Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys is currently appearing on MTV’s “Fresh Takes,” a new micro series created by Dove ‘Go Fresh’ aimed at giving young women in their twenties a fresh take on life. Keys stars as Alex, a public relations executive at a trendy music PR firm in the meatpacking district who is struggling with the pressures of being a young woman in today’s world. Fresh Takes, which recently aired it’s third episode “Who’s Your Mama” featuring a guest appearance from Lynn Whitfield (“Madea’s Family Reunion,” “Mama I Want To Sing”) can be seen during MTV’s hit series “The Hills”. Throughout the series Keys and her two friends Diane and Lizzie are followed as they attempt to balance career, relationships, beauty, family and friends. In this weeks episode, Alex’s mom, Nadine (Whitfield), comes for a visit. Alex (Keys), who expected the motherly smothering that she has come accustomed, got a wake up call when her mother made plans to meet up with old friends she met on Facebook. In a relatable scenario to many twenty-something and teens today who find mom or dad on their favorite social networking site, Alex realizes that her mom has a life too and that everyone should be allowed to change....even if mom is getting more action than you on Facebook! “I am so excited to be starring in ‘Fresh Takes’ created by Dove go fresh because it puts the pressures that I deal with every day in a new light and opens my eyes to the reality that I can be successful in many different ways and have every reason to feel beautiful right now,” says Keys. “I hope the series inspires other 20-somethings to get a fresh take on the pressures in their lives and start enjoying the ride.” Up and coming actresses Desi Lydic and Jessalyn Wanlim star in “Fresh Takes” with Alicia Keys. Catch new episodes on MTV, Monday’s at 10pm ET and previous episodes online at www.youtube.com/user/freshtakes.  In related news, Alicia Keys’ documentary “Alicia In Africa: Journey to the Motherland” has been made available online. The documentary, directed by South African filmmaker Earle Sebastian follows the Grammy Award winning artist on a month-long trip to Africa visiting communities affected by HIV and AIDS. During the trip Keys and other members of her party meet inspiring children and families in South Africa, Kenya and Uganda. "Everyone who visits Africa is changed by the experience, but not everyone can afford to go to Africa," Alicia explained. "Come with me on my journey and learn as I learn. Let's start a virus to stop a virus- send the film to everyone you know. Let's change this nightmare into our generation's greatest success story." The entire documentary can be seen at www.aliciainafrica.com , a portion of the film will also air on tonight on “American Idol: Idol Gives Back” (7:30pm ET)