This past month was the 20th anniversary of the release of Aaliyah's "One in a Million," and even after her death 15 years ago, we still miss our "baby girl," who was taken too soon. Even in her short time here, she managed to leave us with a lasting legacy. She has managed to solidify her title as the "Princess of R&B."
1. If Your Girl Only Knew
This was that anthem that you played when you were debating whether it was worth it to "come to her as a woman" to someone you knew. A song that may be overlooked, but very notable.
2. Are You That Somebody?
Who knew that she was featured on the Dr. Dolittle soundtrack? She was clearly a staple to our childhood. This is where that line from Drake's verse in Bedrock comes from.
3. Try Again
This was all the motivation I needed to pick myself back up.
4. Miss You
A very beautiful song that was released posthumously. This song was accompanied by a video that had her closest peers coming together to remember her. The remix with Jay-Z is worth a listen too.
5. At Your Best (You Are Love)
This is one of the best slow songs to come from the 90's. This song makes you believe in love. Plus, when New New tells Rashad that this is her jam in ATL, we all feel that on a spiritual level.
6. More Than A Woman
A classic, which explains why Solange makes reference to this song in Borderline.
7. The One I Gave My Heart To
This was a song that you would sing when you felt like you just had your heart ripped out... or you would sing it when you wanted to act like you had a man, but you knew you were way too young to even relate.
8. I Don't Wanna
Another great song to come from a movie soundtrack.
9. Back & Forth
This song would've been found on the pregame playlist back in the 90's.
10. Age Ain't Nothing But A Number
One of those songs that you sing along to, but you aren't really thinking about what exactly you're singing about. A classic nonetheless, even if the context is problematic.
11. I Care 4 U
Another showcase of beautiful vocals.
12. We Need A Resolution
And from that moment forward, my first question to anyone who rubbed me the wrong way was, "Did you sleep on the wrong side? I'm catching a bad vibe."
13. 4 Page Letter
The beauty of this song is that my friends and I are all quick to ask if we sent a "4 page letter, enclosed with a kiss," when someone mentions sending a lengthy text to their boo.
14. Rock The Boat
This was her last gift to us, and we couldn't be more appreciative for this.
15. One In A Million
Another love song for the books. Make sure to add this to your playlist.
Although her digital footprints are slowly disappearing, Aaliyah represents a part of our history that can't be forgotten. My Aaliyah CD will be one of the things that I'll be sure to pop in the stereo for my kids, while telling them that "they don't know nothing about this." Rest in Paradise, Aaliyah.
