Aaliyah's Presence Still Felt Beyond the Grave

By Christine Thomasos, Christian Post Reporter Monday, January 16, 2012

The influences of Aaliyah, multi-platinum selling singer and actress who was born on Jan. 16, can still be found 11 years after her death.

Azealia Banks, an up-and-coming New York rapper who was selected to perform in the 2012 Coachella music festival, proved just that with the release of the song “Needsumluv.”

The recording samples the late Aaliyah's song, "One in a Million."

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Music producer and artist Missy Elliot, who worked with Aaliyah closely in the past, tweeted her recognition for those who have held onto the memory of the late singer.

"Thank you to all of the Aaliyah fans for remembering the impact she has had on music,” Elliot tweeted. “So appreciated!"

Drake, the popular rapper who has the late singer tattooed on his back and her image on the earpiece used for his performances, re-tweeted Elliot’s statement.

During the anniversary of her death last year, he wrote an open letter to the singer.

"I've never lost a parent, a friend, or a lover but I will never forget this day for the rest of my life,” Drake wrote. “I remember getting the news that you had passed and it connected with my heart like a clean shot from Muhammad Ali. I was crushed."

Drake, the self-proclaimed biggest fan of Aaliyah, spoke about the singer’s influence still being evident today.

“But you should know, we all listen to you every day and we remain inspired and moved by all that you've given the world," he wrote. "I hope I make the right life choices so I can end up in heaven where I know you rest your head. I'll continue to make music in your honor until the day we finally meet."

Tionna Smalls, media personality and youth advocate, tweeted about the influence Aaliyah would have if she were still around.

"Happy Birthday to the late great Aaliyah," Smalls tweeted. "Many R&B/pop chicks would be unemployed if she was alive."