Swizz Beatz says Michael Jackson had a crush on Alicia Keys

Swizz Beatz says he learned only after marrying Alicia Keys that Michael Jackson had a crush on her. Keys' husband told the story on The Real Report with Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda, in an episode detailed by Billboard. He said the news came via Jackson's sister, Janet Jackson.

According to Swizz Beatz, Janet told Keys directly that her brother had always had a crush on her. Swizz said he then organised a meeting so Keys and Jackson could spend time together as mutual fans. He wanted them to have a proper moment as admirers of each other's work.

That plan turned into a joint visit to Jackson's house in the period shortly before his death in 2009. Swizz said he and Keys went together. Jackson was at home with his children when they arrived, he said.

Swizz did not give an exact date for the visit in the account reported. He described it only as taking place shortly before Jackson died. During the visit, Jackson showed Keys dance moves he was preparing for his planned tour.

Swizz said Keys watched as Jackson walked through the steps. He told it as a relaxed meeting between fellow musicians, not a formal industry sit-down. The children were present for the visit, he said.

Swizz also recalled an unexpected offer inside the house. He said Jackson pointed to framed Thriller plaques sitting on the floor and propped against a wall. He said Jackson offered them to him. He said no.

He did not say why he declined the plaques in the account reported. He told the anecdote as a personal memory from the visit. The account, as reported, rests on his recollection of what Janet said and what happened at the house.

The story adds to a longer thread of public admiration between Keys and the Jackson family. In a separate interview from 2022, Janet Jackson said she had a crush on Keys, as reported by People. She said that if she were ever to enter a relationship with a woman, it would be with Keys.

For listeners, the pull is simple. Two well known musicians met briefly as fans, with family in the room and a tour in preparation. The plaques on the floor give the memory its odd, human edge.