Sarah Warsi

This week marked 15 years since the untimely death of R&B singer Aaliyah.

It’s truly hard to believe that so much time has passed.

Aaliyah had been a rising star in the early ’90s having released two very successful albums with 1994’s Age Ain’t Nothin’ But a Number and 1996’s  One In A Million – which coincidentally came out almost 20 years ago today – but it wasn’t until 1998 that I began to grow fond of her music with the track Are You That Somebody? for the Dr. Dolittle movie soundtrack.

I then went back in time and discovered some of her other hits such as the classic One In a Million and The One I Gave My Heart To and I officially became a fan. I recall being so fascinated by her poise and maturity beyond her years. She was classy, down-to-earth, and her humility could be seen in all of her performances and interviews.

At 22, she was already an accomplished singer, dancer and performer and had just started dabbling in the world of acting with her film debut in 2000’s Romeo Must Die.

Every year when August 25th rolls around, I find myself reflecting on what could have been had the events of that fateful day in 2001 transpired differently. I am confident that if Aaliyah was with us today, she would continue to be topping the charts with great music, including collaborating with some of the major acts in the business today.

And since acting seemed to come to her quite naturally, I have no doubt that she would have also had a budding career on the big screen as well.

It’s hard to say what I want my legacy to be when I’m long gone. At this point… I want people to remember me as a full on entertainer and a good person. – Aaliyah

The above quote was taken from one of Aaliyah’s last interviews and I do believe that her wish has been fulfilled over the years and that her legacy will continue to live on for a long, long time.

One great way her family has carried on her legacy has been through the creation of a new tribute fragrance in her name. (Pictured right) The scent is unisex but leans more towards men since Aaliyah preferred masculine scents. Since its launch, it has received stellar reviews and is worth checking out. I am considering ordering a bottle for myself.

Aaliyah’s passing in the prime of her life and career is a stark reminder that our life on this planet is precious and none of us are guaranteed a tomorrow. So just continue to find happiness in each day as it comes, be humble, grateful, and just be thankful for life.

Aaliyah’s presence will always be felt through her timeless music.

To celebrate her life and talent, I’ve included the video to one of my favourite Aaliyah songs, Try Again, which also happens to showcase her awesome choreography skills.

Rest in eternal peace, Aaliyah.

What’s your favourite Aaliyah song? Please share!

 

 

The photo of Aaliyah’s at the top of this post can be found here.

Aaliyah’s quote sited in this post can be found here.