Debut albums

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.

DMX’s Debut “It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot” Turns 25

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Hip Hop lost one of its best soldiers when DMX passed away. The Rap icon struggled throughout his life but didn’t let his obstacles stop him from becoming one of the most inspirational artists the culture has ever seen. If there is a chance to celebrate the life and talents of DMX, we won’t miss it. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of DMX’s debut album, It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot, we remember the legendary rapper’s impact. Let’s revisit the groundbreaking release that helped solidify Earl Simmons as a Rap legend.

A (Gentle) Beast From New York

American rapper DMX in March, 2004 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gregory Bojorquez/Getty Images)

Born Earl Simmons in 1970, DMX rose to prominence in the late 1990s. DMX spoke at end about his tough upbringing, often enduring abuse from his mother and finding solace on the streets. There, he would discover friendships in abandoned or wild street dogs. While they were a threat to others, they found comfort in Simmons. The partnership would become DMX’s staple, often barking in songs or keeping dogs by his side.

The rapper’s raw, aggressive style and introspective lyrics about personal struggle and faith set him apart from his contemporaries. Before his debut album, DMX gained attention through his electrifying live performances and guest appearances on tracks like LL Cool J’s “4, 3, 2, 1” and Mase’s “24 Hrs To Live.”

It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot Storms The World

DMX’s debut album, It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot, was released on May 19, 1998, courtesy of Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings. The album showcased DMX’s signature growling delivery and hard-hitting lyrics. With Swizz Beatz, Dame Grease, and P.K. productions, the album featured an array of dark, atmospheric beats that perfectly complemented DMX’s intense style. Still, his gentler approach to songs like “How It’s Goin’ Down” resonated with women. Soon, DMX was finding mass appeal.

It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot included several standout tracks, such as “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Get At Me Dog,” and “Stop Being Greedy.” The album also featured guest appearances from fellow Ruff Ryders members like The LOX, Drag-On, and Eve. This cemented DMX in the mainstream and showed that the collective was expanding exponentially.

Critical Acclaim

Upon its release, It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot garnered widespread praise and commercial success. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, selling over 250,000 copies in its first week. It went on to achieve quadruple-platinum status, with more than four million copies sold in the United States.

The album’s lead single, “Get At Me Dog,” reached No. 39 on the Billboard Hot 100, while “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Stop Being Greedy” also enjoyed charting success. The project set the stage for what was to arrive from DMX’s catalog. The introduction to the New York emcee was arguably one of his most vulnerable with commercial appeal.

DMX’s Influence Is Unmatched

It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot had a lasting impact on hip hop, as DMX’s authenticity echoed throughout. Although the trauma manifested itself lyrically and personally, he was unapologetic about who he was. He never kept his Christian faith a secret and often would stop during live shows to pray over the crowd. This battle between what was and who he wanted to be was palpable, and his debut record was the beginning of his public journey. Much of who DMX was contrasted with the materialism and flashy lifestyles often depicted in rap. However, his influence can be found in many growling, raspy-voiced artists who emerged after him.

The Death Of An Icon

INGLEWOOD, CA – OCTOBER 04: DMX performs onstage during the Bad Boy Family Reunion Tour at The Forum on October 4, 2016 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Live Nation)

DMX tragically passed away on April 9, 2021, after suffering a heart attack. The rapper was hospitalized before his passing, and the worldwide response was unlike any other. Well wishes and kind words poured in, but sadly, DMX succumbed to his ailments. Many of his contemporaries highlighted DMX’s significant impact on their lives, personally and professionally, and celebrated his undeniable influence on the culture.

In the wake of his death, DMX’s music experienced a resurgence in popularity, with fans revisiting It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot and his subsequent albums. Streaming services reported a significant increase in DMX’s music consumption, underscoring fans’ lasting connection with his artistry. As we reflect on the album’s 25-year journey, let’s honor DMX’s memory by appreciating the unforgettable mark he left behind.

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