Aaliyah’s Estate Addresses “Leeches” Using “Tactics Of Deception”

The estate of late R&B singer Aaliyah has released a statement in response to what it calls “unauthorised projects” in her name.

Aaliyah tragically died in 2001 following a plane crash. She and members of her entourage were filming a music video in the Bahamas for her song ‘Rock The Boat‘.

On the return journey to the US, their plane was determined to be overburdened and crashed shortly after take off. Aaliyah and eight others were killed in the accident.

This year marks the 20th anniversary since the 22-year-old’s death and the release of her final album. Much of her music has remained unavailable on streaming platforms for years.

Now in a statement shared on Twitter, Aaliyah’s estate said they took issue with projects they believe are ‘leeching’ from her life’s work.

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

#IStandWithAaliyah pic.twitter.com/Q2zgAvRAgX

— Aaliyah (@AaliyahHaughton) August 5, 2021

Though the statement from Aaliyah’s estate did not specify which ‘projects’ it was referring to, fans speculate it was prompted by a recent announcement by Blackground Records.

On August 4 the singer’s old record label launched a new website in her name with the hashtag #AaliyahIsComing. The label’s founder is Barry Hankerson, Aaliyah’s uncle and former manager, who owns the majority of her masters.

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