Aaliyah, born January 16, 1979, was an American R&B singer and actress. During her short career, Aaliyah accomplished so much. She released three studio albums between the ‘90s and early 2000s and garnered acclaim and recognition from major industry institutions like the Recording Academy.

Aaliyah also starred in movies like ‘Romeo Must Die’ and ‘Queen of the Damned.’ She even contributed music to films like ‘Anastasia,’ ‘Doctor Dolittle,’ and ‘Varsity Blues.’ Unfortunately, the incredible promise of Aaliyah’s career was cut short when she and others were killed in a tragic plane crash on August 25, 2001. Though she left far too soon, Aaliyah accomplished so much.

This May 9, 2001 file photo shows R&B singer and actress Aaliyah posing for a photo in New York. To see more images of the stunning singer and actress prior to her tragic death, check out the rest of the gallery by scrolling through the images below.