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Aaliyah

Aaliyah Dana Haughton was an American singer, actress, dancer, and model known for helping shape contemporary R&B and pop.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Aaliyah Dana Haughton was an American singer, actress, dancer, and model who helped shape contemporary R&B and pop music. She released influential albums in the 1990s and also acted in films. Her career was cut short when she died in a plane crash in 2001 at age 22.

Early life

Aaliyah Dana Haughton was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1979. She began performing at a young age and later became a prominent figure in American popular music and entertainment.

Music career

Aaliyah became a successful R&B artist in the 1990s, with singles and albums that drew wide attention. She is often credited with influencing the sound and style of contemporary R&B and urban pop. Her studio albums included Age Ain't Nothing but a Number, One in a Million, and Aaliyah.

Acting career

In addition to music, Aaliyah worked as an actress. She appeared in feature films including Romeo Must Die and Queen of the Damned.

Death and legacy

Aaliyah died at age 22 in an airplane crash after leaving the Bahamas on August 25, 2001. Her career and image continued to influence music, fashion, and popular culture after her death. Reports and later accounts indicate she had a marriage to R. Kelly that was later annulled.

Key facts

  • She was an American recording artist who helped redefine contemporary R&B, pop, and hip hop.
  • She was known by nicknames including the 'Princess of R&B' and the 'Queen of Urban Pop.'
  • Her studio albums included Age Ain't Nothing but a Number, One in a Million, and Aaliyah.
  • She died on August 25, 2001, in a plane crash in the Bahamas.
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Canadian context

Aaliyah’s music and image remained influential in Canada through R&B, pop, and urban music audiences, and her work continued to receive airplay and cultural recognition among Canadian listeners.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Aaliyah?
Aaliyah Dana Haughton was an American singer, actress, dancer, and model known for influential 1990s R&B and pop music.
How old was Aaliyah when she died?
She was 22 years old.
What happened to Aaliyah?
She died in a plane crash in the Bahamas on August 25, 2001.
How did Aaliyah die?
She was killed when a plane she was traveling in crashed shortly after takeoff near Marsh Harbour, Bahamas.
What songs did Aaliyah sing?
Her best-known songs include "Back & Forth," "At Your Best (You Are Love)," "One in a Million," "Are You That Somebody?" and "Try Again."
Who was Aaliyah married to?
She was reportedly married to R. Kelly; the marriage was later annulled.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aaliyah
    Supports: Birth name, dates, occupations, death, age at death, cause of death, and general career overview.
  2. EBSCO Research Startershttps://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/aaliyah
    Supports: Biographical details including birth, death, place of death, and age at death.
  3. Biography.comhttps://www.biography.com/musicians/aaliyah-r-kelly-relationship-true-story
    Supports: Discussion of Aaliyah's reported marriage to R. Kelly and annulment.
  4. IMDbhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004691/
    Supports: Film credits and biographical summary.