Alicia Keys is aware of the fact that there have been rumours in regards to her sexual orientation. According to FemaleFirst, the R&B star understands why some people would think she is a lesbian. At the beginning of her career she looked rather rough. The singer's sexual preference has been the object of speculation after the launch of her first album in 2001: Songs In A Minor. Keys is adamant that she is not gay, but knows her physical appearance may make people question that. She stated, "I was definitely rough around the edges. I look back at certain interviews and I'm like, 'Damn! Did I have to look that hard? Did I have to do my hair that way?' "I could see why people couldn't see the diamond in the rough. I didn't take it to heart. I know what I am. I know it's not true." | 
