The artist received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award during the 2025 Grammy Awards.
Alicia Keys made a powerful and poignant statement during her Grammys acceptance speech.
The artist was honored with the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award during the 2025 Grammys, and took a moment to speak out about the need for diverse voices.
“This is not the time to shut down the diversity of voices. We’ve seen on this stage talented, hardworking people from different backgrounds with different points of view, and it changes the game,” she said. “DEI is not a threat, it’s a gift.”
She continued, “And the more voices, the more powerful the sound. When destructive forces try to burn us down, we rise from the ashes like a phoenix and as you see tonight, music is the unstoppable language that connects us all. It’s so beautiful.”
Keys encouraged all to show up with compassion, empathy, “soul care” and to continue to open doors for others.
Keys’ comments come as President Donald Trump issued executive orders to put a stop to diversity, equity and inclusion programs. According to NBC News, federal employees have been working to follow orders prohibiting the support of DEI efforts within government agencies. That included a pause on all activities related to cultural awareness months and holidays such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Black History Month, Juneteenth, LGBTQ Pride Month, Holocaust Remembrance Day and other “special observances.”
Also in her speech, Keys said that she’s “always had to fight for a certain level of respect” as a songwriter, composer and “especially” as a producer. She said that it’s “strange” that people don’t think of women as producers like the late Quincy Jones, Dr. Dre or her husband, Swizz Beatz.
“But female producers have always powered the industry,” she said, calling out a few like Missy Elliott, Solange “and so many more.”
The 2025 Grammys were hosted by Trevor Noah. See all the biggest, best and unexpected moments, performances and winners in
At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Alicia Keys took the stage to deliver a heartfelt and powerful speech, urging the music industry to embrace diversity and inclusion. As a celebrated artist and advocate for social change, Keys emphasized the importance of amplifying underrepresented voices in the industry.
During her speech, Keys stated, “Now is the time to amplify diverse voices, not silence them. Music has always been a force for unity, and we must ensure that every artist, regardless of background, has a platform to be heard.” Her words resonated with the audience, drawing applause from fellow artists, industry professionals, and fans alike.
Keys highlighted the contributions of artists from different cultures and backgrounds, stressing that diversity in music leads to greater creativity and innovation. She also called for more opportunities for women and marginalized communities in the industry, advocating for fair representation across all platforms.
The speech came at a critical time when conversations around inclusivity and representation in the entertainment industry have gained momentum. Many artists and organizations have been pushing for systemic change, and Keys’ message further reinforced the urgency of the movement.
Social media was abuzz with reactions, with fans praising Keys for using her platform to advocate for meaningful change. Industry leaders also acknowledged the importance of her message, with many pledging to take actionable steps toward a more inclusive future.
With her inspiring words, Alicia Keys once again proved why she remains a powerful voice in music and beyond.
