Back in October 2016, Alicia Keys threw a surprise concert in the middle of New York City’s Times Square to support her then-forthcoming studio album, Here.
For the outdoor concert in the middle of America’s busiest intersection, Keys invited a bevy of special guests to contribute to the musical celebration, including John Mayer and Questlove–who previously shared a stage at the Roots Picnic in Bryant Park the weekend before. Hip-hop heavyweights Q-Tip, Jay-Z, and Nas were also among the list of notable musicians who performed at the pop-up event.
One of the most noteworthy numbers from the performance was the exquisite collaboration between Mayer, Questlove, and Keys on a very special rendition of “If I Ain’t Got You”.
Once the pianist/singer started into the 2003 hit single, Questlove strolled in and took a seat behind the kit. Mayer eventually joined the stage and helped carry the vocals for the song’s second verse. Alicia mused with a smile while Mayer took the stage as she said, “Take your time, we just up here vibin’.” The two sang the chorus together before Mayer took a bluesy guitar solo which eventually meandered into “Gravity” from Mayer’s own 2006 Continuum album. The two vocalists shared the song beautifully before returning to “If I Ain’t Got You”. The mash-up was one that any music lover could appreciate time and time again. Check it out below.
Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Questlove & More – “If I Ain’t Got You” > “Gravity” > “If I Ain’t Got You” – 10/9/16 [Pro-Shot]
[Video: didjital vibe]
Happy birthday, Alicia Keys! Thanks for all the incredible music you’ve given us over the years.
[Originally published 1/25/17]