Alicia Keys‘ bare face went viral during the 2016 VMA’s and apparently she’s gotten criticized for her decision to ditch the paint.

While I commend Keys on her decision to go au naturel, it’s certainly not for everyone… (i.e. me!)

Details below…

For the record, Keys has been make up free for a while now, as she first embarked on her ‘natural journey’ when a photographer for her new album asked if she could shoot her barefaced.

The songstress admits she felt empowered afterwards, stating:

I felt powerful because my initial intentions realized themselves. My desire to listen to myself, to tear down the walls I built over all those years, to be full of purpose, and to be myself! The universe was listening to those things I’d promised myself, or maybe I was just finally listening to the universe, but however it goes, that’s how this whole #nomakeup thing began. Once the photo I took with Paola came out as the artwork for my new song “In Common,” it was that truth that resonated with others who posted #nomakeup selfies in response to this real and raw me.
I hope to God it’s a revolution.

‘Cause I don’t want to cover up anymore. Not my face, not my mind, not my soul, not my thoughts, not my dreams, not my struggles, not my emotional growth. Nothing.

During the 2016 VMAs, Alicia embraced her natural beauty and went makeup-free once again.  While many criticized her choice, Keys hit the net to explain that her decision is her’s alone…

Alicia’s husband Swizz Beats also had her back, as he posted the following in support of his wife:

VIDEO: Swizz Beats Responds to Alicia Keys Critics

Major props to Alicia Keys for embracing her natural beauty.

What do you think of Alicia Keys decision to go ‘make-up free’?