It’s been 17 years since the late R&B singer Aaliyah released her debut album, Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number. At just 14, her street sweet style was a welcomed variance from the hardcore Hip-Hop that was monopolizing the urban airwaves—undoubtedly setting the tone for a new wave of futuristic bass heavy R&B.

Throughout the 90’s and early 00’s, the Detroit native would go on to sell over 6 million albums thanks in large part to a laundry list of chart topping hits that included, “Back and Forth”, “One in a Million”, and “Try Again”.

Her final—and best—body of work was found on her 2001 self-titled album. Released in July of 2001—just over a month before her untimely death in a plane crash in The Bahamas—the 14-track CD included production from long time collaborators Timbaland and Missy Elliott. Selling 190,000 copies in its first week of release, the project charted at #2 on the Billboard Hot 200 (but would go on to reach #1 following her death).

Today, August 25, 2011; marks 10 years since the popular singer passed away, and we celebrate her life and immense contributions to music. Centric Remembers…

Aaliyah Dana Haughton
January 16, 1979 – August 25, 2001

Have any fond memories of Aaliyah? Share them in the comments section.

TAGS: Aaliyah, Centric, Detroit, DMX, Jay-Z, Missy Elliott, Timbaland