The Biggest Tragedy Of Aaliyah’s Life — Her Music Still Missing 19 Years After Her Death

R&B sensation Aaliyah tragically passed away in a plane crash on August 25, 2001. Her fans were left heartbroken as they mourned the talented star that was ready to take on the entire world. Now, 19 years later, people are still wondering why some of Aaliyah’s music is missing from streaming platforms.
Aaliyah’s Tragic Death Shocked The World At Such A Pivotal Time In Her Career
Aaliyah was well on her way to taking over the music industry with her 2000 single “Try Again.” The song earned her a Grammy nomination for best female R&B vocalist. Her unique style and voice made her a real force to be reckoned with. She also saw major success with her second album released in 1996. She was only 17 at the time when her single “If Your Girl Only Knew” and went double platinum. Aaliyah went on to conquer the big screens, making her acting debut in the film “Romeo Must Die.” Before her death, she was signed on to appear in two sequels to the hit franchise “The Matrix.” Even Beyonce was a huge fan of the star after they appeared together at the 2000 MTC Movie Awards. Beyonce called her “one of the hottest artists out there.”
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After filming a music video for her song “Rock the Boat” in the Bahamas, Aaliyah boarded a plane that set out for Florida. It crashed almost immediately upon takeoff. She was just 22 years old at the time of her death. Eight others on board also lost their lives that day. The world was broken after Aaliyah’s death with many left in complete shock that she was gone so soon. She had a whole life and career with exciting roles ahead of her. The video for “Rock The Boat” premiered on October 9, 2001, along with a half-hour special to honor the late singer.
Where Is Aaliyah’s Music?
Some of Aaliyah’s music is still missing from digital platforms today even 19 years after her death. And her fans are definitely seeking answers. Her first album called “Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number” was made during her time spent with controversial artists R. Kelly. The pair were married when she was only 15. R. Kelly was 27 at the time in what some feel like is a shameful way to honor her legacy, by putting out the one album that was made in the presence of an accused sexual abuser. Though they both denied the marriage, the press uncovered a marriage certificate.
This is the only album of hers that is currently available on Apple Music and Spotify. But, her next two albums “One In A Million” and “Aaliyah” are currently not available on streaming sites in full. The songs “Try Again,” and “More Than a Woman” are available on some sites in compilations, but the full albums are noticeably missing.
In 2017 Aaliyah fans were buzzing when her posthumous greatest hits collection “Ultimate Aaliyah” was available on Apple Music. However, they were outraged after it disappeared from the platform after only 24 hours. Her uncle Barry Hankerson manages her music catalog. He formed Blackground Records which eventually stopped releasing music, leaving the fate of Aaliyah’s biggest hits up in the air. He sold his stake in the company in which many people hoped would mean all of Aaliyah’s music would be released on streaming platforms, but so far that has yet to happen.
Some Good News For Aaliyah Fans
Recently, an official message from the Estate of Aaliyah Houghton was released. It says “To all our loyal fans: We are excited to announce that communication has commenced between the estate and various record labels about the status of Aaliyah’s music catalogue, as well as its availability on streaming platforms in the near future. Thank you for your continued love and support. More updates to come!”
One fan on twitter wrote “Great sign that things are actually moving forward with her music.”
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This message definitely seems like Aaliyah fans will have something to look forward to in the near future with the promise of her legendary music to appear on streaming platforms.