Alicia Keys Slated to Perform at Saudi Arabian Grand Prix Alongside Pharrell Williams

Photo Credit: MDLBEAST

Alicia Keys is slated to perform at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix alongside Pharrell Williams on Saturday, March 9.

As part of the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024, Alicia Keys will perform on the Jeddah Corniche Circuit Main Stage — her first time performing in Jeddah, and the first time she’s performed in Saudi Arabia. Pharrell Williams will join her on stage for the concert on Saturday, March 9, with an accompanying “intimate conversation” on March 8.

In honor of International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8, Keys will host the third edition of her initiative called Women to Women. Hosted by MDLBEAST, the private event will take place in Jeddah during Grand Prix week. A gathering of influential and impactful female trailblazers, the event will involve a conversation about how women are pushing the culture forward in Saudi Arabia and worldwide.

“I am thrilled to be back on stage, this time in Jeddah, performing in a place I have never performed in before, and in a way I never have in this region,” says Keys.

“I’m also so inspired to connect in a meaningful way with the amazing women there to discuss cultural, creative, and boundary-pushing narratives we are collectively and individually leading. In light of International Women’s Day on March 8, it’s the perfect time to discuss important issues affecting us.”

As the music industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues an upward trajectory, several prominent artists have been less enthusiastic, accusing Saudi Arabia of using culture to deflect from its human rights abuses. Stars such as Nicki Minaj and Rod Stewart have been outspoken in their opposition to performing in the region, citing support of women’s rights and the LGBTQ+ community.Alicia Keys has won 16 Grammy Awards and sold over 90 million records. A classically trained pianist, she started composing songs at age 12 and secured a record deal at 15. Her 2001 debut album, Songs in A Minor, was a critical and commercial success, producing her first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 single “Fallin’.” An entrepreneur, activist, broadway producer, and New York Times best-selling author, Keys is also the founder of Keys Soulcare, a beauty and wellness company designed to uplift and inspire.