Apple Inc. has officially kicked off its 50th anniversary celebrations with a special live performance by Alicia Keys at Apple Grand Central in New York.
Marking five decades since its founding, April 1 stands as a milestone moment for Apple, a company widely recognized for shaping global culture through innovation in technology, creativity, and connectivity. To commemorate the occasion, the tech giant hosted an exclusive event that brought together fans, creatives, and industry figures in one of its most iconic retail spaces.
Performing before a packed audience, the 17-time Grammy Award–winning singer delivered a captivating 40-minute set featuring some of her most beloved hits. Accompanied by a live ensemble of strings, guitar, and bass, Alicia Keys performed from the store’s signature elevated steps, offering a striking view over the Main Concourse of Grand Central Terminal.
The event was hosted by Ebro Darden, a prominent Apple Music radio personality, who welcomed guests and highlighted the significance of Apple’s 50-year journey.
Apple and Alicia Keys share a longstanding creative relationship rooted in innovation and artistic expression. Over the years, she has been featured across multiple Apple platforms and initiatives, including performances at the iTunes Festival in 2012 and 2016, and her appearance in the global “Behind the Mac” campaign in 2020. In 2022, she became one of the first artists to release her catalog in Spatial Audio on Apple Music, and also headlined a standout installment of Apple Music Live.
More recently, in 2024, her project Alicia Keys: Rehearsal Room debuted as one of the first immersive experiences for Apple Vision Pro, offering fans an intimate look into her creative process.
The anniversary launch event not only celebrated Apple’s legacy but also underscored its continued commitment to bridging technology and the arts through meaningful collaborations with global creatives.
