Alicia Keys knows the significance of having a seat at “The Table” and is committed to helping others achieve their dreams. On Friday, June 28, the 16-time Grammy winner, 43, partnered with Mercedes-Benz to host The Table, an experiential culinary event in Los Angeles. The evening was designed to spotlight both emerging and established talents, celebrating the unique perspectives and ideas that fuel creativity and innovation.
The “Empire State of Mind” singer was accompanied by her husband, Swizz Beatz, and other celebrity guests, including Andra Day and Victoria Justice, at Verse LA for a four-course meal prepared by Chef Oscar Torres. During the dinner, attendees were introduced to Ayoni, a singer and songwriter mentored by Keys through her She Is the Music organization.
Alicia Keys spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about her work with the Barbados-born talent. “I am so proud of the work we do with She Is the Music. It has been such a wonderful experience to watch Ayoni grow into the artist she is today. She’s completely brilliant,” Keys told PEOPLE.
Keys, who joined Usher onstage earlier this year for the 2024 Super Bowl halftime performance, also discussed the importance of mentorship in helping artists develop their talents and grow. “I think mentorship is incredibly important, which is one of the key themes of The Table. Having someone who can give you advice and provide a different perspective can go a really long way,” she added.
As Ayoni performed a mix of new and unreleased songs, attendees enjoyed a meal that began with live Santa Barbara uni, followed by chicken pepián tetela. Torres’ staff then served lamb T-bone for the third course and cardamom flan for dessert, offering an “Angeleno cuisine” inspired by Torres’ Hispanic roots.
Just a short walk from Verse LA is Larrabee Studios, where a mixer was held ahead of the dinner. Manny Marroquin, an 18-time Grammy-winning mixer and owner of both venues, has collaborated with Keys on many of her music projects. Larrabee Studios is also where Keys recorded her 2012 hit single “Girl on Fire.”
The singer shares two children with Beatz — Egypt Daoud and Genesis Ali, along with Beatz’s three children from previous relationships, Prince Nasir, Kasseem Jr., and Nicole. At Friday’s event, Keys, who recently launched her own Broadway musical titled Hell’s Kitchen, shared how she selects the perfect ride for her blended family.
“Picking my favorite rides from Mercedes-Benz is difficult when there are so many amazing models to choose from,” she told PEOPLE, adding that the all-electric Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV and the Mercedes-AMG G 63 are her current favorites. “My kids love the futuristic technology, especially the pillar-to-pillar MBUX Hyperscreen, and everyone also loves the front and rear seat massage functions,” she said of the Maybach, which she described as the “pinnacle of luxury.”
The event underscored the importance of mentorship, a theme that resonates deeply with Keys. Her commitment to nurturing new talent through She Is the Music is a testament to her belief in the power of guidance and support. By providing a platform for artists like Ayoni, Keys is not only helping them grow but also enriching the cultural landscape with fresh, innovative voices.
The Table event was more than just a culinary experience; it was a celebration of creativity, mentorship, and the transformative power of support. Keys’ involvement with Mercedes-Benz in hosting this event highlights her dedication to fostering a community where emerging talents can thrive. Her efforts in mentoring artists and her passion for innovation are paving the way for the next generation of creatives.
In a world where the path to success can often be challenging, having a mentor like Alicia Keys can make all the difference. Her work with She Is the Music and events like The Table are shining examples of how mentorship can inspire and elevate new talent, ensuring that the arts continue to evolve and flourish.
Source: PEOPLE
