Remembering Aaliyah: Dallas Was the Last City to Feel Her Love
Today marks the anniversary of the tragic passing of Aaliyah Dana Haughton — a voice, a presence, and an influence that continues to shape R&B and hip hop culture. Known to the world simply as Aaliyah, the “Princess of R&B” left us far too soon on August 25, 2001, in a plane crash in the Bahamas at just 22 years old.
Aaliyah’s career was short, but it was powerful. At only 15 years old, she released her debut album Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number. By 1996, her sophomore project One in a Million, produced by Timbaland and Missy Elliott, had shifted the sound of R&B with futuristic beats and Aaliyah’s smooth, laid-back delivery. Her 2001 self-titled third album — Aaliyah — cemented her artistry with classics like “Rock the Boat,” “We Need a Resolution,” and “More Than a Woman.”
What makes her story hit even closer to home for North Texas is that just eight days before her untimely death, Aaliyah’s very last album signing for her “Aaliyah” album was at Sound City Music Store in Dallas. Fans lined up to meet her, grab autographs, and share in the moment with an artist who was already legendary but still so approachable and full of love for her supporters. For many in Dallas, that memory remains an unforgettable piece of her legacy. She was interviewed by Dallas radio legend Skip Cheatham on Flava TV when she shared a final message to the DFW saying, “Thanks to all the fans for your love and support I really appreciate it, and I hope you enjoy the movies and the films!”
Her influence wasn’t limited to music. Aaliyah crossed into film, starring in Romeo Must Die alongside Jet Li, and later appearing in Queen of the Damned. She was also cast as the character Zee in The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, but due to insufficient footage, her role was recast with Nona Gaye. A tribute to Aaliyah was included on the DVD for the films, featuring some of the scenes she filmed.
Even 24 years later, Aaliyah’s impact remains strong. Artists today—from Beyoncé to Drake—cite her as an inspiration. Her style, sound, and grace broke barriers, blending street cool with angelic softness in a way that set the blueprint for generations to come.
For Dallas fans especially, the memory of her last signing here makes her story even more personal. As we honor Aaliyah’s legacy today, we remember not only the superstar but also the young woman who took time to show love to her fans—right here in our city—just days before the world lost her.
Rest in peace to Aaliyah. Your music, your films, your spirit, and your influence live on forever.
The Kickback w/ Jazzi Black and DJ Wire Weekdays 9A-3P, Saturdays 12P-3 P | Follow us on IG @kickbackoffair , Follow Jazzi Black on TikTok @jazziblack
