more power? Why or why not? What artists seem to translate well in an acoustic performance?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Alicia Keys' third album, ALICIA KEYS UNPLUGGED, recorded live at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, isn't really unplugged (unless you want to call a 16-piece backup band "unplugged"), but it's lovely, personal, and intimate. The producers at MTV couldn't have chosen a better artist to revive their "unplugged" series than Keys. Her talents, both vocally and on keyboard, are allowed to shine with less glossy production. One highlight is a duet with Maroon 5's Adam Levine on the Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses"; another is "You Don't Know My Name." Both songs offer a change in atmosphere from the versions we've all got stuck in our head, and both work beautifully.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
If arrangements seem loose and a little unstructured, Keys' excellent band keeps the groove strong and steady, the background vocals are exquisitely arranged, and the songs well-chosen. Her Brooklyn-accented speaking voice is charming and real as she introduces the songs and makes a genuine effort to connect with her audience. At its best, the unplugged Alicia Keys offers a personal glimpse inside the heart of a beloved and extremely talented young artist, and fans will adore this glimpse behind the curtain. The rest of us can sit back and enjoy the music.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: October 11, 2005
Label: J Records
Genre: R&B
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 
 

Review It

 

Review Alicia Keys Unplugged

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you add Alicia Keys Unplugged to your playlist?

Absolutely
Maybe
No way

Already listened to it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more music
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines