Her hits “If I Ain’t Got You” and “Empire State of Mind” are proof that Alicia Keys is a well‑respected Princess of Soul. She has long been a karaoke favorite, and her vocal prowess is something Filipinos love to embody every time we sing her songs.
Speaking of Filipino favorites, even on the “Your Face Sounds Familiar” stage, Alicia Keys has become a staple, with our talented ka‑Familiars taking on the challenge of transforming into the American singer‑songwriter, giving their own take to her songs.
Let’s look back at 4 unforgettable Alicia Keys transformations on “YFSF.
Sam Shoaf (YFSF Kids Season 1, 2017) - “If I Ain't Got You”
Alicia Keys graced the “YFSF” stage through Sam Shoaf, who delivered a stirring rendition of the iconic hit “If I Ain’t Got You.” Channeling his inner RnB balladeer, Sam belted the song with passion---while his proud parents watched him from the audience. Even after the performance, Sam greeted everyone as Alicia.
Judge Gary Valenciano pointed out that even older ka-Familiars often struggle to transform into the opposite gender, yet Sam delivered a convincing performance despite his young age. “You were a look-alike, a move-alike… dito [sa puso] nanggaling ‘yung performance mo,” he praised.
Judge Ogie Alcasid described Sam’s performance as “Sam (some) kind of wonderful.” He added, “You actually disappeared and you became Alicia Keys.” Meanwhile, Judge Sharon Cuneta observed that Sam truly embodies the character he transforms into, beyond mere impersonation. “Entertainment-wise, ang galing,” she remarked.
Sam placed 6th at the end of the season.
Krystal Brimner (YFSF Kids Season 2, 2018) - “Empire State of Mind”
With powerful vocals and by channeling Alicia’s iconic look, Krystal Brimner captivated everyone with her own take on the singer-songwriter, performing the hit “Empire State of Mind.” She even had the judges, ka-Familiars, and the audience singing along with her.
After Krystal’s performance, Judge Sharon Cuneta remarked, “You never fail to amaze me.” She noted that Krystal is among the best performers in the competition, often leaving her speechless, and added that her Alicia Keys stint is one of her favorites.
Judge Ogie Alcasid said that Krystal delivered a high-level performance. “Nakakatakot ka. Your vocals were outstanding,” he praised, commending her for executing the mentors’ tips before she performed. Meanwhile, Coach Nyoy Volante, aside from highlighting Krystal’s vocals, particularly noted that she looked like Alicia herself and applauded her.
Krystal placed 5th at the end of the season.
Denise Laurel (YFSF Season 2, 2015) - “Girl on Fire”
She was indeed a girl on fire as Denise Laurel performed the iconic “Girl on Fire,” as if Alicia herself were onstage. The judges were all smiles watching Denise, even singing along with her all throughout.
After Denise’s performance, Judge Sharon Cuneta praised her for having such beautiful vocals. “You have a beautiful voice… I love it because I can kind of feel a little bit of your heart,” she said, adding, “Your sexiness, like Alicia’s, was very swabe lang- -not trying hard at all.”
“There is incredible potential [with your voice],” said Judge Gary Valenciano, adding that Denise has an advantage with her facial features, making it easy for her to resemble the icon she’s assigned. “This girl is on fire, [and] that’s exactly what you are tonight.”
Meanwhile, what impressed guest judge Boy Abunda was Denise’s embodiment of Alicia’s strength as a singer. “’Yung empowerment nanggagaling sa loob, and that came out in your performance. That was a great impersonation,” he said.
Denise was hailed the grand winner of the season.
Dia Maté (YFSF Season 4, 2026) - “If I Ain't Got You”
She ain't Dia as she becomes Alicia Keys to perform “If I Ain't Got You.” Singing with live vocals and nailing Alicia's signature look, it was an intimate performance, yet Dia truly stood out, with everyone immersed in her as she sings.
Judge Gary Valenciano admitted that he liked Dia's version of the song. “May character, may dating na kakaiba.” He said, impressed by how Dia is good at playing keyboards and has exceptional talent in singing. “Meron kang pinatunayan sa aking tonight, I liked this version. Nagustuhan ko ‘yung kalidad, ‘yung dating, ‘yung style mo.” He said.
Alicia Keys was indeed one tough icon to transform into, as highlighted by guest judge Karla Estrada, yet Dia did amazing with her performance. Lastly, Coach Klarisse De Guzman mentioned that Dia gave a different take on the song and applauded her for her authenticity.
Truly, it was no easy feat to transform into a vocalist as powerful as Alicia Keys. But these ka‑Familiars didn’t just perform to impersonate her---they sang from the heart, just as Alicia does in every performance.
The spotlight doesn't end here! Catch more iconic performances on “Your Face Sounds Familiar" weeknights, 7:15PM on Kapamilya Channel, ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL) and iWant.