Alicia Keys admits she was rough

R&B superstar Alicia Keys has said she knows why people thought she was a lesbian at the beginning of her career - because she was "rough around the edges."

Keys’ sexuality became the subject of speculation after the release of her debut album songs in A minor in 2001.

However, the singer has been adamant she isn't a lesbian but has said that her appearance and attitude may have led people to think so.

"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?" The Sun quoted Keys as saying.

"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," she added.