A Tribute To Babygirl

Yesterday marked 20 years since the death of Aaliyah.

Everyone that knows me, knows that I am highly inspired by Aaliyah and everything she stood for. I never got a chance to experience her as an artist but when I found out about who she was as a kid, I immediately connected with who she was as a person. From watching how she carried herself in interviews to listening to the delivery in her music, she became one of the few people I idolized. I see a lot of myself in her even 20 years later.

I turned 22 this year and to celebrate I decided to take photos. As for the inspiration behind my photoshoot, I wanted to pay tribute to Aaliyah because she passed at the age of 22. I thought it would be a great idea to dedicate my 22nd photoshoot to one of my idols, Aaliyah Dana Haughton.

I am also one of the many fans that have been waiting on Background Records to release her studio albums and compilations. After 20 years, the label has decided to re-release her music! The first album that dropped was my favorite Aaliyah album, so with every picture, I’ll choose a favorite from “One In A Million” and to show my appreciation for the music.

#1 One In A Million

This one is a classic; the song that everyone everyone knows. This song stands out to me because it shows the sweeter side of Aaliyah, which is a side I can relate to. I also love the signature sound of Timbaland and Missy that this record brings. With this being the title track, I can say that it sets the tone for the album as a whole.

Favorite lyric: "I'll give you anything you want from me"

#2 A Girl Like You ft. Treach

This track brings the Hip-Hop vibe to the album, which is something that I appreciate. I'm am not a Naughty By Nature fan but I can say that Treach brought swag to the song. I love the back and forth on the record because it gives a sense of chemistry. I absolutely love the "da da da" part of the song. This was a perfect feature!

Favorite lyric: "I'm looking for a girl like you, well here I go"

#3 Never Givin' Up ft. Tavarius Polk

This is my favorite song on the record besides the singles. I play this one more than any song on the trackless. I would say it is an underrated song because it is arguably one of the best songs on the album. It gives off an sensual but sad feeling, which is a common theme on this album. I'm not familiar with the feature on this track, but he was a perfect fit for this song.

Fav lyric: "When we're makin' love, you're drivin' me insane"

#5 The One I Gave My Heart To

I could not end my list without including the Diane Warren-penned song. I sing this song like I've been heartbroken a million times! The delivery in this song is one of Aaliyah's best on the album. I could tell that she really felt something while recording this. Warren is an incredible writer and Aaliyah was the perfect person to give this song to.

Fav lyric: "You said you love me, but you didn't love me"