aaliyah

Aaliyah’s Debut “Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number” Turns 29

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Twenty-nine years have passed since the music world first heard the soulful voice of Aaliyah on her debut album, Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number. This year, we revisit the body of work that ignited her career. It’s important to reflect on the transformative effect Aaliyah had on pop culture, despite her untimely death. The late star found her love for music and performance at a tender age. Her journey began in Detroit, Michigan, where she attended the Detroit School of Performing Arts, honing her talents as a youth. Aaliyah’s debut album, released when she was just 15, showcased a maturity and sophistication that belied her years, giving us a glimpse of the superstar she was to become.

Aaliyah’s overall success was partly due to the unique collaborative relationships Aaliyah formed, particularly with music producers Timbaland and Missy Elliott. However, before that partnership, Aaliyah worked with R. Kelly. Her team, and parents, believed that collaborating with the Chicago singer would propel her career to new heights. It was a pairing that would prove to be lucrative musically and scandalous personally. Kelly’s relationship with the young Aaliyah was controversial, as rumors swirled about their closeness during production.

Aaliyah Makes Her Official Debut

Aaliyah (Photo by RJ Capak/WireImage)

Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number arrived on May 24, 1994. Although Aaliyah was just 15, critics couldn’t help but notice how sultry and smooth the young star came across. The album was produced and primarily written by R. Kelly, who also contributed to many of the songs. This includes the title track and lead single, “Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number.” The album also contained chart-topping singles like “Back & Forth” and “At Your Best (You Are Love),” a cover of The Isley Brothers’ 1976 song.

“Back & Forth” was the album’s first single and became an instant hit. It peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. This success helped establish Aaliyah as a rising star in the music industry. “At Your Best (You Are Love)” also received critical acclaim and commercial success. The song reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

Additionally, the album gained positive reviews from critics. Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number was certified Double Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), selling over three million copies worldwide. The album’s success laid the foundation for Aaliyah’s future work. This includes her collaborations with Timbaland and Missy Elliott, which would solidify her as an influential artist in the music industry.

Scandal Involving R. Kelly

Despite the album’s commercial success, the controversy surrounding Aaliyah’s relationship with R. Kelly often overshadows it. The two were said to have been married in a secret ceremony when Aaliyah was underage. Although the marriage was annulled, the scandal has forever tied her debut album to R. Kelly’s contentious reputation. Nevertheless, Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number remains a significant body of work that introduced Aaliyah to the world.

Aaliyah’s Untimely Death

Aaliyah’s life was tragically cut short in a plane crash in 2001 when she was just 22. Despite her short career, her impact on pop culture remains significant. Aaliyah’s distinct style influenced a new generation of artists, and her music continues to be sampled and covered, testifying to her enduring legacy. Further, Aaliyah’s contributions to film should not be overlooked. She made her acting debut in the 2000 film Romeo Must Die alongside Jet Li, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Her final film, Queen of the Damned, was released posthumously in 2002 and demonstrated her ability to take on complex roles.

Even after her passing, Aaliyah’s life and career have been the subject of documentaries, biographies, and even a Lifetime biopic, showcasing her enduring appeal and the fascination surrounding her life and work.

Aaliyah’s Biggest Hits: Songs That Defined A Generation

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We’re about to dive deep into the world of Aaliyah, an artist who left an indelible mark on the industry. Her ethereal voice and cutting-edge productions created iconic tracks that still resonate with listeners today. Despite the controversies that may have unfolded, it’s clear that Aaliyah’s legacy has stood the test of time. “Baby Girl” is fondly remembered—and missed—today.

First, it’s impossible to discuss Aaliyah’s music without mentioning her breakthrough single, “Back & Forth.” Consequently, this track cemented her place as an R&B sensation and paved the way for future success. We can’t ignore her collaborations with acclaimed producer Timbaland, such as “Try Again” and “Are You That Somebody?” showcasing her versatility and undeniable talent. OF course, her work with R. Kelly was her introduction to the masses. Their relationship, working and personal, continues to spawn debates.

The mesmerizing ballad “One in a Million” also demonstrated Aaliyah’s ability to captivate audiences with her sultry vocals and emotive lyrics. Following her death, her posthumous release “Miss You” stands as a poignant tribute to her influence on the Hip Hop and R&B landscape. Ultimately, Aaliyah’s biggest hits are a testament to her timeless artistry and enduring appeal, proving that she remains a beloved icon in the hearts of fans worldwide.

“Are You That Somebody?” (1998)

Aaliyah’s “Are You That Somebody?” is a true hip-hop and R&B gem that continues to captivate fans even decades after its release. Produced by the legendary Timbaland, this catchy tune hit the airwaves in 1998 as part of the Dr. Dolittle movie soundtrack. It didn’t take long for it to become an instant classic. The track quickly gained traction and climbed the Billboard charts, peaking at an impressive No. 4 on the Hot 100. Moreover, it maintained a strong presence on the R&B/Hip Hop chart, securing the No. 1 spot.

“Try Again” (2000)

Released in 2000, Aaliyah’s iconic song “Try Again” quickly became a chart-topping hit and a fan favorite. Another Timbaland smash, the song was featured on the Romeo Must Die soundtrack, a film in which Aaliyah also starred. The song’s success was evident as it reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making Aaliyah the first artist to ever achieve this feat with a song that didn’t receive an official commercial release. “Try Again” also earned Aaliyah a Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. The accompanying music video, featuring Aaliyah’s unforgettable dance moves that made her a multihyphenate talent, further solidified her status as an R&B icon.

“Rock the Boat” (2001)

Aaliyah’s “Rock the Boat” is a classic, even as it remains tragically tied to the singer’s untimely passing. Released in 2001 as the lead single from her self-titled album, this sultry, mid-tempo track once again highlighted Aaliyah’s undeniable talents. “Rock the Boat” climbed the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 14 on the Hot 100 and achieving a notable No. 2 position on the R&B/Hip Hop chart. Sadly, the song’s success marked the beginning of her final chapter.

Tragically, Aaliyah’s life was cut short when she died in a plane crash on August 25, 2001, while returning from filming the music video for “Rock the Boat” in the Bahamas. The music video and song have become poignant reminders of the immense talent and potential lost with her passing. The visual acts as a bittersweet tribute to the icon she was and the legacy she left behind.

“One in a Million” (1996)

As the title track of her sophomore album, this seductive ballad is a staple among Aaliyah’s fans. Unsurprisingly, Timbaland and Missy Elliott’s creative hands were all over “One in a Million.” The track climbed up the Hot 100 charts and reached No. 1 on the Hot Y&B/Hip Hop Airplay list. The slow-grinding groove made for a seductive love song that helped move Aaliyah from an adorable songbird to an artist oozing with sex appeal.

“More Than a Woman” (2001)

“More than a Woman” was released in 2001 as a single from Aaliyah’s self-titled album. Timbaland held down production, making yet another collaboration that fans didn’t know they needed. “More than a Woman” made its way to No. 25 on the Hot 100 and No. 7 on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop chart. This song steered away from Aaliyah’s usual love ballads and instead was delivered as more of a powerful anthem.

“We Need a Resolution” (2001)

Slithering its way onto this list is “We Need a Resolution.” In this track, Aaliyah looks to mend the tension in her relationship. Produced ny Timbaland and co-written by Aaliyah herself, “We Need a Resolution” showcases the collaborative chemistry that made them a formidable musical duo. The song made waves on the Billboard charts, reaching No. 59 on the Hot 100 and No. 15 on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop chart. Another bittersweet moment for fans, as this was one of the last singles to be released during the singer’s life.

“Back & Forth” (1994)

Let’s take a moment to appreciate Aaliyah’s debut single, “Back and Forth,” which propelled her to stardom in 1994. This R&B track, produced by the one and only R. Kelly, later became a conversation starter. Co-written by Kelly and Aaliyah, “Back and Forth” showcased the young singer’s immense talent and marketability at such a young age.

Fans now love the song as much as they did when it was released. While it reached the No. 75 spot on the Hot 100, it grabbed the top position on the R&B/Hip Hop charts. However, the sordid history between Kelly and Aaliyah would place their working relationship in a negative light. It was learned that Kelly was 27 when he secretly wed the 15-year-old singer.

“If Your Girl Only Knew” (1996)

Take a trip down memory lane with this iconic hit, “If Your Girl Only Knew.” Released in 1996, this track featured an unforgettable production paired with Aaliyah’s sassy edge. The dynamic duo of Timbaland and Missy Elliott teamed up to produce and write this one. The trio of superstars never missed and received yet another No. on Billboard‘s Hot R&B/Hip Hop chart. This song, too, strayed from the ethereal love songs that Aaliyah is also known for. The track showed her versatility in being both the industry’s beloved “Baby Girl” and a force you shouldn’t mess with.

“Age Ain’t Nothin But A Number” (1994)

“Age Ain’t Nothin But A Number,” which was released in 1994, stirred up quite a bit of controversy. This smooth R&B track, penned and produced by R. Kelly, became the title track of Aaliyah’s debut album. Her arrival onto the music scene was welcomed with open arms. Albeit not without dissension, which would rear its head much later.

The song enjoyed some chart success, reaching No. 75 on the Billboard Hot 100 and an impressive No. 6 on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop chart. However, “Age Ain’t Nothin But A Number” also attracted attention for reasons beyond music. Aaliyah’s relationship with Kelly raised eyebrows and sparked conversations about the appropriateness of their connection. Some regarded this song as Kelly’s way of grooming the then-rising star. When she became an adult, Aaliyah didn’t address her relationship with Kelly.

“4 Page Letter” (1996)

One of Aaliyah’s most popular love songs is “4 Page Letter.” The Timbaland production was another chart-topping success for the two artists. The single arrived on the singer’s sophomore effort, One in a Million, and it was added to the list of songs displaying Aaliyah’s buttery vocals. Because Tim and Aaliyah worked so well together—and frequently—his ability to match their talents makes their pairing unmatched.

How Did Aaliyah Die? The Tragic Death of the R&B Icon

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With her debut album Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number reaching platinum status just weeks after its release three decades ago, legendary artist Aaliyah showed the music world why she would soon earn the title “Princess of R&B.” However, the singer’s success would be cut short just weeks after the release of her third album in 2001. Tragedy struck, leading to Aaliyah’s death at just 22 years old. How did Aaliyah die, and what legacy has the singer left behind?

A few years after the release of her debut, the singer’s sophomore album, 1996’s One In A Million, found even greater success. It sold an impressive 8 million units worldwide. She once again dominated with her third studio album, 2001’s Aaliyah. This project found even greater success, sealing Aaliyah’s reputation as a legend in the industry.

A Life Cut Short: How Did Aaliyah Die?

Aaliyah (Photo by RJ Capak/WireImage)

Born Aaliyah Dana Houghton on January 16, 1979, Aaliyah was just 22 years old when she died in the tragic plane crash. The “Try Again” singer had wrapped up a music video shoot in the Bahamas when she and eight others boarded a plane heading to Florida. However, the aircraft crashed in the Abaco Islands just minutes after take-off, killing everyone on board. 

An investigation following the deadly crash concluded that the aircraft attempted to take off from the Bahamas while heavily overloaded. These conditions lead to the plane’s failure to maintain flight just minutes after take off. The plane reportedly carried heavy camera equipment from the video shoot. It reportedly weighed approximately 700 pounds over the recommended weight on the vessel. Additionally, the airplane’s pilot did not hold the required credentials to fly the aircraft. Later reports also revealed that the aircraft’s pilot had traces of alcohol and cocaine in his system. 

In the Fall of 2001, just a few months after Aaliyah’s tragic death, a coroner’s inquiry noted that the singer’s chances of surviving the flight were very low. Dr. Giovander Raju said the singer already suffered from a “generally weak heart.” This, the doctor notes, sent Aaliyah into “such a state of shock.”

Truly “One In A Million”: Aaliyah Leaves A Lasting Legacy

Fans of R&B singer/actress Aaliyah looks on at a record store mural of the late singer in what has become a shrine dedicated to her after her death in a plane crash in the Bahamas. (Photo by Steve Grayson/WireImage)

In her short time in the music industry, Aaliyah proved that she truly earned the title “Princess of R&B.” Her influence in the industry is present more than 20 years after her tragic death. The star even found her way onto the big screen starring in the 2000 film Romeo Must Die and the 2002 hit Queen of the Damned.

In August 2021, Aaliyah’s 1996 hit album One In A Million was finally added to streaming services. Soon, her catalog was made available to fans who had waited decades. With this move, some of the singer’s biggest hits found fans on Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music. At the same time, the star’s estate released a statement noting that “protecting Aaliyah’s legacy is, and will always be our focus.”

Career Highlights

Some of Aaliyah’s most popular hits include her 2000 hit “Try Again,” which also is the biggest hit from the Romeo Must Die soundtrack. Other fan-favorites include “Rock the Boat”—she was filming the visual to that track just before her death. “Are You That Somebody” is another massive hit originally part of the Dr. Doolittle soundtrack. “One In A Million,” the title single off the successful album of the same name also lands among the singer’s most popular hits.

Aaliyah remains beloved forever in the hearts of music fans, leaving a legacy of unmatchable talent. Her tragic death marked the end of an era in the industry. She continues to be mourned by fans and supporters, and those who knew her often revisit fond memories. There isn’t any way of telling what would have come of Aaliyah, her life, and her career had she been given the opportunity. Babygirl’s legacy lives on.

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Timbaland’s Biggest Hit Was Made By Accident

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Timbaland is easily one of the greatest producers in the game. He’s helped produce some of the most timeless classics. Not only that, Timbaland’s production style is second to none. Recently, the iconic producer sat down with the I AM Hip-Hop podcast, and revealed how one of his biggest hits with the late Aaliyah came about. Accordingly, the hit record “Try Again” was made by mistake by Timbaland messing around on the keyboard.

“I was playing with the keyboard and it was a mistake, and my engineer Jimmy Douglass caught it,” he began. “I said ‘Jimmy did you catch that lil rhythm?’ [and] he said ‘I sure did,’” Timbaland told the podcast. He continued, “So [after] he caught it and played it back, I put the beat on it. I said ‘Ooo chop it right there,’ and he chopped it right there.’” Not only that, but Timbaland also shared that the late Static Major penned the verse. He noted it sounded too preachy before the lyrics were revised. Moreover, it was Hov who told him it was a hit. However, it took a little convincing, for he was unsure about the track at the time.

Timbaland Opens Up In New Interview

The legendary producer went on to say, “When Jay-Z came in the studio he was like ‘Oh my God,’ and then I was like, ‘yeah we got one.’” Timbaland has never shied away from talking about the myriad of things regarding his immense catalog and career. The man has a whole masterclass on producing. Later in the interview, the producer titan revealed how he discovered Ludacris while discussing his favorite rappers.

“I was the one that found Ludacris,” said the superproducer. “Because Ludacris was working in the radio station and I was like ‘Hey, ain’t nobody sign you? What’s going on here?’ [He was like], ‘nah man’.” He told the podcasters, “Then he came down to Virginia and we did ‘Phat Rabbit,’ and from there, labels started calling. Not only that, Timbaland shared that Luda asked him “Would you sign to Elektra or Dej Jam?” He told him to sign with Dej Jam due to his great talent. However, he noted, “I didn’t know how the business go, I just backed them ’cause I knew he was incredible.” What do you think about all of Timbaland’s career stories? Should he get credit for discovering Ludacris? Let us know!

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GloRilla Channels Aaliyah In Tommy Jeans x Aries Campaign

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In the 1990s, Hip Hop and Tommy Hilfiger were synonymous. The famed fashion house that once appealed to the yuppie crowd found new footing with Hip Hop and R&B, and soon, some of our favorite Golden Era artists were starring in their own campaigns. The late-great Aaliyah famously partnered with the brand, helping to push Tommy Hilfiger further into streetwear circles. It looks like GloRilla is following in the “More Than A Woman” singer’s footsteps now that she stars in a campaign for Tommy Jeans and Aries.

The nostalgia runs deep with this campaign because, at first glance, it’s evident that GloRilla’s Tommy Jeans x Aries fit was a nod to the late singer. The Anyways, Life’s Great hitmaker told Paper: “I’m a big Aaliyah fan, and I love what she did with them. I’m part of keeping a legacy going.” Adding, “It’s refreshing to me, because I love the old-school and being able to bring it to my generation.”

Carrying On A Legacy

The crop tops and bandeaus paired with baggy jeans with matching sneakers are a signature style for Tommy. “I feel highly favored, because it could have been anyone else but me,” said GloRilla. “I gotta make sure I keep it going. Memphis is getting the notoriety it deserves.” The collection will become available to the public tomorrow (March 31) at the Tommy Hilfiger website and limited Tommy Jeans locations. It’s one of several accomplishments in GloRilla’s early days and a more positive one at that.

The rapper has been busy making her mark in Hip Hop. She took to the Grammy Awards stage with dozens of icons to celebrate the culture’s 50th anniversary just last month. Later, at the ceremony, she fulfilled many of our lifelong dreams of meeting Beyoncé—a moment that Glo will cherish forever. When she isn’t meeting the industry’s top tier, you can find her on social media cracking jokes with her fans and sharing encouraging messages. She’s working through controversy following a tragedy at a New York concert, but Glo stays the course. Her team seems to be working overtime to carve out her success. Check out more from GloRilla’s Tommy Jeans x Aries camping below.

GloRilla For Tommy Jeans x Aries

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GloRilla’s Tommy Jeans Campaign Is A Tribute To Aaliyah: ‘I’m Part Of Keeping A Legacy Going’

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GloRilla March 2023
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Within the last year, GloRilla burst onto the scene with “FNF (Let’s Go),” leading to her signing with Yo Gotti’s CMG Records and becoming a ubiquitous voice in hip-hop with Billboard Hot 100 hits like “Tomorrow 2” alongside Cardi B and her debut EP, Anyways, Life’s Great. Yet, the Memphis standout is only beginning to cement her legacy.

That growing legacy now includes Tommy Jeans, as she is a face for the Tommy Hilfiger brand’s new collaboration with Aries. Her Tommy x Aries photos immediately conjured nostalgia for the late Aaliyah’s 1996 campaign.

“I’m a big Aaliyah fan, and I love what she did with them,” GloRilla told Paper. “I’m part of keeping a legacy going.” She added, “It’s refreshing to me, because I love the old-school and being able to bring it to my generation.”

According to Billboard, the Tommy x Aries capsule includes 35 pieces spanning menswear, womenswear, and footwear:

“The retro designs include ‘90s-style silhouettes with exaggerated proportions, split colorways, layers and lots of baggy denim. Some of the key pieces from the collection include a black trucker jacket with a five-pocket matching pant, a jacquard tape logo dress and relaxed indigo denim jacket and baggy split colorway screen-printed jean, similar to what Aaliyah wore in a 1996 campaign for Tommy Jeans.”

The full collection will be available this Friday, March 31, in select retailers on Tommy Hilfiger’s official website.

GloRilla Becomes The New Face For Tommy Jeans + Rumored Racist History

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Glo x Tommy Jeans

Fashion brand Tommy Jeans announced its new collaboration with GloRilla for its latest advertising campaign. The new partnership aims for a positive message, however, the brand has had a complicated past with the hip-hop community. After sparking dating rumors with Kodak Black, Memphis artist GloRilla has teamed up with Tommy Hilfiger by becoming the new […]

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Happy Birthday To Super Producer Timbaland! Top 5 Timbaland Smash Hits

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Screen Shot 2023 03 10 at 8.03.22 AM

When the phrase ‘super producer’ is uttered, not many names come to mind. Names like: RZA, Dr. Dre, DJ Premier, Pete Rock, The Neptunes, Jermaine Dupri, and Kanye West are among the high ranks that have earned the title. Today however, we celebrate the birth of one who help to shape the scope of both Hip Hop and R&B in the late 90s and early 2000s. Timothy Zachery Mosley a.k.a. Timbaland was born on this day [March 10] 49 years ago.

Timbaland is responsible in large part for the success of artists like Missy Elliot, Aaliyah and Ginuwine. Timbaland helped shape a Hip Hop culture in his home state of Virginia and through his production and organization of local artists. He has even crossed over into pop, working with acts like Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado, to create a sound and culture that helped bridge the pop culture gap to allow for more and more trans-genre collaboration.

In honor of Timbaland’s born day, here’s a list of some of his hottest and most influential tracks that have left a permanent mark on Hip Hop and R&B music and culture.

Aaliyah – “One In A Million”

As the third main single of the popular album of the same name, “One in a Million” peaked at #1 on the US Hot Rap/R&B chart. It also claimed the#1 spot in R&B Airplay for six long weeks.

Ginuwine – “Pony”

“Pony” was actually Ginuwine’s debut single and peaked at #1 on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop chart and #6 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song kept it’s spot on the Hot R&B chart for two weeks.

Missy Elliot – “Supa Dupa Fly”

This was the first single from Missy Elliot’s debut album of the same name. This song hit at #4 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip Hop charts and helped to earn Missy a spot on Elektra Records with her own sub-label Goldmind.

Justin Timberlake – “Sexy Back”

“Sexy Back” is the name of one of Justin Timberlake’s most successful and well known solo records. Hitting the #1 spot in a plethora of countries, this song has gone platinum a few times over in this country and across the globe.

Nelly Furtado – “Promiscuous”

“Promiscuous” is the international #1 hit single of Canadian singer/songwriter Nelly Furtado. Although it has peaked at #1 in a few countries around the globe it hit #3 in the United States. This was the second single from the album Loose.

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