Alicia Keys is readying her third record since the 2002 outstanding Songs In A Minor debut. The album, which sold about 400 million, was one of the biggest debuts by a new artist. A year later The Diary Of Alicia Keys saw an album that was critically and commercially well received. So, here we are in 2007 and AK is back with As I Am, a record that sees the 25 year-old collaborate with long-term partner Kerry �Krucial� Keys, John Mayer and renowned songwriter Linda Perry. Ahead of the album�s November release, Alicia flew into London last night for an album playback and surprise performance at Portman Square�s Home House.

Previewing five new tracks, Alicia shared her excitement with the gathered press, before jumping on the old Joanna and playing the hell out of her new tunes. �Before, I felt the need to prove myself, being young and being a woman. This time I wanted to be free,� she said of new tracks like Superwoman, Thing About Love and Teenage Love Affair. �I went into the studio with no idea what would happen. That created the best music I�ve written in my whole life so far.�

After a �rollercoaster� year, Alicia admitted this album ended up being somewhat of a lifesaver. �If I could tell you about this past year, we�d be here all night,� she laughed. �Trust me, I needed this music more than it needed me. But all that led me to this. I feel it in my bones that this music, this time, it�s all the right path.�