Sunday night, the Summer Sonic Festival crowd was treated to an unforgettable performance by 17-time GRAMMY® Award-winning superstar Alicia Keys, who returned to Japan for the first time in over a decade.
Keys headlined the Tokyo leg of the festival on August 17, following a show in Osaka the night before. Her set combined powerhouse vocals, signature piano ballads, and high-energy collaborations with some of Japan’s brightest stars.
In a show-stopping moment, Keys was joined on stage by AWich, Nene, Lana, and AI for the fiery anthem “Bad B!”. Later, she performed “Happiness” alongside AI, which seamlessly transitioned into one of her most beloved hits, “No One,” sending the packed Tokyo crowd into a euphoric singalong.
The performances mark Keys’ long-awaited return to Japan — her last appearance in the country was 12 years ago. Fans welcomed her back with roaring cheers, proving that her connection with Japanese audiences has only grown stronger with time.
Alongside her festival appearances, Keys is set to play an intimate solo headline show at Tokyo’s International Forum Hall on August 19, giving fans another rare chance to see the global superstar up close.
Summer Sonic 2024 has boasted a stacked lineup of international and local talent, but Keys’ return has been one of the most talked-about highlights. With her mix of timeless hits, soulful stage presence, and cross-cultural collaborations, Alicia Keys reminded fans in Tokyo and Osaka why she remains one of music’s most enduring icons.
Author: Andrew Braithwaite
Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He’s also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.
AloJapan.com