This week on Country Rap Tunes Podcast, Cory Mo & Kimberly Jones talk to the Legend himself Jazze Pha. They talk about his younger years growing up in the music industry. Working with R Kelly, Aaliyah, Missy Elliot, Ciara, UGK, Biggie, 2 Pac, Michael Jackson and much more. Jevon Dewand of the “Trap Stars” also joined in to talk about his new project ventures & how to live life the right way. This episode will inspire you to be motivated at what ever it is that you do in life. Ep. 1 Season 2.
Alexandra Shipp’s rise to prominence in Hollywood shows her unwavering dedication to her craft. With a net worth estimated at $3 million in 2024, according to Net Worth Post, Shipp has captivated audiences with her dynamic performances and used her platform to champion diversity and representation within the industry. Her journey from early television roles to becoming a sought-after actress in blockbuster films highlights her remarkable evolution and her significant impact on and off the screen.
A Promising Beginning: From Small Roles To Stardom
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 10: (L-R) Alexandra Shipp, Andrew Garfield and. Vanessa Hudgens attend Netflix’s tick, tick…BOOM! World Premiere on November 10, 2021 at. The Hollywood Roosevelt also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Netflix)
Alexandra Shipp’s foray into acting started with roles in television and minor appearances in films. It laid the groundwork for her future success. Her breakthrough role as Aaliyah in the Lifetime biopic Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B further catapulted her into the spotlight despite the film’s mixed reviews. This pivotal moment also showcased her ability to embody complex characters and paved the way for more substantial opportunities. Her commitment to refining her craft in the face of criticism was instrumental in her journey toward becoming a leading actress in Hollywood.
Breakout Roles & Critical Acclaim
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 08: Michelle Hurd (L) and Alexandra Shipp join the. United We Trek picket line outside Paramount Studios on September 08, 2023 also in Los Angeles, California. Members of SAG-AFTRA and WGA (Writers Guild of America) have both walked out in their first joint strike against the studios since 1960. The strike has shut down a majority of. Hollywood productions with writers in the fourth month of their strike against the. Hollywood studios. (Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images)
The role of Storm in the X-Men franchise marked a significant milestone in Shipp’s career, bringing her international recognition and acclaim. Her portrayal of the iconic character demonstrated her talent and ability to bring depth and nuance to well-established roles. Beyond the X-Men series, Shipp has continued to diversify her portfolio with roles in films like Love, Simon and Shaft, showcasing her range as an actress and her dedication to taking on challenging and varied roles. Her performances have garnered critical acclaim and contributed to her growing influence in the entertainment industry.
Further, Alexandra Shipp has emerged as a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Her commitment to this cause is evident in her choice of roles and her public statements, which often highlight the need for greater representation and equity within the industry. Shipp’s activism extends beyond her filmography; she actively participates in discussions and initiatives to break down barriers for underrepresented groups in entertainment. Her efforts to effect change and inspire others underscore her role as not just an actress but a catalyst for progress in Hollywood.
Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors & Continued Impact
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – JUNE 13: (L-R) Max Mara Vice President US Retail and Global Brand Ambassador Maria Giulia Maramotti, honoree. Alexandra Shipp and Regina Hall pose with The Women In Film Max Mara Face of the. Future Award during the Women In Film 2018 Crystal + Lucy Awards presented by Max Mara, Lancôme and. Lexus at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on June 13, 2018 also in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Women In Film)
Her future projects and initiatives are highly anticipated as Alexandra Shipp continues to evolve as an actress and advocate. Her journey from early roles to her current status as a prominent figure in Hollywood reflects her personal growth and her impact on the industry. Shipp’s dedication to her craft and advocacy for diversity and inclusion promises to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers. Her story is one of perseverance, talent, and a deep commitment to making a difference on-screen and in the broader cultural landscape.
Her life may have been cut short that fateful day in 2001, but Aaliyah’s legacy lives on. Each year, fans commemorate milestones in the R&B singer’s life, and today marks what would have been her 45th birthday. The music industry may have shifted since the days Aaliyah’s tunes were topping the charts, but her impact continues to ripple throughout the music industry. We often find ourselves reflecting on her reign in entertainment and the profound legacy birthed through her departure. Today, we fondly remember Aaliyah through her art and the images etched in our memories of her life and career.
In the late summer of 2001, the world stood still as news broke of Aaliyah’s tragic passing. A plane crash in the Bahamas claimed not just a rising star but an artist who had already imprinted her soulful essence in music and culture. This marked a new beginning of a legacy that refuses to dim, even as years turn into decades. Further, Aaliyah’s sudden absence was felt in the inspiration she seeded in countless artists following in her footsteps. From the fluidity of her dance moves to the haunting sweetness of her voice, she had crafted a style so distinct that it became a guiding light for emerging talents.
Born in the heart of Brooklyn in 1979, Aaliyah would journey to the global stage only after her family moved and settled in Detroit. She was exposed to the entertainment industry early on, landing her first big break at only ten years old. It was then that a young Aaliyah would give a glimpse of her talents while performing on Star Search—although she didn’t take home the grand prize. Still, her drive to become a star was unwavering, and in 1994, the world received her debut, Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number.
The 1994 release of Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number marked a seismic shift in R&B. Barely into her teens, Aaliyah’s voice resonated with a surprising depth, weaving through the album’s sophisticated and creative production. The sound fused R&B grooves and forward-thinking musical innovation, announcing the arrival of a new era in the genre.
This period also saw the unfolding of the singer’s much-discussed association with disgraced R&B heavyweight R. Kelly. This controversial chapter was instrumental in shaping her journey towards becoming a self-reliant and empowered artist. Aaliyah soon began to define her own space in music, as her maturing sound reflected a new vision as a young woman with a shifting perspective.
As Aaliyah transitioned into the mid-’90s, her artistic voyage took a decisive turn. One in a Million‘s arrival in 1996 was pivotal in her career. The now-classic album was pouring over with Timbaland and Missy Elliott productions, showing Aaliyah’s evolution into a bold new direction. The collaborators’ approach resounded with a generation hungry for something that defied the norm.
As she was shaking up the music scene, Aaliyah was also emerging as a movie star. A role in Romeo Must Die had fans anticipating her next blockbuster, which would arrive in Queen of the Damned. Sadly, this would be a posthumous release, as Aaliyah passed away a year before the film went to theaters.
UNITED STATES – JANUARY 01: Photo of Damon DASH and AALIYAH; with Damon Dash (Photo by George De Sota (ID 5073478)/Redferns)
This walk down memory lane is more than a superficial look at Aaliyah’s biography. It’s a reminder of an era that saw a young woman take a chance with burgeoning producers who also challenged the status quo. Since the singer’s death, those who knew her share fond memories of happier times as young hopefuls with stars in their eyes. Take a look at a few moments in Baby Girl’s life and career below, a celebrate a star who’s light was dimmed far too soon.
Aaliyah at ‘The Tonight Show with Jay Leno’ at the NBC Studios in Burbank, Ca. 7/25/01. Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images.Aaliyah and Halle Berry during 2000 MTV Movie Awards at Sony Studios in Culver City, California, United States. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)
Jet Li & Aaliyah at the Mann Village Theatre in Westwood, California (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)Aaliyah at the Teen Choice awards 2000. Singer/actress died in a plane crash in the Bahamas on Saturday evening August 25, 2001. She had been in the Bahamas for a video shoot and was returning to Miami with eight others when the Cessna they were in crashed shortly after take-off. All nine people on board died. (Photo by Frank Trapper/Corbis via Getty Images)Busta Rhymes, Aaliyah, Pink, Stevie Wonder, Mya & Tyrese (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)Jay-Z, Aaliyah, Bijou Phillips and Kidada Jones at the Bar North in Los Angeles, California (Photo by Jeff Vespa/WireImage)
E367235 Aaliyah (as Trish O”Day) stars in “Romeo Must Die.” Photo credit: Kharen Hill 2000 Warner Bros.American singer and actress Aaliyah (1979-2001) and American boyband Immature (Marques Houston, Jerome Jones and Kelton Kessee) attend a press conference as Lifebeat’s Counter AID announces its third annual fund-raiser, in Los Angeles, California, November 1994. The Counter AID project raises money for people living with HIV and AIDS. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)Rapper Twista (Carl Terrell Mitchell) poses for photos backstage with singers Aaliyah (Aaliyah Dana Haughton) and Brandy (Brandy Rayana Norwood) after their performances during the Big Beat/Atlantic Records showcase at the Impact Music Convention at the Fontainebleau Hilton Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida in April 1997. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)Portrait of, from left, American rapper Sean Combs, singer & actress Aaliyah (born Aaliyah Haughton, 1979 – 2001), and rapper the Notorious BIG (born Christopher Wallace, 1972 – 1997) as they pose together during the ‘HOT Nite Jamaica’ event, sponsored by WQHT radio (‘HOT97’), Negril, Jamaica, December 1994. (Photo by Nitro/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 14: (L-R) China Chow, Gwen Stefani, Kidada Jones, Aaliyah and Rashida Jones attend The Fifth Annual Race to Erase MS at the Century Plaza Hotel on November 14, 1997 in New York City. (Photo by Patrick McMullan/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)Aaliyah during Aaliyah made a person apperance at Virgin Megastore in London. at Virgin Megastore in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Fred Duval/FilmMagic)
In the year 2023, pop culture witnessed some of its most unforgettable moments, thanks to the creative genius of one woman: Fatima Robinson. From curating mesmerizing performances in music and film with artists such asAaliyah, the late King of Pop, and more–Robinson’s impact on hip-hop culture cannot be overstated.
30 Years Of Non-Stop Talent
Throughout her illustrious 30-year career, Fatima Robinson has choreographed unforgettable dance routines for renowned musicians such as Aaliyah, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and more.
From Aaliyah and Beyoncé to ‘Save the Last Dance’ to ‘The Color Purple,’ Fatima Robinson takes us through 30 years of her most iconic dance moments. https://t.co/idAEcKoobM
From Aaliyah’s unforgettable videos like “Rock The Boat” and “Are You That Somebody” to Michael Jackson’s 90s classic “Remember The Time” and working as the Director of Choreography for Beyoncé’s groundbreaking Renaissance World Tour, Robinson’s influence is evident. Her ability to curate a variety of dance styles has left an indelible mark on some of the most iconic music videos in R&B and hip-hop culture.
It’s worth mentioning that this isn’t Robinson’s first collaboration with the “CUFF IT” singer. She was also involved in the singer’s performance at the 2022 Oscars alongside Blue Ivy, where they performed “Be Alive.”
Dancing In Hollywood
Robinson’s talents extend beyond music. Her involvement in other notable films, including Dreamgirls and Save the Last Dance, further cements her status as a creative force in the entertainment industry.
More notably, Robinson takes part in The Color Purple, which is marked as the second-biggest release of a Christmas Day film. According to Entertainment Weekly, it’s a project she holds “dear” to her as she stated:
“Out of my 34 years of choreographing and dancing, I watched this movie and for the first time I didn’t critque it. I didn’t feel like, ‘Oh I wish I would’ve done that. Oh, I should have moved that over there. A lot of times I’m very critical of my work and this is the first time where I finally said, ‘That is a masterpiece.’’
Remembered for her work with a recent role as the choreographer for the acclaimed film The Color Purple, many fans have granted Robinson her flowers. As @DollarBeKnowing expressed, “A Fatima Robinson documentary needs to happen. Sooner rather than later. Thank you in advance.” @She_DreadzMe praised Robinson’s recent work in “The Color Purple,” stating, “Give her flowers because this woman went from ‘Remember The Time’ to ‘Are You That Somebody’ to the ‘Renaissance Tour’ to TCP.”
Queen Latifah’s Impact On Hip-Hop
While Fatima Robinson’s impact on the culture is undeniable, she is not the only Black figure who has left a significant mark. Queen Latifah, a hidden influencer in hip-hop culture, shares a similar role in shaping the industry’s landscape, just like Robinson.
Aaliyah, the celebrated R&B star who tragically passed away in a plane crash over two decades ago, is at the center of a new conversation. Started by her fans, they demand that her death case be revisited.
R.I.P. Aaliyah
Known as the Princess of R&B, Aaliyah has consistently remained a trending topic. Nevertheless, while filming a music video for one of her hit songs, “Rock The Boat,” the talented artist tragically passed away at the young age of 22 in a plane crash in the Bahamas on August 25, 2001.
In the collective memory of her fans, Aaliyah’s death remains fraught with doubts and questions even twenty-two years later.
Many supporters find the circumstances surrounding her death to be “fishy” and “shady.” Recently, a social media user named @stopfeenin ignited the conversation, writing:
“They need to revisit Aaliyah’s death case again— since everyone’s tea is resurfacing. Aaliyahs uncle Barry needs to be re-investigated for receiving 90 million from her death. Word around curb was she was allegedly about to leave his label once the album dropped. But he signed a liability agreement on 8/20/2001 (five months before her passing), saying that if anything bad were to happen to Aaliyah that Blackground wouldn’t be held responsible.”
‘Am I Supposed To Say That On TV?’
Allegedly, in a release of liability agreement purportedly signed days before Aaliyah’s death, the August 20, 2001 agreement stipulated,
“That instinct shall be responsible and shall assume liability for any and all loss or damage in connection with the production of the Video excerpt to the extent arising out of Artist’s [Aaliyah’s] and/or company’s [Blackground’s] negligence or willful misconduct.”
According to purported sources, an associate of Barry Hankerson named Ayatollah Marv alleged in an interview with Cam CaponeNews that Barry received a staggering $90 million after Aaliyah’s tragic death. He stated:
“Barry, when Aaliyah died, he got paid 90 million dollars for her death. Am I supposed to say that on TV?”
Damon Dash Speaks
Another contentious claim emerged from the late songstress’ former boyfriend, Damon Dash, who alleged that a plane meant for Aaliyah and her team’s return from the Bahamas was taken by director Hype Williams, who was also responsible for her last music video, “Rock the Boat.”
Dash revealed to Entertainment Tonight that Aaliyah had expressed discomfort with the plane, saying:
“She [Aaliyah] said I don’t like this plane. And I was like well don’t get on it. And she was like well I got to because I got work to do. She got on the plane and she had a very serious fear of planes in general. So she had to overcome a fear to get on that plane.” Dame continued, “But what I was really more tight about was that I heard that Lenny Kravitz had offered her a jet and then Hype took the jet.”
Fans Rally For Aaliyah
As fans delve deeper into Aaliyah’s death, their frustration and mistrust intensify. Social media platforms have become a space for these emotions to unravel. One fan stated, “I’ve always said it, Barry Hankerson is a money-hungry devil… Truly a sick man.” Another fan @mistamonotone wrote, “At this point, I’m willing to believe damn near anything about the music business. What a cesspool of nefarious, greedy, and narcissistic (mostly) men. With that said, I hope Aaliyah’s death was truly an accident.”
Fans have also resurfaced a video clip of Aaliyah’s alleged former bodyguard from the years between 2000 and 2001. The bodyguard stated in the clip, “They killed her!”
Following the release of the clip one fan named @k.orocky stated, “I believe it & then kept her music off of so many platforms for a long time. It was like they were trying to diminish her legacy,” referring to the moment when Aaliyah’s music became accessible on streaming platforms in 2021 after a hiatus of two decades.
Crunchy Black Calls Out Gangsta Boo’s Brother
In the quest for truth and justice, fans’ calls for answers extend beyond Aaliyah’s case. The recent passing of Gangsta Boo, a member of Three Six Mafia, has sparked similar demands for clarity. Crunchy Black, another member of the group, has alleged that her death was not an accident and openly implicates her brother in the matter.
Many fan-favorite tunes are covers of earlier melodies created by pioneers that may have been unknown by some fans. Some include top hits sung by chart-topping artists such as Aaliyah, Beyoncé, Salt-N-Pepa, and more.
Beyoncé – ‘If I Were A Boy’
Queen Bey surprised fans with her 2008 hit “If I Were A Boy,” a cover of BC Jean and Toby Gad’s song. This rendition reached No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and garnered multi-platinum certifications in various countries.
Salt- N- Pepa’s ‘Whatta Man’
Salt N Pepa’s timeless hit “Whatta Man” was a cover of Linda Lyndell’s 1968 original. The duo’s version reached impressive positions on the Billboard Hot 100, the UK Singles Chart, and the UK Dance Singles Chart.
Aaliyah’s ‘At Your Best’
Aaliyah’s 1994 hit “At Your Best” was a beautiful rendition of The Isley Brothers’ 1976 smash hit “At Your Best (You Are Love).” The single spent weeks on the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 3 in September 1994.
Destiny’s Child – ‘Emotion’
Destiny’s Child, the iconic girl group, also tried their hand at covering songs. In 2002, they released their version of Samantha Sang’s 1978 hit, “Emotion,” which became a top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Lauryn Hill’s ‘Killin’ Me Softly’
Lauryn Hill captivated audiences in 1996 with her rendition of Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly.” This cover topped the Mainstream Top 40 chart, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You”
Whitney Houston’s 1992 rendition of “I Will Always Love You” is considered a classic.
However, not many people know that the original belongs to Dolly Parton. Houston’s emotional tribute to Bobby Brown took the song to new heights.
Aretha Franklin’s “Respect”
Aretha Franklin’s iconic anthem “Respect” won her a Grammy and became a major feminist anthem. But it was originally written, and performed by the late music great Otis Redding in 1965.
These surprising covers remind us of the innovation and creativity that artists bring to their craft. While making a song, they pay homage to the original creators and introduce these timeless melodies to a new generation of listeners.
What’s The Problem?
In the world of hip-hop, sampling has been a long-standing tradition.
However, there are concerns about the overuse of sampling by newer artists, which some argue leads to a lack of originality in the genre. Hip-hop fans are divided on the issue, with some appreciating the homage paid to older tracks, while others feel it stifles the growth and creativity of the genre.
Goodie Mob Gets Real
Sampling has been a prominent element of hip-hop, and artists like Goodie Mob have witnessed its impact. In an exclusive interview with SOHH, members of Goodie Mob discussed their perspectives on hip-hop sampling, the state of the modern hip-hop world, and the influence of Drake’s success.
For most of the social media age, the Kardashian-Jenner family has heavily dictated North American style trends. Of course, Kim is the sister who has long been making major moves in fashion, beauty, and beyond. Still, each of her siblings has also made a name for themselves in their own right. Now that everyone except Kendall has at least one child, we’re beginning to see who among the little ones is the most creative. North West is obviously at the top of the list due to her pursuits on TikTok, but a few of her cousins recently paid homage to Aaliyah, earning them praise on IG.
On Friday (October 13) morning, Khloe Kardashian posted a new series of photos showing her firstborn, True Thompson, posing with little brother Rob’s daughter, Dream Kardashian. Because of their matching backpacks, our guess is that the duo was getting ready for a big day at school when the Good American founder took the snaps. As many have pointed out in the comments, both girls seem to be growing up overnight, with True already taking after both her mom and dad in terms of her height.
It’s unclear if the girls are actually big fans of Aaliyah’s music, or if their parents simply thought the opportunity to match was cute. Regardless, both Dream and True had big smiles on their faces before heading off for another day of fun and learning with their friends.
While August marked 22 years since Aaliyah’s tragic death, her name continues to appear in the headlines all this time later. Earlier this week, it was LeBron James that got people reminiscing on the R&B icon after it was revealed that she inspired his high school football career. Read more about that at the link below, and check back later for more music/pop culture news. RIP.
At this year’s 2023 VMAs, Colombian artist Shakira was honored with the Video Vanguard Award. While many fans applauded the decision, others felt MTV missed an opportunity to pay tribute to hip-hop’s 50th anniversary by not honoring a hip-hop artist for the award. SOHH, here’s a compiled list of hip-hop artists who could have been […]
On August 25, SOHH reflects on the untimely passing of Aaliyah, the musical powerhouse who left an everlasting imprint on the world. The influential singer passed away when she was 22, along with eight other team members, on this fateful day in 2001. SOHH intends to provide lesser-known facts about the singer that may have […]
Virginia’s own Magoo may be gone, but his legacy is a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation that define the music world. Through collaborations, experimentation, and his role in shaping musical alliances, he solidified his place in the pantheon of hip-hop legends.SOHH, here’s a tribute to the late great Magoo. A Hip-Hop Mastermind Magoo’s […]
