Alicia Keys expressed concern that Rihanna is not surrounding herself with the right people, Essence reported Wednesday.

Keys offered her commentary on the 25-year old to London Evening Standard which was published June 14. She complimented the pop star for her success in the music industry.  Rihanna has released seven albums in seven years and was just named the most viewed artist on Youtube. She also has 11 #1 singles on Hot 100.

"I'm proud of Rihanna," she said. "Because it's not easy to stand up in this crazy world and make it and keep going and try new things. And find your way through it."

However, the Fallin' songstress said she worried about the younger singers becoming prey to the downside of fame.

"It's such a tricky, crazy business, and when people are a little bit younger than me, I'm always hoping that their soul is good 'cause it can be such a soulless space," Keys said.

Keys wondered if the Diamonds singer had those in her inner circle who worried about more than just chart success. The 32-year-old cautioned that there were many who would surround a star when there was something in it for them, particularly money. She did not want to see Rihanna exploited in a similar manner.

"They just want to make sure you can stand so you can go to work. So naturally I am always thinking about people and hoping that in this very soulless place they can find completion," the musician said.

Keys said that despite not knowing Rihanna personally, she wished her well. She hoped that Rihanna's management, Roc Nation, would provide all the support the pop singer needed. Keys also yearned for Rihanna to have the space to speak up for herself.

"I don't know her personally like that. But I do know there's a lot of good people at Roc Nation and I do think that as we all get older, you start to be able to say, 'No, I'm not gonna take that from you any more,'" Keys said.

Tags: Alicia Keys Rihanna