Sam Smith and Alicia Keys Spill Their Feelings Over a Grand Piano in ‘I’m Not the Only One’ Live Video
Jungle City Studios in New York recently became the backdrop for a heartfelt collaboration between two musical powerhouses, Sam Smith and Alicia Keys. This special live rendition of ‘I’m Not the Only One’ was part of the 10th anniversary edition of Smith’s debut album ‘In the Lonely Hour.’ The studio, known for its rich acoustics and intimate atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for this emotional performance. Keys, a virtuoso on the piano, added her soulful touch to the song, blending her vocals seamlessly with Smith’s. The chemistry between the two artists was palpable, creating a mesmerizing experience for anyone fortunate enough to witness it.
The song ‘I’m Not the Only One’ holds a special place in Sam Smith’s discography, originally featured on their debut album ‘In the Lonely Hour.’ This album, which catapulted Smith to international fame, is being reissued to celebrate its 10th anniversary. The reissue includes several new collaborations, but the duet with Alicia Keys stands out as a highlight. Keys’ contribution to the track is more than just musical; it brings a new layer of emotion and depth to the already poignant lyrics. The combination of Smith’s powerful voice and Keys’ emotive piano playing creates a version of the song that is both haunting and beautiful.
The Ava Rikki-directed music video for this collaboration adds another dimension to the performance. Filmed during Smith’s New York City Pride party at Julius, the iconic gay bar, the video captures the essence of celebration and camaraderie. It features cameos from notable figures such as drag icon Lady Bunny, adding a touch of glamour and fun to the proceedings. The video seamlessly blends scenes of the live performance with moments of joy and connection from the party, creating a visual narrative that complements the song’s themes of love and heartbreak. It’s a fitting tribute to both the song and the community that has supported Smith throughout their career.
The live performance of ‘I’m Not the Only One’ took place in the same venue as the music video shoot, adding to the sense of intimacy and authenticity. In a statement, Alicia Keys expressed her excitement about the collaboration, describing the recording session as a magical experience. She praised Smith’s artistry and the emotional honesty they bring to their music. For Smith, working with Keys was a dream come true, and the result is a testament to their mutual respect and admiration. The performance is a beautiful blend of their talents, showcasing their ability to convey deep emotion through music.
Smith announced the reissue of ‘In the Lonely Hour’ in June, revealing that it would feature collaborations with several high-profile artists, including Keys, John Legend, Mary J. Blige, and A$AP Rocky. The original album, released in 2014, included hits like ‘Stay With Me’ and ‘Not In That Way,’ songs that resonated with listeners around the world. Revisiting the album a decade later, Smith reflected on the journey they’ve been on since its release. They spoke about the mix of emotions they feel when performing these songs, likening it to looking back at old photographs. It’s a reminder of how far they’ve come and the experiences that have shaped them as an artist.
‘In the Lonely Hour’ was written during a period of unrequited love in Smith’s life, and the raw emotion of that time is evident in every track. The album’s themes of longing and heartache struck a chord with listeners, earning Smith numerous accolades, including Grammy, Brit, Golden Globe, and Oscar awards. Despite the pain that inspired the album, Smith has always expressed a deep love for performing these songs. They see it as a way to connect with their audience on a profound level, sharing their vulnerability and strength through music. The collaboration with Alicia Keys on ‘I’m Not the Only One’ adds a new chapter to this story, bringing fresh energy and perspective to the song.
The music video for ‘I’m Not the Only One’ is a celebration of friendship and love, featuring both emotional and joyful moments. It reflects the themes of the song, capturing the highs and lows of relationships. The footage from Smith’s Pride party adds a layer of inclusivity and acceptance, highlighting the importance of community and support. The presence of Lady Bunny and other notable figures from the LGBTQ+ community underscores this message, making the video a powerful statement of solidarity and pride. It’s a visual representation of the love and acceptance that Smith has always championed in their music.
The recording session for ‘I’m Not the Only One’ was a family affair, with Keys’ son Egypt playing some keys during the session and her other son Genesis providing comic relief with his jokes. This added to the intimate vibe of the session, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved. The video captures these moments, showing the genuine connection between the artists and their families. It’s a reminder that music is not just about the notes and lyrics, but also about the people and relationships that inspire it. The collaboration between Smith and Keys is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create lasting bonds.
The 10th anniversary edition of ‘In the Lonely Hour’ is a significant milestone for Sam Smith, marking a decade of growth and success in the music industry. Looking back on the album, Smith sees it as a real-life coming-of-age story, chronicling their journey of love and personal growth. The collaboration with Alicia Keys and the other artists on the reissue is a celebration of this journey, highlighting the connections and experiences that have shaped Smith’s career. It’s a reminder of the power of music to heal, inspire, and bring people together, even in the face of adversity.
Smith’s reflection on the album and its impact is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of music. ‘In the Lonely Hour’ was more than just a collection of songs; it was a deeply personal expression of Smith’s experiences and emotions. The album’s success opened doors for Smith, allowing them to share their story with the world and connect with listeners on a profound level. The reissue, with its new collaborations and unreleased tracks, is a celebration of this journey and a testament to Smith’s enduring talent and resilience. It’s a reminder that even in the face of heartbreak, there is always hope and the possibility of new beginnings.
The collaboration with Alicia Keys on ‘I’m Not the Only One’ is a highlight of the 10th anniversary edition of ‘In the Lonely Hour.’ Keys’ soulful piano playing and powerful vocals add a new dimension to the song, bringing fresh energy and emotion to the performance. The chemistry between Smith and Keys is evident in every note, creating a version of the song that is both haunting and beautiful. The music video, with its blend of live performance and footage from Smith’s Pride party, adds another layer of depth to the song, capturing the joy and connection that music can bring.
Fans of Sam Smith and Alicia Keys will undoubtedly be thrilled by this collaboration, which showcases the best of both artists. The 10th anniversary edition of ‘In the Lonely Hour’ is a celebration of Smith’s journey and the connections they’ve made along the way. It’s a reminder of the power of music to heal, inspire, and bring people together. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Smith’s music, this reissue is a must-have, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved album. The collaboration with Keys is a testament to the enduring appeal of Smith’s music and their ability to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.