Throwback Thursday: "Make it Hot" -- Nicole Wray ft. Missy Elliott

One of my favorite little one-hit-wonder-dance jawns from back in the day. Still remember some homies and I kicking it in the backyard one summer night goofing off, creating rhymes and dances to this beat.

Throwback Thursday: "Luv 2 Luv Ya" -- Timbaland & Magoo ft. Shawnna

I've been looking for a quality upload of this video to post as a throwback for a long time. Each emcee puts it down on this track, which may be the best Timb and Magoo ever teamed up on. And, as per any Timb track from around this time, their whole crew (Aaliyah, Ginuwine, Playa, etc.) get cameos in the video.

...and goddamn did Shawnna look like she could make your body shake.

Throwback Thursday: "Are You That Somebody" -- Aaliyah ft Timbaland

Let's switch up our Throwback trend, and give you something to move your feet to.

R.I.P. Aaliyah. We miss ya, babygirl.



My homegirl Steph with the suggestion.

Aaliyah: "Miss You"

I hadn't seen this in a few years, and watching it took me back. This may be the one and only instance of a music video surpassing the song it features in raw emotion and overwhelming sentiment. The depth and breadth of star power who turn out (sports stars, hip-hop stars, R&B stars, movie stars, TV personalities, you name it) is, quite simply, amazing. DMX's opening words, and the mournful silence that almost swallows them, are powerful and commanding; the unspoken—and only briefly displayed—sadness of Timbaland is moving; and Missy Elliot's resolute-in-knowing-a-friend-is-in-a-better-place determination to celebrate her girl's life—instead of crying for her death—is heartwarming.

Rest in peace, Aaliyah.