Bridget Kelly , who is of a biracial background , was born on April 8 , 1986 , in New York City . She is a graduate of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan . In 2008 , she signed a record deal with Jay-Z 's Roc Nation . Kelly has regularly filled in for Alicia Keys , when performing the song " Empire State of Mind " with Jay-Z , including performances on the '' Friday Night with Jonathan Ross '' , as well as '' Later ... with Jools Holland '' show , the Coldplay , Viva la Vida tour , and the 9/11 memorial service . Kelly also performed with Jay Z during a performance at the MTV Europe Music Awards 2009 . She performed " Empire State of Mind " at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival as well as Bonnaroo Music Festival in summer 2010 , with Jay-Z . Kelly also performed " Empire State of Mind " with Jay-Z on Saturday Night Live on May 8 , 2010 , as well as Rock am Ring on June 4 and T in the Park on June 12 , 2010 . She subsequently performed with Jay-Z during " Empire State of Mind " at Peace & Love in Borlänge , Sweden . Also at Summer Sonic 2010 in Chiba , Japan in August 2010 at Chiba Marine Stadium . Also at Yankee Stadium , September 13 , 2010
9/11
September 11 attacks
Bridget Kelly