Reacts To Aaliyah's Death
The world of hip hop, urban music, and Hollywood is devasted to hear the news of the tragedy of Aaliyah's untimely death. She was one of urban music's shining stars with a bright and promising career ahead of her. She was just on VIBE's August 2001 cover. I met with Aaliyah several months ago in my VIBE office to discuss the cover and story. That is typical Aaliyah behavior, professional and hands-on! She was a hardworking perfectionist who strove for the best! She was multi-faceted: singer, actress, dancer. Aside from her multi-platinum recording, hit singles, box-office smash movie, Aaliyah was a role-model. In the male-dominated worlds of hip hop and music, Aaliyah stood her ground as a strong, independent woman. She didn't use her beauty to gain success, she used her talent. Aaliyah's music is also inspirational. Songs like "Try Again," "One In A Million" and "We Need A Resolution" pushed her fans to have a good time while motivating them to be better people, strong, and confident. Aaliyah was reaching for her dreams and pushing her fans to achieve their dreams.

The VIBE family is sends our sincerest sympathy to Aaliyah's family, Blackground, and Virgin.

Peace,

Emil Wilbekin

Editor-in-Chief