Aaliyah’s Estate Releases Statement Against ‘Unauthorized Projects’ As Her Previous Label Hints At Music Release

Aaliyah

Aaliyah’s Estate Releases Statement Against ‘Unauthorized Projects’ As Her Previous Label Hints At Music Release

Aaliyah’s estate is not happy with her previous label for teasing ‘unauthorized projects.’ Most of Aaliyah’s popular hits are not available for fans to stream. Recently the late songstress’ uncle and former manager, Barry Hankerson, hinted that Aaliyah’s music ‘is coming.’ He also revealed that he is bringing back his old label Blackground Records, which was responsible for releasing the majority of Aaliyah’s musical projects. The old label has launched a new website for Blackground Records 2.0 as well as social media accounts too.

In addition to that, there’s also a hashtag and website seemingly linked to Blackground Records 2.0 that is claiming ‘Aaliyah Is Coming.’

Aaliyah’s estate recently released a statement calling out Barry Hankerson for his actions. The statement reads,

“Protecting Aaliyah’s legacy is and will always be our focus. For 20 years we have battled behind the scenes, enduring shadowy tactics of deception with unauthorized projects targeted to tarnish.”

“Now, in this 20th year, this unscrupulous endeavor to release Aaliyah’s music without transparency or full accounting to the estate compels our hearts to express a word – forgiveness.”

It adds,

“Although we will continue to defend ourselves and her legacy lawfully and justly, we want to preempt the inevitable attacks on our character by all the individuals who have emerged from the shadows to leech off of Aaliyah’s life’s work. Ultimately, we desire closure and a modicum of peace so we can facilitate the growth of the Aaliyah Memorial Fund and other creative projects that embody Aaliyah’s true essence, which is to inspire strength and positivity for people of all creeds, races and cultures around the world.”

See Full Statement Below:

Aaliyah’s estate has also launched their own hashtag: #IStandWithAaliyah. A few of her friends and family members have come forward to show support towards the estate’s wishes. Aaliyah’s brother shared the statement on his Instagram page.

Missy Elliott has shared the statement to her own socials as well.

What are your thoughts on this entire situation? Tell us in the comments below. 

Authored by: Twila-Amoure McDaniel