"I promised myself that I'd never actually admit to listening to New Kids on the Block"

This quote by Alicia Keys is a funny way of expressing her admiration for the boy band New Kids on the Block. She is implying that she is a fan of the group, however is too ashamed to admit it openly. This could be since she is a successful artist and doesn't wish to be related to a young boy band. It could likewise be because she is a grown lady and doesn't wish to be viewed as a fan of a group that is mostly focused on teenage ladies. Whatever the factor, this quote shows that Alicia Keys has a terrific sense of humor and is not afraid to poke fun at herself. It also shows that she has an excellent gratitude for the music of New Kids on the Block, even if she won't admit it.