But Aaliyah is not known for bouffant wigs or beautiful gowns. Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” and “Think,” too, are drag staples. Diana Ross’ LGBTQ anthem “I’m Coming Out” was born after producer and musician Nile Rodgers’ trip to a New York City gay club, where he saw numerous drag queens dressed in costumes inspired by Ross, performing her hits.
To Dèvo Monique, it shouldn’t be something that replicates one of the late singer-actress’ iconic looks - maybe her vampire drag in “Queen of the Damned,” or an all-white leather pantsuit à la her “More Than a Woman” video - but something she’d wear today if she were still alive.Ī hallmark of drag is paying tribute to Black women from Detroit. The look, which they are keeping secret until the big night, will be unveiled at Metropolitan Bar, where several New York City drag queens will take the stage in various states of Aaliyah dress. This book was written without the participation of Aaliyah’s family/estate.In the run-up to an Aaliyah-themed drag show at a Brooklyn gay bar this month, drag performer Dèvo Monique is concentrating on “commissioning a look.” “There’s no better way to pay your respect to R&B’s true angel than to lose yourself in the pages” (Kim Osorio, journalist and author of Straight from the Source) of this “dazzling biography” ( Publishers Weekly) that is as unforgettable as its subject. Her enduring influence on today’s artists-such as Rihanna, Drake, Normani, and many more-is also celebrated, providing Aaliyah’s discography a cultural critique that is long overdue. Baby Girl features never-before-told stories, including studio anecdotes, personal tales, and eyewitness accounts on the events leading up to her untimely passing. Now, two decades later, the full story of Aaliyah’s life and cultural impact is finally and lovingly revealed. Like her song, she was already “more than a woman” but her shocking death in a plane crash prevented her from fully growing into one.
In a definitive and “ excellent homage to a star who left this planet too soon” (Questlove), the life, career, tragic death, and evolution of Aaliyah into a music legend are explored-featuring in-depth research and exclusive interviews.īy twenty-two years old, Aaliyah had already accomplished a staggering amount: hit records, acclaimed acting roles, and fame that was just about to cross over into superstardom.
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