Aaliyah broke through at a young age. In 1994, when she was only 15 years old when her debut album “Age ain’t nothing but a number” was released. She kept her age a secret at the time, because she didn’t want to emphasis on her young age. And perhaps because she was already married to R. Kelly, the producer of her debut album (he was 27 at the time). On her marriage certificate, she had lied about her age. The two divorced soon after the marriage leaked.
From 1996 Aaliyah started working with the then unknown producers Missy Elliott and Timbaland. She had big hits especially in America with songs like “If Your Girl Only Knew” and “4 Page Letter”. In the rest of the world she broke through in 1998 with the song “Are you that somebody?”. From then on, Aaliyah also started to focus on acting, in 2000 she starred in the movie Romeo Must Die with Jet Li, she also made the soundtrack for the movie. Especially “Try again” was a big hit. In 2001 Aaliyah died at a too young age from the consequences of a plane crash, she was 22 years old …
10. The One I Gave My Heart To (1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnFKa8iuwHU
This emotional ballad showcases Aaliyah’s vocal range and depth. It’s about the heartbreak of a broken relationship and the pain of betrayal by a loved one.
9. Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number (1995)
The title track of her debut album, this song delves into the complexities of a relationship with a significant age difference. It’s a bold statement about love and maturity.
8. If Your Girl Only Knew (1996)
A song about a man having an affair, it showcases Aaliyah’s confident and assertive side. The lyrics are sharp and direct, making it an unforgettable hit.
7. 4 Page Letter (1996)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HN0GBRu10E
A love song that tells the story of a woman expressing her feelings for a man through a letter. The song is both intimate and powerful, with an irresistible melody.
6. Rock the Boat (2001)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5AAcgtMjUI
One of Aaliyah’s last hits before her tragic death, “Rock the Boat” is a sensual song about love and desire. The sultry melody and captivating music video make it a timeless classic.
5. Back and Forth (1994)
Aaliyah’s debut single, this song celebrates youth and fun. It has an infectious beat and a youthful energy that makes you sing along.
4. More Than a Woman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NLUthL6-BU
A tribute to the strength and beauty of women, this song is both powerful and elegant. Aaliyah’s voice glides effortlessly over the melody, making it an unforgettable listening experience.
3. One in a Million (1996)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKbWF1jwMhE
This song, about the rarity of true love, is one of Aaliyah’s most iconic tracks. Her soft, velvety voice combined with the R&B beat makes it a timeless classic.
2. Try Again (2000)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEF_-IcnQC4
Known from the soundtrack of the movie “Romeo Must Die”, this song is an anthem of perseverance and resilience. The message is clear: if you fail, try again.
1. Are You That Somebody? (1998)
Perhaps one of Aaliyah’s most recognizable songs, “Are You That Somebody?” is a perfect mix of R&B and pop. The catchy melody and memorable music video made it one of the biggest hits of the late ’90s.
