Alicia Keys backs 'Underdog' in new single and video, will return as host for upcoming 2020 Grammys
Alicia Keys is showing promise of embarking on the road to an awesome comeback with her new single and official music video 'Underdog', released January 9. According to Billboard, 'Underdog' had the contemporary R&B star working with Ed Sheeran on the writing credits and Wendy Morgan, who directed the video.
The music video coupled with the lyrics offers those enduring through struggling times a chance to be inspired by uplifting words and a feel-good musical score. It seeks out those who feel neglect and disregard in modern society, addressing people with everyday jobs, those without and children dealing with harmful situations at home.
Keys leads a crowd in the music video and her listeners with an empowering and encouraging spirit, carried by her smooth voice and consistently confident presence. It is clear Keys has the everyday man at heart, addressing "hustlers trading at the bus stop, single mothers waiting on a check to come, young teachers, student doctors, sons on the front line knowing they don't get to run".
Delivering her lines, Keys reveals a story mirroring her own personal experiences in trying to make a name for themself or just trying to make it through the day. The music charges its listeners with pure positivity; carrying elements of upbeat soulful R&B with traces of pop and reggae.
According to Billboard, Keys revealed in a press release, "Some people may think of the word underdog as a negative word, but I see it as a powerful word representing people who may be underestimated and yet still rise to the challenge and exceed expectations. I love this song so much because it's about real life and real people and our experiences. We've all been in a place in our lives where we've had to defy the odds. It's never easy. One of my favorite lyrics in the song is, 'They say I would never make it but I was built to break the mold.' I don't think there's a person on the planet that hasn't felt that way."
'Underdog' will appear on Keys' upcoming seventh album titled 'Alicia', along with her previously released singles 'Time Machine' and 'Show Me Love.' Additionally, Keys will make a return as the host for this year's Grammys on January 26.
You can watch the inspirational new video 'Underdog' here.