Broadway enthusiasts and music lovers were in for a treat at the 2024 Tony Awards when Alicia Keys and Jay-Z delivered a surprise performance that left the audience at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater in awe. The duo took the stage to perform their iconic 2009 hit “Empire State of Mind,” a song that has become synonymous with New York City.
The performance was part of a medley from the musical “Hell’s Kitchen,” which is inspired by Alicia Keys’ life and features her extensive discography. The musical, which opened on Broadway in April, has been a significant hit, earning 13 Tony nominations, including Best Musical. The cast of “Hell’s Kitchen” began the number, and the excitement in the room was palpable as Keys joined them on stage.
Dressed in a stylish black two-piece outfit with an oversized Gucci coat and gold jewelry, Keys captivated the audience. She encouraged everyone to raise their hands and feel the energy of New York City. “Are we in New York City at the Tony Awards?” she exclaimed, setting the stage for what was to come.
The real surprise came when Jay-Z, clad in a Louis Vuitton jacket and a backward cap, walked out to perform his part of the rap. The crowd erupted in cheers as the two artists brought the house down with their electrifying performance. “Brooklyn, New York City in the Tonys, tonight,” Jay-Z quipped, adding to the night’s excitement.
The performance was a highlight of the evening and quickly became a trending topic on social media. Fans and celebrities alike took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their delight. Adam Sternbergh, opinion culture editor at the New York Times, tweeted, “Alicia Keys and Jay Z singing ‘Empire State of Mind’ at the Tonys at Lincoln Center is hands-down better than anything that’s happened at the Oscars in 10 years.” Another user, Maxwell Haddad, noted, “Jay Z at the Tonys is wild. HK just sold a ton of tickets. That’s a win for them no matter what else happens.”
The Tony Awards, hosted by Ariana DeBose for the third time, featured several other memorable performances. The cast of “The Who’s Tommy,” with original rock band member Pete Townshend on guitar, also took the stage, adding to the night’s musical extravaganza. DeBose’s hosting received mixed reactions online, with some praising her earnestness and others critiquing the energy of her opening numbers.
“Hell’s Kitchen” has been a labor of love for Alicia Keys, who has been deeply involved in its creation. The musical features some of her biggest hits, including “No One,” “Fallin’,” and “Girl on Fire,” alongside new songs she wrote specifically for the show. Keys has been vocal about her excitement and gratitude for the show’s success. “I’ve been freaking out. It’s incredible [and] I’m so grateful,” she said during an appearance on “Today With Hoda and Jenna.”
The musical’s cast includes Tony nominees Shoshana Bean, Brandon Victor Dixon, Kecia Lewis, and Maleah Joi Moon, who plays Ali, a character modeled after Keys. The ensemble also features a talented group of performers who bring the story of Keys’ upbringing in New York City to life.
Keys has emphasized the importance of making Broadway accessible to a diverse audience. “One of the goals of ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ was to really open the door to those who have never stepped foot in a Broadway theater ever before,” she explained. “I see so many different people in so many different walks of life. I love that so much and that’s really important.”
The Tony Awards ceremony, which aired live on CBS and Paramount+, was a night to remember, filled with heartfelt speeches, standing ovations, and unforgettable performances. The surprise duet by Alicia Keys and Jay-Z was undoubtedly the highlight, showcasing the magic of live theater and the power of music to bring people together.
As the night came to a close, the celebration continued at the Carlyle Hotel, where Broadway stars and celebrities mingled and toasted to a successful evening. The energy and excitement of the Tony Awards were palpable, and the surprise performance by Keys and Jay-Z will be remembered as one of the most iconic moments in the event’s history.
