Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B (2014) Movie Script
My funny Valentine
Sweet comic Valentine
You make me smile
with your heart
Don't change your hair
for me
- Not if you care for me
- Look at my baby girl on TV.
- She looks good, doesn't she?
- Stay, little Valentine
Sta-a-a-a-ay
Each day is Valentine
E-e-e-each day is Valentine
E-e-e-e-e-each day
is Valentine's
Da-a-a-a-ay
And I got a new client.
R. Kelly.
- You're kidding.
- I'm his new manager.
We made it official today.
Congrats, man, that's big.
- Yes. Yes.
- Fabulous.
- Where's your sister?
- In her room.
She on her way down?
I don't know.
She's practicing again.
Hey. Come here.
Here you go.
Tell her uncle Barry's here.
- R. Kelly?
- Yeah.
Wow!
So, um...
All the disappointment
with "Star Search"...
Well, she cried for two days,
but by day three...
Sometimes I wonder
where she gets "The Focus."
Well, she grew up with you singing.
Only I wasn't willing to put
my life on hold for a career.
Now, that little girl
upstairs -- she is all in.
- Now she wants acting lessons.
- Mm-hmm.
- Acting?
- She doesn't want to be put in a box.
She wants to do music and act
like Streisand and Cher.
- She wants to do it all.
- That's good. That's good.
All the more reason
why she'll do great in Vegas.
- Vegas?
- Yeah.
Gladys is doing five nights
at Bally's,
and she wants Aaliyah
to perform with her.
- Don't play with us, Barry.
- I'm not.
Look, just because Gladys and I
are divorced
doesn't mean that
she loves Aaliyah any less.
She wants her to do a solo
and maybe a duet to close the show.
All five nights.
What do you think, babe?
W-W-What --
I think it'll do wonders
for her confidence.
- Oh, yes.
- That's exactly why Gladys is doing this.
She loves that little girl.
We all love that little girl.
We love Gladys, too.
Just have fun out there.
Don't worry about missing a note.
Don't worry about that guy
in the audience
that might not be smiling.
When you out there, just love on them.
- "Love on Them," auntie Gladys?
- Mm-hmm.
I'm gonna tell you a secret,
something I learned
when I was just about your age,
performing with the pips.
The secret to delivering a great show,
the kind that folks are glad
they spent their hard-earned money on,
is to perform with love.
Baby, you gotta love that stage.
You gotta appreciate every person
in each one of those seats.
And you've got to never forget
that they could've been
somewhere else,
but they chose to hear and see you.
- Hold for one?
- Love to.
Thanks.
Now, if you remember that
and you love on that audience
from your heart,
they'll not only feel it,
but they're gonna want
to re-live that feeling.
Which is why your fans come
see you over and over again.
You know, when I told that promoter
that my little 11-year-old niece
wanted to be a part of the show,
they were concerned that you
were gonna crack under pressure.
Ladies and gentlemen...
You know what I told 'em.
Pressure makes diamonds.
- ...please give a warm welcome...
- And we are flawless diamonds,
- the perfect cut.
- to the incomparable empress of soul...
- The perfect color.
- ...Gladys Knight!
- You ready?
- Let's do this.
- Call me later.
- Bye, Keisha.
Bye.
Hey, babygirl.
So, what did they say?
What did they say?
Jive gave us a distribution deal.
Oh, this is so cool, uncle Barry!
This is beyond cool.
You know what this means?
You're gonna be rich?
It means now that we've got
distribution for blackground,
we can put out records
on whomever we want.
- You mean...?
- Yes.
For real?
For real.
Oh, my god. Oh, my god.
I got a record deal!
I got a record deal!
- Come on.
- Mm-hmm!
Make sure it's straight.
Don't you worry 'bout what I'm doing.
It's the Detroit high school
for the performing arts, mom.
Anybody could be in the audience!
And I don't know that?
When I'm introduced,
should I be introduced
as Aaliyah Dana Haughton
or Aaliyah Haughton?
Well, that's a good question.
What do you think, mom?
Mm. The simpler, the better.
So just... Aaliyah.
Yeah. Just Aaliyah.
Like Cher or Madonna.
Aaliyah.
Yeah.
- Why not? I like it.
- Yeah.
Looks good, grandma.
Mm-hmm. I know what I'm doing.
Whoa, let's give them another
round of applause, ladies and gentlemen!
Keisha.
I know you get nervous,
but you're gonna be great.
Now, go out there and kill it.
And our next performer needs
no introduction.
She's simply the one and only
Aaliyah!
Make some noise, ladies and gentlemen!
Hey, hey! Come on! Come on!
I want to see y'all dance!
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't they
just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
They say I'm crazy
I really don't care
That's my prerogative
They say I'm nasty
But I don't give a damn
Gettin' boys is how I live
Some ask me questions
Why am I so real?
But they don't understand me
I really don't know the deal
about my sisters
Trying hard to make it right
Not long ago,
before I win this fight
Sing!
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't they
just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
Whoo!
Come on! Get on your feet!
I want to see a move.
Uh! Uh! Uh-uh!
Yeah, where my girls at?
Where my girls at?
Come on, come on, come on!
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't they
just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't -- why don't
they just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
Whoo!
It's my prerogative
Yeah! Yes!
You just witnessed
the birth of a star,
ladies and gentlemen.
Whoo! My girl!
It's been so long.
It's like I don't even have
a record deal.
Uncle Barry doesn't
believe in me anymore.
- That's nonsense.
- Is it?
I mean, so far, I've only done
school talent shows and plays.
Which you kill every time,
like you did tonight.
Like that matters.
Uncle Barry has Jive.
Why does he need me?
How about your dad and I
call Barry tomorrow?
Actually, do you mind if I meet
with uncle Barry tomorrow
without you guys?
We're your managers.
It's our job to have
these types of conversations.
I know, mom, but...
Please?
Please?
- Hi.
- Hey, babygirl.
Didn't know you were passing by.
Is this a bad time?
- No. Not at all.
- What's up?
Will you be completely honest with me?
Most definitely.
What's --
what's on your mind?
Is everything okay?
Well, I haven't even really been
in the studio.
I-I understand if you guys
don't believe in me anymore.
So...
If you're not gonna make
my album, just tell me.
Aaliyah, you are so far off,
it's almost funny.
I am?
Yes.
I've just been waiting
for the right moment.
And I know it's been a long time,
but it has to be the right play.
I've been working one angle
since I signed you.
And I'm close -- real close,
but I can't tell you yet.
I'm gonna need you to trust me.
Can you do that?
Hmm?
- Yes.
- It's me against the world
I want to talk to you about
my niece, man -- Aaliyah.
This again, man?
Can I -- can I celebrate
my album for a minute, please?
C-can I do that?
Damn.
I-I'm finally in a position
where I can produce anybody, man.
You know that.
So I don't understand how you're still
sweatin' me about working
with some kid.
Robert, if she was just some kid,
would I be coming at you like this?
I'm doing you a favor.
Favor, huh? Okay.
I'm only, like, the most
in-demand writer/producer
in the game right now, that's all.
Yeah, I know that.
I'm the one fielding the calls.
Look,
just listen to the girl sing for you.
If you feel the same way afterwards,
I'll never mention the subject again.
Just go in there and be yourself
and everything will fine.
Be myself in front of R. Kelly?
Mom, he's, like, the king of R&B.
This is only the most important
audition of my entire life.
This ain't about R. Kelly.
This is about you.
If he doesn't see your talent,
that's on him.
But if you don't bring it,
it's on you.
- Babygirl.
- Hey.
Hey, how are you doing?
You made it.
Where's your mother?
Um, she's still in the car.
Rob.
Rob!
Rob, this is my niece Aaliyah.
Aaliyah, R. Kelly.
- It's an honor to meet you.
- Yeah, you too.
You know, Aaliyah's a huge fan of yours.
When I told her you agreed
to let her sing for you --
I don't mean to cut you off, man,
but i-I'm kind of crunching time here.
So, you know, if we could
move this along a bit.
Vocal booth's in there,
through that door.
There's some headphones
on the stand for ya.
Okay.
Um, right.
You know, you could be
a little friendly.
Man, you asked me to listen.
I'm listening.
You didn't say nothing
about friendly.
Why you acting like I ain't got
deadlines to meet.
You'll finish your Janet Jackson remix.
You're a week ahead of schedule.
Man, it ain't just Janet, though.
I got that song for Michael.
And I got my own remixes,
so you know,
excuse me if I seem
a little preoccupied.
Whatever you want to do with it,
now's your chance to do it.
Okay.
Na-na-na-na-na, na
The snow comes down in June
Sometimes the sun goes
'round the moon
Yo, keep that going.
I'm gonna play something on it.
I see the passion
in your eyes
Sometimes
it's all a big surprise
'Cause there was a time
when all I did was wish
You'd tell me this was love
- It's not the way I hoped
- Loop that. Loop that.
Or how I planned
But somehow it's enough
And now we're standing
face-to-face
Isn't this world
a crazy place?
Just when I thought
our chance had passed
You go and save
the best for last
Yo, man, you realize
what you got with this girl?
Who this girl could be?
That's what I tried to tell you
since the day I signed her.
When I'm done with her record,
ain't gonna be nobody like her.
I done seen the future, man.
That was a'ight.
Just come back in right now.
Come back in.
R. Kelly wants to write
and produce your album?
- Can you believe it?
- You're gonna go platinum
right out of the gate.
Your whole world's about
to change, sis.
Okay, what I'm missing?
The hottest producer in
the music biz wants to work with you,
and you're acting like
you just lost a talent show.
I have no experience in the studio.
What if I mess up?
Stop worrying.
You're gonna be fine.
And hey, if things don't work out,
you'll make my life
a whole lot easier.
- How's that?
- By being a normal teenager
like me again.
And who knows? You might even
get a "B" or a "C" someday.
What?!
Hi.
- Hey. What's up?
- Y'all settled in?
Yeah, the label got me
a spot downtown
with our own kitchen,
jacuzzi, and a view.
That's good 'cause we're fitting
to change the game right now, girl.
- You ready?
- Yeah, I'm ready.
- You sure?
- You don't look ready.
You look nervous.
Is it that obvious?
Stop thinking you still
gotta prove something to me.
You're here 'cause you earned it.
You did your thing on the Mike,
and the pressure's on me now.
Know what I'm saying?
Now I gotta deliver.
All you gotta do is you just --
you just do what it is you do, baby.
Now, what i'm-a fitting to do
is i'm-a give that
soft voice of yours an edge.
All right, I'm gonna get you
to sound like...
Sound like --
well, I'm gonna get you
to sound just like mine,
you know -- street.
- You with it?
- Yeah, I'm with it.
All right, let's do it then.
You're rushing it, baby.
- Lay back a little.
- I just feel like I'm not on beat.
Forget the beat.
What matters is-- is--
is your flow.
You know what I'm saying? 'Cause
right now, you're forcing it.
But what you need to do
is just let it come naturally.
So try it again for me,
but this time,
what I want you to do is,
I want to just have fun with it.
You know what I'm saying?
Just have fun with it
like you was doing earlier,
and give me a little less perfection
and a little more of that sweet tone.
Just it make it more...
More 'liyah.
Okay.
I like that part.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
Where you can be like, "ah-ah-ah"
Yeah.
Wanna get something to eat
before you head back to the hotel?
Um, I don't know.
Come on, my treat.
Anything you want.
- Anything?
- Anything.
Okay.
What?
You had the choice
of the finest restaurants
in Chicago, and you chose here.
I'm sorry.
I'm kind of a pizza girl.
- Do you wanna leave?
- Nah, nah, it's cool.
It's-- it's--
It's perfect.
Hey, there.
- There you go.
- Thanks.
Thanks.
You know I did my homework
on you, right?
I seen you on "Star Search."
Oh, no, did you see me cry, too?
Mm-hmm.
Ain't nothing wrong with crying.
Your feelings show me who you are,
and that's important.
Besides, you were just 10 anyway.
I wanted to win so bad.
I want to win at everything,
every day, since I was a kid.
Music, basketball --
everything.
As I got older,
I realized that setbacks
can have an upside.
- Upside?
- Yeah.
I believe that, uh,
the depth of your struggle
determines the height
for your success.
I really believe that.
The thing that stuck me
about you is that, even at 10,
when other kids would've given up
'cause things didn't happen
as fast as they hoped,
you still stuck with it.
I love performing.
It's all I've ever wanted to do.
Same here.
Music...
Music saved my life, man.
I-I-I grew up in da' hood,
you know what I'm sayin'?
South side of Chicago,
single mother raising four kids.
- Where was your dad?
- Couldn't tell you.
Matter of fact, my mother was my dad.
She passed away
earlier this year. Cancer.
Yeah, it was tough growing up
in them projects.
We struggled, man.
There were days that nearly
broke my mother's soul.
Ain't nothin' like seeing
your own mother cry.
So when I tell you that music
literally saved my life,
I'm keeping it real with you.
Matter of fact, my mother's
favorite thing in the world
was to hear me sing.
- Sounds like my family.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
- That's good.
That's good.
You should use that.
Let it drive you.
That's what I do.
You know, I-I take the pain
from losing my mother,
and I try to --
I try to turn it
into something beautiful, you know?
Something that people
can connect to.
'Cause that's what
good music does, you know?
For three, four minutes at a time,
you can make somebody's life
seem just a little more better.
And that's a gift.
- That's so crazy.
- What?
My whole life, people told me
I had this gift.
I felt like I had to do
something with it.
- You know, make a difference.
- And you will.
Just a matter of time.
You sound pretty sure yourself.
Girl, I knew you were a superstar
the minute you walked into my studio.
You didn't even look at me when
I walked into your studio.
You ain't got to look at the sun
to know it's shining.
Let me know, let me know
When I feel what I feel
Sometimes it's hard
to tell you so
You may not be in the mood
To learn
what you think you know
There are times when I find
You want to keep
yourself from me
When I don't have
the strength
I'm just a mirror
of what I see
But at your best,
you are love
You're a positive motivating
force within my life
Should you ever feel the need
to wonder why
Let me know
Let me know
La-a-a-a-a, ah-ah-ah
How was that?
I don't even know what to say.
- I can do it again. I can do it better,
I promise.
- No, no, no.
You don't understand.
You --
You done nailed that.
With a hammer.
For real, like, like...
Every note, fluctuation,
and every breath you took was...
What?
...was perfect.
It was perfect, baby.
It was perfect, baby.
Keep that up.
Something elegant.
Yeah, I'm feelin'
this look right here.
- Right.
- It definitely fits our market.
Here we go.
Hello. Welcome.
Good afternoon. Diane.
John Mckinney with Jive.
Mark Jones. Also with Jive.
Kate is the stylist we brought in
to help craft the "Aaliyah" image.
- Hi. Diane.
- She works with some of our biggest acts.
- Great to meet you, Aaliyah.
- Hi.
So, let me show you
some ideas that we had.
- Mm-hmm.
- The look we're going for is kind of...
It's kind of like
a "diva glam," right?
You know what? We brought
a couple of ideas ourselves.
- Sure.
- So maybe we can mix them in
a little bit?
- No problem.
- Sure. Okay.
Oh!
- I'm not ready yet!
- It's me, babe. I just got here.
Robert?
Heard you don't like
anything they picked out.
They're not me.
We need an image
that's marketable, baby.
And I get that.
But these clothes are so far away
from who I really am,
people will think I'm fake.
I will feel fake.
Yeah.
The only time I wear
a dress or a skirt
is when I go to church.
I do jeans.
If Jive is spending so much time
on this "look,"
then at least make it unique,
you know?
Something that fits the sound
and feel of my music.
A'ight, well,
if I were to describe it,
I'd say the sound and the feel
of your music is...
...street.
Then why not give them that?
Now, that's just genius.
You approve?
Girl, you're looking dope!
Come here.
Come here. Look.
You're just missing one thing.
- Hold up. Hold up.
- Okay.
Try that.
There you go.
You like?
I do.
Hey, Aaliyah.
Uh, whoa.
Uh, we're ready for you.
You all set?
Yeah, we're good.
Can I come in?
You could at least wait
for me to answer.
Come on, Aaliyah, I didn't ask
before you had an album,
and I'm not gonna ask now.
Mom told me about your new look.
- Yeah, you like?
- Yeah, I'm feelin' it.
Yeah?
Now you're being extra.
So, what did the label think?
You know, I didn't think that Robert
was gonna back me up, but he did.
And I thought he was gonna
treat me like a kid.
But he's so amazing.
You know, he...
He and I talk about everything.
It's like we're best friends.
And is that all you are?
'Cause you sound like
you got a thing for him.
Why don't you mind your business?
But you are my business,
and I don't want you to get hurt.
- Get out.
- Aaliyah...
Get out of my room, Rashad!
Bless us, oh, lord,
for these thy gifts,
which we are about to receive
from thy bounty.
And thank you for this meal
that Diane
has so lovingly prepared,
and for all that is about
to happen for babygirl.
We celebrate her first single
being released tomorrow,
and we thank you
for all your blessings.
Through Christ our lord, amen.
- Amen.
- Amen.
Now let's eat!
What's a matter, babygirl?
You hardly said a word all night.
Are you okay?
You're not nervous, are you?
A little bit.
I can't lie.
I would be, too.
I've dreamt about this moment
for so long.
Tomorrow, my whole life
is about to change.
Our lives are about to change.
Now, when you're all rich
and famous,
you're not gonna forget about
your old grandma, are you?
Grandma, no.
Well, just to be sure...
That's the ring
that your mother gave you.
I know. Had it more than 50 years.
Now it's yours.
What're you doing?
Had it re-sized to fit you.
- I-I can't accept this.
- Shh!
Don't argue with your grandma.
This way,
no matter how far
your gift takes you,
I'll be right here.
Thank you.
Aaliyah!
This car's on its last legs.
Why would you want to fix it?
This car does its job
for this family.
Yeah, a bad one.
Aaliyah, come on! We're gonna be
late for the dentist.
Dentist, dentist, dentist.
She's a local girl, 15,
and reppin' the "d"
in a big way.
- Turn it up! Turn it up!
- What?
- Turn it up!
- ...Written and produced by R. Kelly
and hits record stores in two weeks,
and her first single
could be her first hit.
Listen to her sweet voice, people.
- I'm on the radio!
- Here's Aaliyah with "Back & Forth."
- You're on the radio!
- Aah!
Yeah!
- What's up, baby? How are you doing?
- Hey.
Thank you for coming. Come on in.
Have a seat.
Live in the studio,
the one and only Princess
of R&B, Aaliyah.
- Welcome to the show.
- Thanks for having me.
"Age Ain't Nothing But a Number"
went to number one
with no signs of slowing down.
You've created a-a whole new
sound yourself, right?
If you ask me, I believe that
"Age Ain't Nothing But a Number"
is actually redefining R&B
because it's R&B
from a hip-hop perspective.
And hip-hop is the sound
of Young America,
so it helps that it comes
from an artist
who is Young America.
Right. No doubt. It's real.
Yeah, and hip-hop is all about
keeping it real, so you know...
You know! Right.
So, how has your life changed?
You know, I get to, um, perform
at arenas in front
of thousands of people.
And the audience knows
every word of my songs.
Security does have to go with me
to places I've been going
my entire life.
That's always kind of crazy.
But, you know, I have the same
chores, same friends.
Shout out to my girl Keisha.
I know she's listening.
Um...
And, uh, when I'm not doing
stuff like this,
I'm hanging out with my family,
or they're on tour with me.
But you got that big money now, right?
So you gotta have some new pleasures.
This might sound kind of boring,
but I still like to do
the same things
that I did before I had this career.
- Okay, like what?
- Going to the mall near my house,
sneaker shopping at Foot Locker,
bussin' a grub at Little Caesars.
Hey, Little Caesars
is the bomb, right?
- I know, right?
- Tell me about your tour.
I am about to go to Europe
with Keith Sweat and Blackstreet
on the "Rhythm & Blues
Explosion" tour.
I'm about to go to places
I've always dreamt about.
And what about "Kells"?
W-W-Will "Kells" be
joining you on any dates?
- No.
- I understand that you two became
very close during this project.
Yeah, Rob and I are close --
we're very close.
So, all the stuff about you two
being romantically linked?
We are absolutely just friends.
- Hey, babe.
- Hey, Mr. Kelly.
I missed you.
I didn't miss you at all.
I hate this --
hate that we can't be together.
Hate pretending
that you're just my producer.
Me too.
Me too, babe, but, um...
It'd be better for both of us
if we just keep this on the low
for now, you know?
I get it.
Do you?
'Cause if the media finds out,
they're gonna have
a field day with it.
And ain't no tellin'
what could happen.
I don't care.
I only want to be with you.
I want to be with you,
too, 'liyah.
Whenever I'm not with you,
I don't even feel right.
It's like...
It's like I'm missing an arm
or a leg or nose or something.
You know, for real, sometimes --
sometimes, I can't even
concentrate on my own music.
I was afraid of this, you know.
I seen it happenin'.
I felt it inside, and...
I tried to fight it.
I did, but...
I can't keep fightin'
what I believe, man.
I believe we were made
for each other.
I do.
Otherwise, God wouldn't have
put you in my path,
and I've been feeling like this.
We gotta wait, babe.
Just a few more years.
18 feels like an eternity from now.
You did what?
Believe me, I can imagine
what you're thinkin'.
But I promise you, it is not that way.
- No, dad, stop!
- Mike! Mike!
- Get off of him!
- Stop it!
You need to calm down.
How am I supposed to stay calm?!
You hear what he just said?!
Aaliyah, what the hell is going on?
We got married.
But that's not even possible.
You're only 15 years old.
Did you lie on the marriage license?
Aaliyah?!
I love him.
Are you crazy?!
The man is almost twice your age!
So what?!
So you're still a child,
that's what!
You don't even...
And what the hell do you want
with a 15-year-old girl?!
We trusted you!
Man, I wish I could find
the words to make you understand.
- Understand?!
Understand how a grown man could
wanna be with a young girl?
With all due respect,
we don't get to choose who we love.
- Don't say it!
'Cause I bet that's what
you've been telling my daughter,
knowing that she's young enough...
- And naive enough.
...to believe it.
- This will be annulled.
- You cannot make us do that.
Oh, yes, we can.
It will be annulled,
and your relationship,
both personal
and professional, is over.
He is my husband!
- 'Liyah, maybe we better do as he says.
- No!
We love each other.
That's enough!
You'll do exactly what I say,
or he's going to prison.
- Daddy!
- Annulled, Aaliyah.
Stay away from my daughter,
or I'll have you charged
with statutory rape.
- You understand?
- I hate you!
You're ruining my life!
Come on, come on.
Do we understand each other?
Do we understand each other?!
Robert!
I hate you!
I hate both of you!
Oh, god.
Remember when you left?
Yeah, you had your own rules
about playing the game
And any day,
you could walk away
Feeling no pain
Now look at yourself
Yeah, you're all hung up
on somebody else
And in your eyes
I see all the signs
All the signs
Of the misery
All the signs of the misery
That you laid on me
Baby, baby
Didn't you know you'd have
to cry sometime?
Oh, didn't you know?
Didn't you know you'd have
to hurt sometime?
Didn't you know you'd have
to lose your pride?
Didn't anybody tell you
love had another side?
Oh, you used to be so proud
Now, your head's a little
lower and you walk slower
And you don't talk so loud
Now, you've gotten wise
you need to eat.
Yeah, you know how love
can build you up
I'm not hungry.
Sit down anyway.
Hmm?
So?
Okay.
You know how I am about my gumbo.
Just "okay"?
It's really...
Really, really good.
I still don't want any.
Being a good father ain't an easy job.
Hardest part are the times
I gotta do things I don't like,
to protect my family, protect you.
How is forcing Robert
out of my life protecting me?
He didn't hurt me.
You and mom did.
Aaliyah...
You and your brother
are the two most precious things
in the world to me and your mother.
It kills me to see you
in this much pain
and to know I caused it.
But I did it out of love.
And I'd do it again.
'Cause a father does what needs
to be done, no matter what.
And maybe it don't make sense now.
Maybe it never will.
But I love you.
Hey.
Hey.
Well, thanks for meeting me today.
You make it sound so official.
We -- we got to talk about
some business.
As you know, Atlantic records
is our distributor.
They want to meet in New York
to talk about your next album.
Do I have to be there?
Yeah, you have to be there.
It's your album.
Can't you go and meet with them
and just conference me in?
That wouldn't be a good look.
Look...
We gotta get your next record out
as soon as possible.
After the tour.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Your uncle called.
He's worried about you.
He's worried about my next album.
That too.
But Barry's not the only one.
We're all worried.
Why's everyone making
such a big deal about this?
What's the rush
to make another album?
'Cause it's you.
The Aaliyah I know, that little girl
who dreamed of a record deal
her whole life,
she doesn't do "downtime."
The Aaliyah I know
likes being in the studio.
You want a break, that's fine,
but be honest about it.
What's up?
Aaliyah, talk to me.
Did you like my last album?
Of course I did.
Me and over a million other people.
Then y'all should thank Robert.
It was his sound, his beats.
I must be the most successful
puppet in the world.
- Aaliyah.
- It's true.
No, it's not true.
Look, R. Kelly did his thing.
I'll give him that.
But I'm not giving him
all the credit.
- What're you talking about?
Robert created me.
- No.
Robert did what a producer
is supposed to do.
But that wasn't his voice
on "age."
That wasn't his vocal style
on "Back & Forth."
It's been your look
that's captivated millions
of young girls.
It's you in those videos.
Look, I know the music business,
and let me tell you.
It takes more than a great song
or some hot producer
to create a superstar.
It takes the right artist.
That's what Robert had in you.
That's what he saw when
you walked into that studio.
He saw Aaliyah.
And so did the rest of the world.
I'm worried that I'm gonna fail
without him.
I'm scared that this next album won't --
success or failure ain't measured
by record sales
or radio spins or grammys.
It is measured by you,
by what you got inside
and how you live up to what
you know you gotta do with it.
What was that for?
For being you.
Are you heading out?
Yep. Going to work.
You're going to work at this hour?
How are you getting there?
A car's coming to pick me up.
Don't worry.
I'm getting ready for the tour.
Oh, um, you know, I've been thinking.
I think I'm ready for a talent agent.
You know, it's not enough for me
to have my songs on a soundtrack.
I'm ready to act.
Think you can help me?
We'll arrange for some meetings
next time you're in L.A.
Cool.
Love you.
Sittin' in class
Trying to figure out
what it all means
'cause it's all great to me
So, give her some color.
Make her beautiful.
We need her show-ready in 40 minutes.
Thank you.
Hey, girl.
I'll be back in a little while, okay?
Trigonometry, huh?
My least favorite subject.
I've got an exam
as soon as I get back.
I was a whiz at math
when I was at school.
Just saying.
Oh, my god.
Oh, you do not need that right now.
You let me worry
about how you look.
You worry about trig.
I got you.
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop,
yeah, dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
Some rappers these days
diss the old school
Y'all should be ashamed
'cause without it,
you have no fame or your name
When hip-hop touched my life,
man, I knew I was blessed
But some of that trash
that's coming out now
I'm not impressed
It takes a lot more than
the average rhyme to move me
Y'all are overrated
like a Schwarzenegger movie
So you go be the last
action hero, and I'll be me
Dj vu the freak style
was born an emcee
Mom really flipped the script
for me
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
We're thinking hit-makers
like Rodney Jerkins,
Jermaine Dupri, Vincent Herbert.
Essentially use the same strategy
that you employed on Aaliyah's
first album with R. Kelly.
Hire writer/producers
with track records of success.
Stack the deck with proven talent.
Being Aaliyah's first album
went platinum,
we strongly believe we can get
any producer we want.
Great, then I'll start making
calls to see who's available.
I get your strategy,
and the producers that you guys
mentioned are amazing.
I'm sensing a "but."
They all have well-established sounds.
That's a plus, right?
If I wanted to sound
like everyone else.
You'll sound like money in the bank.
I'd rather sound like myself.
You should sound
like yourself, Aaliyah.
Who would you like to work with?
Tim and Missy.
Who?
Timbaland and Missy Elliott.
They're a production duo
out of Norfolk, Virginia.
Their demo's in my office.
What are their hits?
They don't have any.
At least let them do a song.
Actually, I want Timbaland
and Missy Elliott
to produce my entire album.
That's, uh...
That's a nonstarter.
Asking us to support Tim
and Missy as lead producers,
it's a --
it's a game of roulette.
I understand that you guys
are trying to help.
I do.
But how many
"flash in the pan" singers
do we see go down
on their follow-up album
because of a supposed hit-maker?
A lot.
The success of "Age"
wasn't just because
of the brilliant business strategy
that my uncle Barry put forth,
but it was also the magic
between two
creatively connected souls.
And from that magic
came a completely new sound.
That's what happens
when you go left
and everyone else is going right.
Timbaland and Missy Elliot
are like nothing
on the radio right now.
Babygirl, you really believe in them?
I do.
And I know that if you put us
in the studio together,
we are gonna create
something crazy.
Also, this is my album.
It's my career, and I think
that it should be my decision.
Hey.
Hey.
We're hearing that R&B
singer R. Kelly got married.
The platinum-selling artist,
writer, and producer
reportedly wed dancer Andrea Lee.
Apparently, the two met
while she auditioned
to be his backup dancer.
In other entertainment news,
Eddie Murphy's The Nutty Prof--
Aaliyah, your car is here.
Coming.
I say we play her the one
with the double-beat.
I'm worried it might be
too out there for her.
If Aaliyah wasn't down
to step outside the box,
we wouldn't be here.
You don't think
it got too much edge?
All I know is when she said
Missy and Tim, she meant --
Hey. What up, Aaliyah?
I'm cool.
Hey, girl.
- This is my brother, Rashad.
- What's up?
Rashad, this is Timbaland
and Missy Elliott.
Nice meeting you, everyone.
Rashad is my creative consultant.
He knows all the latest
about fashion, movies, music.
All right, all right.
Welcome to the lab, man.
Thanks, man.
I'm a big fan of yours.
Ah, I like this dude.
I want to play you something.
Okay.
Now, it's something
I been playin' with,
so if you ain't feeling it,
no offense.
Let me hear it.
So, whatcha think?
You hated it.
Look.
Don't take this the wrong way...
But y'all a little crazy.
True. He a lil' off.
Yo, really?
- You are, Timmy.
- Timmy?
He hates when I call him that.
- Can I call you Timmy?
- No, you can't.
Y'all think my tracks are whack.
Dope.
- That was dope.
- You mean...
Yeah.
So the stuff you were saying
about me being --
Oh, no, no, no, I meant all of that.
But after hearing that track,
I am convinced you guys are crazy.
In a good way.
Mm. So there's a good way?
Mm-hmm.
Y'all are exactly what I was looking for.
I knew y'all would bring it.
What's up?
It's just...
We never had, like,
a platinum recording artist
willing to rock with us like this.
To be honest,
we was a little worried
about livin' up to "Age."
I mean, you had R. Kelly
behind the board.
Yeah, well, I'm not gonna lie.
I was a little scared, too.
But we got to keep pushing,
no matter how scared we are.
This could be big for all of us.
And to keep it real with you...
I need y'all
just as much as y'all need me.
All right. Let's do this.
Oh! What did you think
I came here for?
Oh!
- That table over there.
- Yes.
Ryan Nichols. C.A.A.
- Diane.
- Sorry I'm late.
Thank you.
First off, I'm a big fan.
Really, your last album
was a game-changer.
So, what's up?
Well, I'm looking to take
my career to the next level.
You know, with the release
of my new album --
you want to make some moves.
- Exactly.
- Gotcha.
Off the top of my head,
I know I can get you a few parts
in some urban movies.
I was thinking more mainstream roles.
Like leads?
Look, I'm just gonna be frank with you.
It is extremely hard
for a black actress
to land leads in big studio movies.
It's just a real long shot.
Look, it's not fair, all right?
But unfortunately, it's the truth.
Whitney did it with "The Bodyguard."
Yeah, but Whitney isn't R&B
and hip-hop.
She's mainstream,
multi-Grammy winning artist.
I mean --
also, she had Kevin Costner,
one of the biggest stars
in Hollywood,
fighting for her, so...
Hey, how's --
how's the album coming?
"One in a Million," right?
Great. Mastering as we speak.
Good.
I don't think I have to tell you
how important a sophomore album is.
Usually, it means one of two things --
that the success of the first album
was either, you know, luck or --
or that an artist is here to stay.
Look, we understand
the music business.
I'm trying to break into film.
So, are you our guy or not?
Let's take it one step at a time.
How about that?
I don't know.
I don't want to do the same thing
that we did for the last album.
I want to do something different.
Mm-hmm. Like what?
I want to be inspired.
I want to find a stylist
that is creative enough
to come up with a look
that captures a moment.
You know? Captures me.
I know a guy. His name is Derek Lee.
- I'll call him.
- Yes.
- Yes. Okay.
- Okay? Okay. Okay.
And I had a thought
about your hair.
Mm. Yeah?
How about adding a little mystery?
Remember Veronica Lake?
She was a big movie star
in the '40s.
Yes. She was beautiful.
Yeah.
Well, she used to cover
one of her eyes with her hair.
Oh, yeah.
You want different, right?
I feel it.
Nothing wrong with a little mystery.
Oh!
That's right.
That's it. That's it.
What do you think,
if I had just a little...
Yeah.
Oh, look who's here.
- Yes, yes.
- How's it going, brother?
- Dude, you all right?
- Good.
Is this the man of the hour?
- Derek Lee.
- Hi. Aaliyah.
So, Eric told you
what I was going for?
Yes, he did.
And I think whenever you perform --
in concerts, in your videos, on TV shows --
wardrobe should be treated
like your co-star.
Now, I am a straight guy
from The East Village.
My mother is a fashion editor
at Essence.
So when I go and pick out gear,
I don't just want hot and sexy.
I want to create
the kind of look on a girl
that me and the boys
from the neighborhood
find really attractive.
I want to meet his mom.
- I want to meet his friends.
- Okay.
Now, I'm seeing you as, like,
a sexy female superhero,
Pam Grier, blaxploitation type.
Now, I know that you're very used
to your loose-fitting clothing,
but just please
keep an open mind on this one.
Wow!
Performing the brand-new hit
single from her sophomore album,
please welcome to the show:
Aaliyah.
I used to go out to parties
And stand around
'cause I was too nervous
To really get down
But my body
yearned to be free
I went off on the floor
So somebody would choose me
No more
standing upside the wall
Now I got myself together,
baby
And I'm having a ball
Long as your groovin'
There's always a chance
Somebody watchin'
Might wanna make romance
Move your body, ooh, baby
And dance all night
To the groovin'
Feel all right
Move your body, oh
And move your feet
'cause the deejay's groovin'
Oh, and it sounds so sweet
Come on
Baby, just party on and on
'cause this party is jumpin'
till the break of dawn
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby, baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby, baby
You can have me
when you want to, babe
This is such a live party,
baby
Goin' crazy
in this place tonight
And the feelin'
is oh so right
Yeah
All the fellas in here
are so fine
Now, a lot has changed
since the last time we spoke.
A little bit.
Your sophomore album,
"One in a Million,"
feels like album of the year.p
It's doing pretty well.
Now, here you go being all modest,
knowing full well that your reign
as Princess of R&B
is officially locked up.
You're a bona fide superstar now.
I mean, look at this.
It's "Aaliyah mania" outside.
Thanks so much to all the fans
who bought the new album.
It's gone double platinum
in the U.S.
I can't express
how much that means to me.
And another shout-out
to Timbaland and Missy Elliot.
Y'all did your thing
on this album.
With "One in a Million,"
you are now one
of the biggest names in music.
What's life like these days?
I'm definitely more comfortable
with the fame,
but I think I'm more humbled
by the amazing things
that are happening in my life.
- What's next for you?
- Honestly?
- Movies.
- Ah!
You heard it here first, peoples.
Aaliyah, thank you for stopping by.
Thank you for having me.
All right.
Aaliyah, ladies and gentlemen.
Game.
Are you stacking the deck?
Pay up, babygirl.
I got it.
- Hey.
- Hi.
- Ryan Nichols.
- Is Aaliyah home?
Aaliyah.
You do realize that
every agency in Hollywood
wants to sign her now.
But, hey, I'm the only one
here in Detroit
and in your living room.
So, if she signs,
what's your game plan?
Well, the idea is we get Aaliyah
into the right rooms,
with some of the most powerful
people in movies,
and a soundtrack.
She's not really interested
in being on another soundtrack.
Right, but this isn't
just another soundtrack.
- Do you remember that film "Anastasia"?
- Yeah.
Right, so, Fox is doing an
animated version with Meg Ryan.
I think having you
do the theme song would be huge.
And it would show Hollywood
you got range.
And you can make this happen?
I'd love to show you.
Is that a yes?
Okay.
Yes! Ha-ha!
Thank you, sir.
Thank you very much.
And thank you.
You won't regret this.
Ooh, babygirl, you look beautiful.
I actually like it.
I have to Mark this date
on the calendar.
My daughter in a dress.
You know, I still can't believe it.
I have just put on the dress
that I will be wearing
to perform at the Oscars!
At the Oscars.
Wow!
I am really nervous, mom.
Me, too.
How many people are gonna see this?
Oh, not many. Just about 50 million.
Singing "Journey to the Past"
from "Anastasia,"
nominated for best original song...
Thank you.
...ladies and gentlemen,
Aaliyah.
You got this!
Heart, don't fail me now
Courage, don't desert me
Don't turn back
now that we're here
People always say
Life is full of choices
No one ever mentions fear
Or how the road
can seem so long
How the world
can seem so vast
Courage, see me through
Heart, I'm trusting you
on this journey
To the pa-a-a-ast
Heart, don't fail me now
Don't fail me now
Courage, don't desert me
Courage, see me through
Home, love, family
I will never be complete
until I find you
He-e-ey
One step at a time
one hope, then another
Who knows
where this road may go?
Back to who I was
On to find my future
Things my heart
still needs to know
Yes, let this be a sign
Let this road be mine
Let it lead me to my past
Courage, see me through
Heart, I'm trusting you
to bring me home
At la-a-a-a-a-ast
At la-a-a-a-a-ast
You nailed it!
Yeah. Thanks.
She's gonna be a movie star, Lorenzo.
Mark my words.
Ryan, with all due respect,
almost every singer I've ever met
thought they had what it takes
to be a movie star.
So, what makes you any different?
Well, this studio
did over $400 million
on a movie co-starring Whitney Houston.
Now, I'm not sayin'
that I'm on her level.
But her music transcended color.
Because let's face it,
that's what music does.
And I'm willing to bet that
that had something to do
with Warner Bros
giving her that role.
Well, I've sold over 12 million records,
and 60% of my sales are international.
My fans aren't just in the U.S.,
and they ain't just black.
I'm telling you, casting her
in one of your movies
is gonna be the best decision
you ever made.
I'm the girl
you want to bet on, Lorenzo.
I succeed in everything I put my mind to.
I have a film I'm working on
with Joel Silver.
Might be a fit.
It's an action film starring Jet Li.
It's called "Romeo Must Die."
Uh, he was cute, and he was
definitely checking you out.
Can we talk?
Sure.
I'm worried about you.
You haven't had
a serious relationship since --
I'm focusing on my career right now.
Besides, love is overrated.
Aaliyah.
It's been five years.
You should be --
do you know how long it took
for me to get over him?
I understand why it had to end.
But understanding
doesn't make me feel any better.
When things ended with Robert,
I lost a piece of me.
No, you didn't.
Yes, mommy, I did.
And I'm scared of it happening again.
Aaliyah!
Aaliyah, over here! Over here!
Aaliyah, how does it feel
to be at the Hollywood premiere
of your first movie?
It feels amazing.
What attracted you to this role?
I was looking for the right part,
and "Romeo" was a perfect fit.
Trish's character is tough,
doesn't take crap from anybody,
and like me,
she's "street but sweet."
Where to from here?
Well, one of my favorite books
is being adapted into a movie,
so fingers crossed.
Let's go!
I can't believe you flew in
just for my birthday.
I know your schedule
must be insane.
Keisha, I wouldn't have
missed this for the world.
So, tell me what's going on
with you.
I got a year left at Wayne state,
and I think I'm gonna get
this internship
at a really cool design firm.
That's so awesome.
Well, it ain't as glamorous
as living on Central Park West.
What made you decide
to move to New York?
With all the movie stuff
you got going on,
I figured it'd be L.A.
Well, you know,
my family's from New York.
That's right. You were born there.
Yeah, so it's in my blood.
Got to feel good to be settled
back in one place.
Although, I am going
to a Roc-A-Fella party
in the Hamptons this weekend.
You should come with me!
Damn.
I got to stay in town
this weekend.
Okay. Forget the Hamptons.
I got you right now.
Let's dance!
If you wanna see me,
you can get your crew
We can take this thing down
on the dance floor
Hey, ladies, my Mercedes
is still on the lot
But you're still on the dock
Got the freaks on lock,
can I feel on the top?
The heat don't stop
this wheel on the block
Yo, I'm gonna get that first.
Yo, what --
Bounce!
Dame, it was an accident, man.
- Chill.
- You chill on your way back
to Manhattan.
How are we gonna get back
to Manhattan when we rode with Sean?
Y'all walk back, I don't care.
But y'all out of here.
Dame, man, we were just playin'.
Does this look
like a playground to you?!
We in a $7 million crib
rented by Roc-A-Fella records!
We're black!
We're being scrutinized!
So don't tell me to chill.
- Yo, we're sorry, man.
- Dude, I said bounce.
What y'all looking
all dumb in the face for?
You probably think I'm crazy.
Damon Dash, crazy? Mm.
Did those guys
really walk back to the city?
I don't know and I don't care.
We go back to seventh grade.
They know me.
And when it comes
to protecting family,
they also know how I can get.
Family? You were protecting a vase.
It wasn't about a vase,
it was about somebody
contacting the press
and putting that mess on Jay.
He's the biggest rap star
on the planet.
His name -- our name --
is a brand I got to protect,
regardless of those two
knuckleheads.
So if I got to be the one
no one wants to a problem with,
I'm cool with that.
Jay, Kareem, The Roc --
they matter.
Other than that, I don't care
what anybody thinks.
I got these guys on my team.
They've become brothers to me.
The love that I have for them...
It's bigger than any business
that we got going on.
To family.
To family.
I want to do so much more.
So, you got time, girl.
Says you.
You got like a hundred companies,
and you probably want
like a hundred more.
It's not about
the number of companies.
It's the challenge of going
from Harlem to Wall Street
that's exciting to me.
The climb, the chase.
You know what I'm saying?
Yeah.
Only problem is,
most people have agendas,
even if it's just
being near somebody rich,
powerful, or famous.
Yeah, that's the problem
with being a celebrity.
You get suspicious of people.
But at a certain point,
it gets simple.
It becomes about peace of mind.
Knowing people you do let in
have your back.
What?
How do you handle the girls?
Girls? I ain't got time
for no girls.
Come on, Dame.
Women must be throwing
themselves at you 24/7.
How do you separate the real
from the fake?
The ones who really want to be with you.
Especially knowing that
you could change their lives.
I mean, it's hard,
but being raised in Harlem,
you learn how to spot a come up.
- Mm.
- I'm not always right,
but, uh, my ability to peep game
is pretty tight.
Yeah, well, I'm from New York
and the "D," so...
- Ah, so you know how to peep game, huh?
- From the door.
If you tell anyone
what I'm about to tell you --
You're gonna deny it.
To the grave.
It does get lonely, though.
I can relate.
I haven't had a real
relationship in years.
Me, either.
Yeah, and all the success in the world
can't take the place of, uh...
A kiss from the man that you love.
Fine, I'll kiss you
if that's what this is about.
I wasn't fishing for a kiss.
Lord knows where your lips have been
with all them video hoes.
That's not even cool.
I'm just messing with you.
Yeah, yeah. Well,
you hurt my feelings, girl.
Whatever!
- What?
- Nothing.
Come on out with it.
Seriously, I want
to hear what you have to say.
You know, you kind of have a way
of expressing yourself
that can be a little...
aggressive.
I go off on people
when they do something stupid.
That's what I do.
And you're known for it.
But, Damon, a lion doesn't
have to roar to be a lion.
Even when he purrs,
the whole jungle
knows that he's the king.
So you're sayin' I don't
have to be to be a complete jerk
to get my point across?
I don't think
that you're a jerk at all.
So why are you pretending to be?
There's something special
about you, Ms. Aaliyah.
Yeah, you, too, Mr. Dash.
Love, can't picture life
without you in it
Our hearts beat the same,
are you in tune with it?
I beat it like I'm M.J.
When I do get it
Some others hide it
But they know
what to do with it
This kind of love
ain't no fairy tale
I'll wait on your ass,
but I ain't into chasing tail
So make a choice,
flip a quarter
Either heads or tails
However it lasts,
let me know how you feel
Love,
we can go the whole mile
We can keep it discreet
or we can profile
I ain't gotta question
your loyalty 'cause I know now
Whose side you're on
if she goes down
You independent, not a leach,
a freak between the sheets
What more can I ask for?
Say no more,
I got the passport
All the things
I've done for you lately
Baby
Didn't you know that
All the things I've done
for you lately
First thing, thank y'all
for coming through.
Has everyone got a drink?
We're gonna do a little t-toast.
Babygirl, I'm sure I speak for everyone
when I say that I'm very proud of you.
Congrats on winning a major role
in the next two --
not one, y'all hear me? --
The next two "Matrix" sequels.
Amazing.
You...
You're my best friend.
May whatever else you dream of
come to life.
To Aaliyah.
To Aaliyah.
Cheers.
- Whoo!
- Mmm!
Speech, speech, speech!
Mind if I have a word with you?
Yeah, sure.
- Hi, mama.
- Mm!
I love seeing you this happy.
But you don't approve.
Oh, in the beginning,
I had my doubts.
But after watching him
around you this past year,
he's been nothing but a sweetheart.
He definitely is that.
Oh, you two do seem about
as different as night and day.
It might seem that way to you,
might seem that way to most people.
But that's just 'cause they judge him
on the clothes that he wears
and the things that they hear.
If you knew dame the way I do,
you'd see just how similar we are.
But most importantly...
Dame loves me the way
you'd want a man to love me.
I love you, mom.
Aww. I love you, too.
- Oh!
- Ooh!
Ha-ha!
Wow!
You know her as
R&B and hip-hop royalty.
We know her
as someone with a huge heart,
who's always willing
to give back.
We are so thankful
for her financial donation,
but even more grateful
that she volunteered
to perform here tonight.
Please welcome to the stage
the Princess of R&B.
Give it up for Aaliyah!
How could the one
I gave my heart to
Break my heart so bad?
How could the one
who made me happy
Make me feel so sad?
Won't somebody tell me?
So I can understand
If you love me
How could you hurt me
like that?
How could the one
I gave my world to
Throw my world away?
How could the one
who said, "I love you"
Say the things you say?
How could the one
I was so true to
Just tell me lies?
How could the one
I gave my heart to
Break this heart of mine?
Tell me
How could you be
so cold to me
When I gave you everything?
All my love,
all I had inside
How could you
just walk out the door?
How could you
not love me anymore?
I thought we had forever
I can't understand
How could the one
I shared my dreams with
Take my dreams from me?
How could the love
that brought such pleasure
Bring such misery?
Won't somebody tell me?
Somebody tell me please
If you love me
How could you do that to me?
Tell me
You got "The Matrix"
and the "Sparkle" remake.
But we got to keep pushing the album.
Label's concerned.
"We Need a Resolution" didn't
get the traction we hoped for.
It stalled at 59.
Where are we at with VMAs?
I spoke to MTV this morning.
You're confirmed.
- Great.
- And Virgin agrees with us --
"Rock the Boat"
should be the second single.
So, we're still on for the video?
Took a little negotiating,
but we got we needed, yeah.
And Hype Williams is set to direct.
Your girl Fatima Robinson
will do choreography.
Are we still shooting in Miami?
Miami, a couple days in The Bahamas.
And I booked your stylist, Derek.
What about Eric?
Eric has a scheduling conflict,
but he's sending a friend
in his place.
Uh...his name is Chris Maldonado?
Yes. Chris is an amazing makeup artist.
We're ready for you now.
Oh, great.
All set?
Yeah, just about.
Were y'all able to get the catamaran?
- We got it.
- Dope.
This is gonna be so hot --
everything about this video,
from the choreography to the
styling to the location. Unh!
I love hearing you this excited.
Man, this is gonna be the best
music video I have ever done
because I'm taking it
to a whole 'nother level.
Babygirl, you already have.
In the year we've been together,
I've watched you grow
as a business person,
as an artist, and as a woman.
I hope the world sees me
the way you see me
because it feels like
all my dreams are coming true.
Trust me.
No one will be able to avoid it.
- This is it.
- Yeah.
So, what happens after this?
After the video?
No, after --
after all of it.
What do you want to happen?
All I know is that
you're the only woman I want.
I feel the same.
So let's not let our careers stop us
from spending time together anymore.
We're both really busy people, babe.
Look, if I got to fly
all the way across the country
just for a date night, I'm there.
Okay, it's settled.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
You mean a lot to me.
We mean a lot to me.
When I get back from this shoot,
things will be different.
It's time to change our priorities.
It's about us.
We're about to conquer the world, baby.
God, you're so beautiful.
God, I love you.
I love you, too.
I'll be back in a few days,
before you even know it.
Yeah?
You better come back to me.
You know I'll be thinking
about you every night.
- All night?
- Every night.
Bye, baby.
Sweet comic Valentine
You make me smile
with your heart
Don't change your hair
for me
- Not if you care for me
- Look at my baby girl on TV.
- She looks good, doesn't she?
- Stay, little Valentine
Sta-a-a-a-ay
Each day is Valentine
E-e-e-each day is Valentine
E-e-e-e-e-each day
is Valentine's
Da-a-a-a-ay
And I got a new client.
R. Kelly.
- You're kidding.
- I'm his new manager.
We made it official today.
Congrats, man, that's big.
- Yes. Yes.
- Fabulous.
- Where's your sister?
- In her room.
She on her way down?
I don't know.
She's practicing again.
Hey. Come here.
Here you go.
Tell her uncle Barry's here.
- R. Kelly?
- Yeah.
Wow!
So, um...
All the disappointment
with "Star Search"...
Well, she cried for two days,
but by day three...
Sometimes I wonder
where she gets "The Focus."
Well, she grew up with you singing.
Only I wasn't willing to put
my life on hold for a career.
Now, that little girl
upstairs -- she is all in.
- Now she wants acting lessons.
- Mm-hmm.
- Acting?
- She doesn't want to be put in a box.
She wants to do music and act
like Streisand and Cher.
- She wants to do it all.
- That's good. That's good.
All the more reason
why she'll do great in Vegas.
- Vegas?
- Yeah.
Gladys is doing five nights
at Bally's,
and she wants Aaliyah
to perform with her.
- Don't play with us, Barry.
- I'm not.
Look, just because Gladys and I
are divorced
doesn't mean that
she loves Aaliyah any less.
She wants her to do a solo
and maybe a duet to close the show.
All five nights.
What do you think, babe?
W-W-What --
I think it'll do wonders
for her confidence.
- Oh, yes.
- That's exactly why Gladys is doing this.
She loves that little girl.
We all love that little girl.
We love Gladys, too.
Just have fun out there.
Don't worry about missing a note.
Don't worry about that guy
in the audience
that might not be smiling.
When you out there, just love on them.
- "Love on Them," auntie Gladys?
- Mm-hmm.
I'm gonna tell you a secret,
something I learned
when I was just about your age,
performing with the pips.
The secret to delivering a great show,
the kind that folks are glad
they spent their hard-earned money on,
is to perform with love.
Baby, you gotta love that stage.
You gotta appreciate every person
in each one of those seats.
And you've got to never forget
that they could've been
somewhere else,
but they chose to hear and see you.
- Hold for one?
- Love to.
Thanks.
Now, if you remember that
and you love on that audience
from your heart,
they'll not only feel it,
but they're gonna want
to re-live that feeling.
Which is why your fans come
see you over and over again.
You know, when I told that promoter
that my little 11-year-old niece
wanted to be a part of the show,
they were concerned that you
were gonna crack under pressure.
Ladies and gentlemen...
You know what I told 'em.
Pressure makes diamonds.
- ...please give a warm welcome...
- And we are flawless diamonds,
- the perfect cut.
- to the incomparable empress of soul...
- The perfect color.
- ...Gladys Knight!
- You ready?
- Let's do this.
- Call me later.
- Bye, Keisha.
Bye.
Hey, babygirl.
So, what did they say?
What did they say?
Jive gave us a distribution deal.
Oh, this is so cool, uncle Barry!
This is beyond cool.
You know what this means?
You're gonna be rich?
It means now that we've got
distribution for blackground,
we can put out records
on whomever we want.
- You mean...?
- Yes.
For real?
For real.
Oh, my god. Oh, my god.
I got a record deal!
I got a record deal!
- Come on.
- Mm-hmm!
Make sure it's straight.
Don't you worry 'bout what I'm doing.
It's the Detroit high school
for the performing arts, mom.
Anybody could be in the audience!
And I don't know that?
When I'm introduced,
should I be introduced
as Aaliyah Dana Haughton
or Aaliyah Haughton?
Well, that's a good question.
What do you think, mom?
Mm. The simpler, the better.
So just... Aaliyah.
Yeah. Just Aaliyah.
Like Cher or Madonna.
Aaliyah.
Yeah.
- Why not? I like it.
- Yeah.
Looks good, grandma.
Mm-hmm. I know what I'm doing.
Whoa, let's give them another
round of applause, ladies and gentlemen!
Keisha.
I know you get nervous,
but you're gonna be great.
Now, go out there and kill it.
And our next performer needs
no introduction.
She's simply the one and only
Aaliyah!
Make some noise, ladies and gentlemen!
Hey, hey! Come on! Come on!
I want to see y'all dance!
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't they
just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
They say I'm crazy
I really don't care
That's my prerogative
They say I'm nasty
But I don't give a damn
Gettin' boys is how I live
Some ask me questions
Why am I so real?
But they don't understand me
I really don't know the deal
about my sisters
Trying hard to make it right
Not long ago,
before I win this fight
Sing!
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't they
just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
Whoo!
Come on! Get on your feet!
I want to see a move.
Uh! Uh! Uh-uh!
Yeah, where my girls at?
Where my girls at?
Come on, come on, come on!
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't they
just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
Everybody's talking
all this stuff about me
Why don't -- why don't
they just let me live?
I don't need permission,
make my own decisions
That's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
It's my prerogative
Whoo!
It's my prerogative
Yeah! Yes!
You just witnessed
the birth of a star,
ladies and gentlemen.
Whoo! My girl!
It's been so long.
It's like I don't even have
a record deal.
Uncle Barry doesn't
believe in me anymore.
- That's nonsense.
- Is it?
I mean, so far, I've only done
school talent shows and plays.
Which you kill every time,
like you did tonight.
Like that matters.
Uncle Barry has Jive.
Why does he need me?
How about your dad and I
call Barry tomorrow?
Actually, do you mind if I meet
with uncle Barry tomorrow
without you guys?
We're your managers.
It's our job to have
these types of conversations.
I know, mom, but...
Please?
Please?
- Hi.
- Hey, babygirl.
Didn't know you were passing by.
Is this a bad time?
- No. Not at all.
- What's up?
Will you be completely honest with me?
Most definitely.
What's --
what's on your mind?
Is everything okay?
Well, I haven't even really been
in the studio.
I-I understand if you guys
don't believe in me anymore.
So...
If you're not gonna make
my album, just tell me.
Aaliyah, you are so far off,
it's almost funny.
I am?
Yes.
I've just been waiting
for the right moment.
And I know it's been a long time,
but it has to be the right play.
I've been working one angle
since I signed you.
And I'm close -- real close,
but I can't tell you yet.
I'm gonna need you to trust me.
Can you do that?
Hmm?
- Yes.
- It's me against the world
I want to talk to you about
my niece, man -- Aaliyah.
This again, man?
Can I -- can I celebrate
my album for a minute, please?
C-can I do that?
Damn.
I-I'm finally in a position
where I can produce anybody, man.
You know that.
So I don't understand how you're still
sweatin' me about working
with some kid.
Robert, if she was just some kid,
would I be coming at you like this?
I'm doing you a favor.
Favor, huh? Okay.
I'm only, like, the most
in-demand writer/producer
in the game right now, that's all.
Yeah, I know that.
I'm the one fielding the calls.
Look,
just listen to the girl sing for you.
If you feel the same way afterwards,
I'll never mention the subject again.
Just go in there and be yourself
and everything will fine.
Be myself in front of R. Kelly?
Mom, he's, like, the king of R&B.
This is only the most important
audition of my entire life.
This ain't about R. Kelly.
This is about you.
If he doesn't see your talent,
that's on him.
But if you don't bring it,
it's on you.
- Babygirl.
- Hey.
Hey, how are you doing?
You made it.
Where's your mother?
Um, she's still in the car.
Rob.
Rob!
Rob, this is my niece Aaliyah.
Aaliyah, R. Kelly.
- It's an honor to meet you.
- Yeah, you too.
You know, Aaliyah's a huge fan of yours.
When I told her you agreed
to let her sing for you --
I don't mean to cut you off, man,
but i-I'm kind of crunching time here.
So, you know, if we could
move this along a bit.
Vocal booth's in there,
through that door.
There's some headphones
on the stand for ya.
Okay.
Um, right.
You know, you could be
a little friendly.
Man, you asked me to listen.
I'm listening.
You didn't say nothing
about friendly.
Why you acting like I ain't got
deadlines to meet.
You'll finish your Janet Jackson remix.
You're a week ahead of schedule.
Man, it ain't just Janet, though.
I got that song for Michael.
And I got my own remixes,
so you know,
excuse me if I seem
a little preoccupied.
Whatever you want to do with it,
now's your chance to do it.
Okay.
Na-na-na-na-na, na
The snow comes down in June
Sometimes the sun goes
'round the moon
Yo, keep that going.
I'm gonna play something on it.
I see the passion
in your eyes
Sometimes
it's all a big surprise
'Cause there was a time
when all I did was wish
You'd tell me this was love
- It's not the way I hoped
- Loop that. Loop that.
Or how I planned
But somehow it's enough
And now we're standing
face-to-face
Isn't this world
a crazy place?
Just when I thought
our chance had passed
You go and save
the best for last
Yo, man, you realize
what you got with this girl?
Who this girl could be?
That's what I tried to tell you
since the day I signed her.
When I'm done with her record,
ain't gonna be nobody like her.
I done seen the future, man.
That was a'ight.
Just come back in right now.
Come back in.
R. Kelly wants to write
and produce your album?
- Can you believe it?
- You're gonna go platinum
right out of the gate.
Your whole world's about
to change, sis.
Okay, what I'm missing?
The hottest producer in
the music biz wants to work with you,
and you're acting like
you just lost a talent show.
I have no experience in the studio.
What if I mess up?
Stop worrying.
You're gonna be fine.
And hey, if things don't work out,
you'll make my life
a whole lot easier.
- How's that?
- By being a normal teenager
like me again.
And who knows? You might even
get a "B" or a "C" someday.
What?!
Hi.
- Hey. What's up?
- Y'all settled in?
Yeah, the label got me
a spot downtown
with our own kitchen,
jacuzzi, and a view.
That's good 'cause we're fitting
to change the game right now, girl.
- You ready?
- Yeah, I'm ready.
- You sure?
- You don't look ready.
You look nervous.
Is it that obvious?
Stop thinking you still
gotta prove something to me.
You're here 'cause you earned it.
You did your thing on the Mike,
and the pressure's on me now.
Know what I'm saying?
Now I gotta deliver.
All you gotta do is you just --
you just do what it is you do, baby.
Now, what i'm-a fitting to do
is i'm-a give that
soft voice of yours an edge.
All right, I'm gonna get you
to sound like...
Sound like --
well, I'm gonna get you
to sound just like mine,
you know -- street.
- You with it?
- Yeah, I'm with it.
All right, let's do it then.
You're rushing it, baby.
- Lay back a little.
- I just feel like I'm not on beat.
Forget the beat.
What matters is-- is--
is your flow.
You know what I'm saying? 'Cause
right now, you're forcing it.
But what you need to do
is just let it come naturally.
So try it again for me,
but this time,
what I want you to do is,
I want to just have fun with it.
You know what I'm saying?
Just have fun with it
like you was doing earlier,
and give me a little less perfection
and a little more of that sweet tone.
Just it make it more...
More 'liyah.
Okay.
I like that part.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
Where you can be like, "ah-ah-ah"
Yeah.
Wanna get something to eat
before you head back to the hotel?
Um, I don't know.
Come on, my treat.
Anything you want.
- Anything?
- Anything.
Okay.
What?
You had the choice
of the finest restaurants
in Chicago, and you chose here.
I'm sorry.
I'm kind of a pizza girl.
- Do you wanna leave?
- Nah, nah, it's cool.
It's-- it's--
It's perfect.
Hey, there.
- There you go.
- Thanks.
Thanks.
You know I did my homework
on you, right?
I seen you on "Star Search."
Oh, no, did you see me cry, too?
Mm-hmm.
Ain't nothing wrong with crying.
Your feelings show me who you are,
and that's important.
Besides, you were just 10 anyway.
I wanted to win so bad.
I want to win at everything,
every day, since I was a kid.
Music, basketball --
everything.
As I got older,
I realized that setbacks
can have an upside.
- Upside?
- Yeah.
I believe that, uh,
the depth of your struggle
determines the height
for your success.
I really believe that.
The thing that stuck me
about you is that, even at 10,
when other kids would've given up
'cause things didn't happen
as fast as they hoped,
you still stuck with it.
I love performing.
It's all I've ever wanted to do.
Same here.
Music...
Music saved my life, man.
I-I-I grew up in da' hood,
you know what I'm sayin'?
South side of Chicago,
single mother raising four kids.
- Where was your dad?
- Couldn't tell you.
Matter of fact, my mother was my dad.
She passed away
earlier this year. Cancer.
Yeah, it was tough growing up
in them projects.
We struggled, man.
There were days that nearly
broke my mother's soul.
Ain't nothin' like seeing
your own mother cry.
So when I tell you that music
literally saved my life,
I'm keeping it real with you.
Matter of fact, my mother's
favorite thing in the world
was to hear me sing.
- Sounds like my family.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
- That's good.
That's good.
You should use that.
Let it drive you.
That's what I do.
You know, I-I take the pain
from losing my mother,
and I try to --
I try to turn it
into something beautiful, you know?
Something that people
can connect to.
'Cause that's what
good music does, you know?
For three, four minutes at a time,
you can make somebody's life
seem just a little more better.
And that's a gift.
- That's so crazy.
- What?
My whole life, people told me
I had this gift.
I felt like I had to do
something with it.
- You know, make a difference.
- And you will.
Just a matter of time.
You sound pretty sure yourself.
Girl, I knew you were a superstar
the minute you walked into my studio.
You didn't even look at me when
I walked into your studio.
You ain't got to look at the sun
to know it's shining.
Let me know, let me know
When I feel what I feel
Sometimes it's hard
to tell you so
You may not be in the mood
To learn
what you think you know
There are times when I find
You want to keep
yourself from me
When I don't have
the strength
I'm just a mirror
of what I see
But at your best,
you are love
You're a positive motivating
force within my life
Should you ever feel the need
to wonder why
Let me know
Let me know
La-a-a-a-a, ah-ah-ah
How was that?
I don't even know what to say.
- I can do it again. I can do it better,
I promise.
- No, no, no.
You don't understand.
You --
You done nailed that.
With a hammer.
For real, like, like...
Every note, fluctuation,
and every breath you took was...
What?
...was perfect.
It was perfect, baby.
It was perfect, baby.
Keep that up.
Something elegant.
Yeah, I'm feelin'
this look right here.
- Right.
- It definitely fits our market.
Here we go.
Hello. Welcome.
Good afternoon. Diane.
John Mckinney with Jive.
Mark Jones. Also with Jive.
Kate is the stylist we brought in
to help craft the "Aaliyah" image.
- Hi. Diane.
- She works with some of our biggest acts.
- Great to meet you, Aaliyah.
- Hi.
So, let me show you
some ideas that we had.
- Mm-hmm.
- The look we're going for is kind of...
It's kind of like
a "diva glam," right?
You know what? We brought
a couple of ideas ourselves.
- Sure.
- So maybe we can mix them in
a little bit?
- No problem.
- Sure. Okay.
Oh!
- I'm not ready yet!
- It's me, babe. I just got here.
Robert?
Heard you don't like
anything they picked out.
They're not me.
We need an image
that's marketable, baby.
And I get that.
But these clothes are so far away
from who I really am,
people will think I'm fake.
I will feel fake.
Yeah.
The only time I wear
a dress or a skirt
is when I go to church.
I do jeans.
If Jive is spending so much time
on this "look,"
then at least make it unique,
you know?
Something that fits the sound
and feel of my music.
A'ight, well,
if I were to describe it,
I'd say the sound and the feel
of your music is...
...street.
Then why not give them that?
Now, that's just genius.
You approve?
Girl, you're looking dope!
Come here.
Come here. Look.
You're just missing one thing.
- Hold up. Hold up.
- Okay.
Try that.
There you go.
You like?
I do.
Hey, Aaliyah.
Uh, whoa.
Uh, we're ready for you.
You all set?
Yeah, we're good.
Can I come in?
You could at least wait
for me to answer.
Come on, Aaliyah, I didn't ask
before you had an album,
and I'm not gonna ask now.
Mom told me about your new look.
- Yeah, you like?
- Yeah, I'm feelin' it.
Yeah?
Now you're being extra.
So, what did the label think?
You know, I didn't think that Robert
was gonna back me up, but he did.
And I thought he was gonna
treat me like a kid.
But he's so amazing.
You know, he...
He and I talk about everything.
It's like we're best friends.
And is that all you are?
'Cause you sound like
you got a thing for him.
Why don't you mind your business?
But you are my business,
and I don't want you to get hurt.
- Get out.
- Aaliyah...
Get out of my room, Rashad!
Bless us, oh, lord,
for these thy gifts,
which we are about to receive
from thy bounty.
And thank you for this meal
that Diane
has so lovingly prepared,
and for all that is about
to happen for babygirl.
We celebrate her first single
being released tomorrow,
and we thank you
for all your blessings.
Through Christ our lord, amen.
- Amen.
- Amen.
Now let's eat!
What's a matter, babygirl?
You hardly said a word all night.
Are you okay?
You're not nervous, are you?
A little bit.
I can't lie.
I would be, too.
I've dreamt about this moment
for so long.
Tomorrow, my whole life
is about to change.
Our lives are about to change.
Now, when you're all rich
and famous,
you're not gonna forget about
your old grandma, are you?
Grandma, no.
Well, just to be sure...
That's the ring
that your mother gave you.
I know. Had it more than 50 years.
Now it's yours.
What're you doing?
Had it re-sized to fit you.
- I-I can't accept this.
- Shh!
Don't argue with your grandma.
This way,
no matter how far
your gift takes you,
I'll be right here.
Thank you.
Aaliyah!
This car's on its last legs.
Why would you want to fix it?
This car does its job
for this family.
Yeah, a bad one.
Aaliyah, come on! We're gonna be
late for the dentist.
Dentist, dentist, dentist.
She's a local girl, 15,
and reppin' the "d"
in a big way.
- Turn it up! Turn it up!
- What?
- Turn it up!
- ...Written and produced by R. Kelly
and hits record stores in two weeks,
and her first single
could be her first hit.
Listen to her sweet voice, people.
- I'm on the radio!
- Here's Aaliyah with "Back & Forth."
- You're on the radio!
- Aah!
Yeah!
- What's up, baby? How are you doing?
- Hey.
Thank you for coming. Come on in.
Have a seat.
Live in the studio,
the one and only Princess
of R&B, Aaliyah.
- Welcome to the show.
- Thanks for having me.
"Age Ain't Nothing But a Number"
went to number one
with no signs of slowing down.
You've created a-a whole new
sound yourself, right?
If you ask me, I believe that
"Age Ain't Nothing But a Number"
is actually redefining R&B
because it's R&B
from a hip-hop perspective.
And hip-hop is the sound
of Young America,
so it helps that it comes
from an artist
who is Young America.
Right. No doubt. It's real.
Yeah, and hip-hop is all about
keeping it real, so you know...
You know! Right.
So, how has your life changed?
You know, I get to, um, perform
at arenas in front
of thousands of people.
And the audience knows
every word of my songs.
Security does have to go with me
to places I've been going
my entire life.
That's always kind of crazy.
But, you know, I have the same
chores, same friends.
Shout out to my girl Keisha.
I know she's listening.
Um...
And, uh, when I'm not doing
stuff like this,
I'm hanging out with my family,
or they're on tour with me.
But you got that big money now, right?
So you gotta have some new pleasures.
This might sound kind of boring,
but I still like to do
the same things
that I did before I had this career.
- Okay, like what?
- Going to the mall near my house,
sneaker shopping at Foot Locker,
bussin' a grub at Little Caesars.
Hey, Little Caesars
is the bomb, right?
- I know, right?
- Tell me about your tour.
I am about to go to Europe
with Keith Sweat and Blackstreet
on the "Rhythm & Blues
Explosion" tour.
I'm about to go to places
I've always dreamt about.
And what about "Kells"?
W-W-Will "Kells" be
joining you on any dates?
- No.
- I understand that you two became
very close during this project.
Yeah, Rob and I are close --
we're very close.
So, all the stuff about you two
being romantically linked?
We are absolutely just friends.
- Hey, babe.
- Hey, Mr. Kelly.
I missed you.
I didn't miss you at all.
I hate this --
hate that we can't be together.
Hate pretending
that you're just my producer.
Me too.
Me too, babe, but, um...
It'd be better for both of us
if we just keep this on the low
for now, you know?
I get it.
Do you?
'Cause if the media finds out,
they're gonna have
a field day with it.
And ain't no tellin'
what could happen.
I don't care.
I only want to be with you.
I want to be with you,
too, 'liyah.
Whenever I'm not with you,
I don't even feel right.
It's like...
It's like I'm missing an arm
or a leg or nose or something.
You know, for real, sometimes --
sometimes, I can't even
concentrate on my own music.
I was afraid of this, you know.
I seen it happenin'.
I felt it inside, and...
I tried to fight it.
I did, but...
I can't keep fightin'
what I believe, man.
I believe we were made
for each other.
I do.
Otherwise, God wouldn't have
put you in my path,
and I've been feeling like this.
We gotta wait, babe.
Just a few more years.
18 feels like an eternity from now.
You did what?
Believe me, I can imagine
what you're thinkin'.
But I promise you, it is not that way.
- No, dad, stop!
- Mike! Mike!
- Get off of him!
- Stop it!
You need to calm down.
How am I supposed to stay calm?!
You hear what he just said?!
Aaliyah, what the hell is going on?
We got married.
But that's not even possible.
You're only 15 years old.
Did you lie on the marriage license?
Aaliyah?!
I love him.
Are you crazy?!
The man is almost twice your age!
So what?!
So you're still a child,
that's what!
You don't even...
And what the hell do you want
with a 15-year-old girl?!
We trusted you!
Man, I wish I could find
the words to make you understand.
- Understand?!
Understand how a grown man could
wanna be with a young girl?
With all due respect,
we don't get to choose who we love.
- Don't say it!
'Cause I bet that's what
you've been telling my daughter,
knowing that she's young enough...
- And naive enough.
...to believe it.
- This will be annulled.
- You cannot make us do that.
Oh, yes, we can.
It will be annulled,
and your relationship,
both personal
and professional, is over.
He is my husband!
- 'Liyah, maybe we better do as he says.
- No!
We love each other.
That's enough!
You'll do exactly what I say,
or he's going to prison.
- Daddy!
- Annulled, Aaliyah.
Stay away from my daughter,
or I'll have you charged
with statutory rape.
- You understand?
- I hate you!
You're ruining my life!
Come on, come on.
Do we understand each other?
Do we understand each other?!
Robert!
I hate you!
I hate both of you!
Oh, god.
Remember when you left?
Yeah, you had your own rules
about playing the game
And any day,
you could walk away
Feeling no pain
Now look at yourself
Yeah, you're all hung up
on somebody else
And in your eyes
I see all the signs
All the signs
Of the misery
All the signs of the misery
That you laid on me
Baby, baby
Didn't you know you'd have
to cry sometime?
Oh, didn't you know?
Didn't you know you'd have
to hurt sometime?
Didn't you know you'd have
to lose your pride?
Didn't anybody tell you
love had another side?
Oh, you used to be so proud
Now, your head's a little
lower and you walk slower
And you don't talk so loud
Now, you've gotten wise
you need to eat.
Yeah, you know how love
can build you up
I'm not hungry.
Sit down anyway.
Hmm?
So?
Okay.
You know how I am about my gumbo.
Just "okay"?
It's really...
Really, really good.
I still don't want any.
Being a good father ain't an easy job.
Hardest part are the times
I gotta do things I don't like,
to protect my family, protect you.
How is forcing Robert
out of my life protecting me?
He didn't hurt me.
You and mom did.
Aaliyah...
You and your brother
are the two most precious things
in the world to me and your mother.
It kills me to see you
in this much pain
and to know I caused it.
But I did it out of love.
And I'd do it again.
'Cause a father does what needs
to be done, no matter what.
And maybe it don't make sense now.
Maybe it never will.
But I love you.
Hey.
Hey.
Well, thanks for meeting me today.
You make it sound so official.
We -- we got to talk about
some business.
As you know, Atlantic records
is our distributor.
They want to meet in New York
to talk about your next album.
Do I have to be there?
Yeah, you have to be there.
It's your album.
Can't you go and meet with them
and just conference me in?
That wouldn't be a good look.
Look...
We gotta get your next record out
as soon as possible.
After the tour.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Your uncle called.
He's worried about you.
He's worried about my next album.
That too.
But Barry's not the only one.
We're all worried.
Why's everyone making
such a big deal about this?
What's the rush
to make another album?
'Cause it's you.
The Aaliyah I know, that little girl
who dreamed of a record deal
her whole life,
she doesn't do "downtime."
The Aaliyah I know
likes being in the studio.
You want a break, that's fine,
but be honest about it.
What's up?
Aaliyah, talk to me.
Did you like my last album?
Of course I did.
Me and over a million other people.
Then y'all should thank Robert.
It was his sound, his beats.
I must be the most successful
puppet in the world.
- Aaliyah.
- It's true.
No, it's not true.
Look, R. Kelly did his thing.
I'll give him that.
But I'm not giving him
all the credit.
- What're you talking about?
Robert created me.
- No.
Robert did what a producer
is supposed to do.
But that wasn't his voice
on "age."
That wasn't his vocal style
on "Back & Forth."
It's been your look
that's captivated millions
of young girls.
It's you in those videos.
Look, I know the music business,
and let me tell you.
It takes more than a great song
or some hot producer
to create a superstar.
It takes the right artist.
That's what Robert had in you.
That's what he saw when
you walked into that studio.
He saw Aaliyah.
And so did the rest of the world.
I'm worried that I'm gonna fail
without him.
I'm scared that this next album won't --
success or failure ain't measured
by record sales
or radio spins or grammys.
It is measured by you,
by what you got inside
and how you live up to what
you know you gotta do with it.
What was that for?
For being you.
Are you heading out?
Yep. Going to work.
You're going to work at this hour?
How are you getting there?
A car's coming to pick me up.
Don't worry.
I'm getting ready for the tour.
Oh, um, you know, I've been thinking.
I think I'm ready for a talent agent.
You know, it's not enough for me
to have my songs on a soundtrack.
I'm ready to act.
Think you can help me?
We'll arrange for some meetings
next time you're in L.A.
Cool.
Love you.
Sittin' in class
Trying to figure out
what it all means
'cause it's all great to me
So, give her some color.
Make her beautiful.
We need her show-ready in 40 minutes.
Thank you.
Hey, girl.
I'll be back in a little while, okay?
Trigonometry, huh?
My least favorite subject.
I've got an exam
as soon as I get back.
I was a whiz at math
when I was at school.
Just saying.
Oh, my god.
Oh, you do not need that right now.
You let me worry
about how you look.
You worry about trig.
I got you.
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop,
yeah, dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
Some rappers these days
diss the old school
Y'all should be ashamed
'cause without it,
you have no fame or your name
When hip-hop touched my life,
man, I knew I was blessed
But some of that trash
that's coming out now
I'm not impressed
It takes a lot more than
the average rhyme to move me
Y'all are overrated
like a Schwarzenegger movie
So you go be the last
action hero, and I'll be me
Dj vu the freak style
was born an emcee
Mom really flipped the script
for me
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
It's in me, it's in you,
it's in my crew
Remember hip-hop, yeah,
dj vu
We're thinking hit-makers
like Rodney Jerkins,
Jermaine Dupri, Vincent Herbert.
Essentially use the same strategy
that you employed on Aaliyah's
first album with R. Kelly.
Hire writer/producers
with track records of success.
Stack the deck with proven talent.
Being Aaliyah's first album
went platinum,
we strongly believe we can get
any producer we want.
Great, then I'll start making
calls to see who's available.
I get your strategy,
and the producers that you guys
mentioned are amazing.
I'm sensing a "but."
They all have well-established sounds.
That's a plus, right?
If I wanted to sound
like everyone else.
You'll sound like money in the bank.
I'd rather sound like myself.
You should sound
like yourself, Aaliyah.
Who would you like to work with?
Tim and Missy.
Who?
Timbaland and Missy Elliott.
They're a production duo
out of Norfolk, Virginia.
Their demo's in my office.
What are their hits?
They don't have any.
At least let them do a song.
Actually, I want Timbaland
and Missy Elliott
to produce my entire album.
That's, uh...
That's a nonstarter.
Asking us to support Tim
and Missy as lead producers,
it's a --
it's a game of roulette.
I understand that you guys
are trying to help.
I do.
But how many
"flash in the pan" singers
do we see go down
on their follow-up album
because of a supposed hit-maker?
A lot.
The success of "Age"
wasn't just because
of the brilliant business strategy
that my uncle Barry put forth,
but it was also the magic
between two
creatively connected souls.
And from that magic
came a completely new sound.
That's what happens
when you go left
and everyone else is going right.
Timbaland and Missy Elliot
are like nothing
on the radio right now.
Babygirl, you really believe in them?
I do.
And I know that if you put us
in the studio together,
we are gonna create
something crazy.
Also, this is my album.
It's my career, and I think
that it should be my decision.
Hey.
Hey.
We're hearing that R&B
singer R. Kelly got married.
The platinum-selling artist,
writer, and producer
reportedly wed dancer Andrea Lee.
Apparently, the two met
while she auditioned
to be his backup dancer.
In other entertainment news,
Eddie Murphy's The Nutty Prof--
Aaliyah, your car is here.
Coming.
I say we play her the one
with the double-beat.
I'm worried it might be
too out there for her.
If Aaliyah wasn't down
to step outside the box,
we wouldn't be here.
You don't think
it got too much edge?
All I know is when she said
Missy and Tim, she meant --
Hey. What up, Aaliyah?
I'm cool.
Hey, girl.
- This is my brother, Rashad.
- What's up?
Rashad, this is Timbaland
and Missy Elliott.
Nice meeting you, everyone.
Rashad is my creative consultant.
He knows all the latest
about fashion, movies, music.
All right, all right.
Welcome to the lab, man.
Thanks, man.
I'm a big fan of yours.
Ah, I like this dude.
I want to play you something.
Okay.
Now, it's something
I been playin' with,
so if you ain't feeling it,
no offense.
Let me hear it.
So, whatcha think?
You hated it.
Look.
Don't take this the wrong way...
But y'all a little crazy.
True. He a lil' off.
Yo, really?
- You are, Timmy.
- Timmy?
He hates when I call him that.
- Can I call you Timmy?
- No, you can't.
Y'all think my tracks are whack.
Dope.
- That was dope.
- You mean...
Yeah.
So the stuff you were saying
about me being --
Oh, no, no, no, I meant all of that.
But after hearing that track,
I am convinced you guys are crazy.
In a good way.
Mm. So there's a good way?
Mm-hmm.
Y'all are exactly what I was looking for.
I knew y'all would bring it.
What's up?
It's just...
We never had, like,
a platinum recording artist
willing to rock with us like this.
To be honest,
we was a little worried
about livin' up to "Age."
I mean, you had R. Kelly
behind the board.
Yeah, well, I'm not gonna lie.
I was a little scared, too.
But we got to keep pushing,
no matter how scared we are.
This could be big for all of us.
And to keep it real with you...
I need y'all
just as much as y'all need me.
All right. Let's do this.
Oh! What did you think
I came here for?
Oh!
- That table over there.
- Yes.
Ryan Nichols. C.A.A.
- Diane.
- Sorry I'm late.
Thank you.
First off, I'm a big fan.
Really, your last album
was a game-changer.
So, what's up?
Well, I'm looking to take
my career to the next level.
You know, with the release
of my new album --
you want to make some moves.
- Exactly.
- Gotcha.
Off the top of my head,
I know I can get you a few parts
in some urban movies.
I was thinking more mainstream roles.
Like leads?
Look, I'm just gonna be frank with you.
It is extremely hard
for a black actress
to land leads in big studio movies.
It's just a real long shot.
Look, it's not fair, all right?
But unfortunately, it's the truth.
Whitney did it with "The Bodyguard."
Yeah, but Whitney isn't R&B
and hip-hop.
She's mainstream,
multi-Grammy winning artist.
I mean --
also, she had Kevin Costner,
one of the biggest stars
in Hollywood,
fighting for her, so...
Hey, how's --
how's the album coming?
"One in a Million," right?
Great. Mastering as we speak.
Good.
I don't think I have to tell you
how important a sophomore album is.
Usually, it means one of two things --
that the success of the first album
was either, you know, luck or --
or that an artist is here to stay.
Look, we understand
the music business.
I'm trying to break into film.
So, are you our guy or not?
Let's take it one step at a time.
How about that?
I don't know.
I don't want to do the same thing
that we did for the last album.
I want to do something different.
Mm-hmm. Like what?
I want to be inspired.
I want to find a stylist
that is creative enough
to come up with a look
that captures a moment.
You know? Captures me.
I know a guy. His name is Derek Lee.
- I'll call him.
- Yes.
- Yes. Okay.
- Okay? Okay. Okay.
And I had a thought
about your hair.
Mm. Yeah?
How about adding a little mystery?
Remember Veronica Lake?
She was a big movie star
in the '40s.
Yes. She was beautiful.
Yeah.
Well, she used to cover
one of her eyes with her hair.
Oh, yeah.
You want different, right?
I feel it.
Nothing wrong with a little mystery.
Oh!
That's right.
That's it. That's it.
What do you think,
if I had just a little...
Yeah.
Oh, look who's here.
- Yes, yes.
- How's it going, brother?
- Dude, you all right?
- Good.
Is this the man of the hour?
- Derek Lee.
- Hi. Aaliyah.
So, Eric told you
what I was going for?
Yes, he did.
And I think whenever you perform --
in concerts, in your videos, on TV shows --
wardrobe should be treated
like your co-star.
Now, I am a straight guy
from The East Village.
My mother is a fashion editor
at Essence.
So when I go and pick out gear,
I don't just want hot and sexy.
I want to create
the kind of look on a girl
that me and the boys
from the neighborhood
find really attractive.
I want to meet his mom.
- I want to meet his friends.
- Okay.
Now, I'm seeing you as, like,
a sexy female superhero,
Pam Grier, blaxploitation type.
Now, I know that you're very used
to your loose-fitting clothing,
but just please
keep an open mind on this one.
Wow!
Performing the brand-new hit
single from her sophomore album,
please welcome to the show:
Aaliyah.
I used to go out to parties
And stand around
'cause I was too nervous
To really get down
But my body
yearned to be free
I went off on the floor
So somebody would choose me
No more
standing upside the wall
Now I got myself together,
baby
And I'm having a ball
Long as your groovin'
There's always a chance
Somebody watchin'
Might wanna make romance
Move your body, ooh, baby
And dance all night
To the groovin'
Feel all right
Move your body, oh
And move your feet
'cause the deejay's groovin'
Oh, and it sounds so sweet
Come on
Baby, just party on and on
'cause this party is jumpin'
till the break of dawn
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby, baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby
Sexy baby, baby
You can have me
when you want to, babe
This is such a live party,
baby
Goin' crazy
in this place tonight
And the feelin'
is oh so right
Yeah
All the fellas in here
are so fine
Now, a lot has changed
since the last time we spoke.
A little bit.
Your sophomore album,
"One in a Million,"
feels like album of the year.p
It's doing pretty well.
Now, here you go being all modest,
knowing full well that your reign
as Princess of R&B
is officially locked up.
You're a bona fide superstar now.
I mean, look at this.
It's "Aaliyah mania" outside.
Thanks so much to all the fans
who bought the new album.
It's gone double platinum
in the U.S.
I can't express
how much that means to me.
And another shout-out
to Timbaland and Missy Elliot.
Y'all did your thing
on this album.
With "One in a Million,"
you are now one
of the biggest names in music.
What's life like these days?
I'm definitely more comfortable
with the fame,
but I think I'm more humbled
by the amazing things
that are happening in my life.
- What's next for you?
- Honestly?
- Movies.
- Ah!
You heard it here first, peoples.
Aaliyah, thank you for stopping by.
Thank you for having me.
All right.
Aaliyah, ladies and gentlemen.
Game.
Are you stacking the deck?
Pay up, babygirl.
I got it.
- Hey.
- Hi.
- Ryan Nichols.
- Is Aaliyah home?
Aaliyah.
You do realize that
every agency in Hollywood
wants to sign her now.
But, hey, I'm the only one
here in Detroit
and in your living room.
So, if she signs,
what's your game plan?
Well, the idea is we get Aaliyah
into the right rooms,
with some of the most powerful
people in movies,
and a soundtrack.
She's not really interested
in being on another soundtrack.
Right, but this isn't
just another soundtrack.
- Do you remember that film "Anastasia"?
- Yeah.
Right, so, Fox is doing an
animated version with Meg Ryan.
I think having you
do the theme song would be huge.
And it would show Hollywood
you got range.
And you can make this happen?
I'd love to show you.
Is that a yes?
Okay.
Yes! Ha-ha!
Thank you, sir.
Thank you very much.
And thank you.
You won't regret this.
Ooh, babygirl, you look beautiful.
I actually like it.
I have to Mark this date
on the calendar.
My daughter in a dress.
You know, I still can't believe it.
I have just put on the dress
that I will be wearing
to perform at the Oscars!
At the Oscars.
Wow!
I am really nervous, mom.
Me, too.
How many people are gonna see this?
Oh, not many. Just about 50 million.
Singing "Journey to the Past"
from "Anastasia,"
nominated for best original song...
Thank you.
...ladies and gentlemen,
Aaliyah.
You got this!
Heart, don't fail me now
Courage, don't desert me
Don't turn back
now that we're here
People always say
Life is full of choices
No one ever mentions fear
Or how the road
can seem so long
How the world
can seem so vast
Courage, see me through
Heart, I'm trusting you
on this journey
To the pa-a-a-ast
Heart, don't fail me now
Don't fail me now
Courage, don't desert me
Courage, see me through
Home, love, family
I will never be complete
until I find you
He-e-ey
One step at a time
one hope, then another
Who knows
where this road may go?
Back to who I was
On to find my future
Things my heart
still needs to know
Yes, let this be a sign
Let this road be mine
Let it lead me to my past
Courage, see me through
Heart, I'm trusting you
to bring me home
At la-a-a-a-a-ast
At la-a-a-a-a-ast
You nailed it!
Yeah. Thanks.
She's gonna be a movie star, Lorenzo.
Mark my words.
Ryan, with all due respect,
almost every singer I've ever met
thought they had what it takes
to be a movie star.
So, what makes you any different?
Well, this studio
did over $400 million
on a movie co-starring Whitney Houston.
Now, I'm not sayin'
that I'm on her level.
But her music transcended color.
Because let's face it,
that's what music does.
And I'm willing to bet that
that had something to do
with Warner Bros
giving her that role.
Well, I've sold over 12 million records,
and 60% of my sales are international.
My fans aren't just in the U.S.,
and they ain't just black.
I'm telling you, casting her
in one of your movies
is gonna be the best decision
you ever made.
I'm the girl
you want to bet on, Lorenzo.
I succeed in everything I put my mind to.
I have a film I'm working on
with Joel Silver.
Might be a fit.
It's an action film starring Jet Li.
It's called "Romeo Must Die."
Uh, he was cute, and he was
definitely checking you out.
Can we talk?
Sure.
I'm worried about you.
You haven't had
a serious relationship since --
I'm focusing on my career right now.
Besides, love is overrated.
Aaliyah.
It's been five years.
You should be --
do you know how long it took
for me to get over him?
I understand why it had to end.
But understanding
doesn't make me feel any better.
When things ended with Robert,
I lost a piece of me.
No, you didn't.
Yes, mommy, I did.
And I'm scared of it happening again.
Aaliyah!
Aaliyah, over here! Over here!
Aaliyah, how does it feel
to be at the Hollywood premiere
of your first movie?
It feels amazing.
What attracted you to this role?
I was looking for the right part,
and "Romeo" was a perfect fit.
Trish's character is tough,
doesn't take crap from anybody,
and like me,
she's "street but sweet."
Where to from here?
Well, one of my favorite books
is being adapted into a movie,
so fingers crossed.
Let's go!
I can't believe you flew in
just for my birthday.
I know your schedule
must be insane.
Keisha, I wouldn't have
missed this for the world.
So, tell me what's going on
with you.
I got a year left at Wayne state,
and I think I'm gonna get
this internship
at a really cool design firm.
That's so awesome.
Well, it ain't as glamorous
as living on Central Park West.
What made you decide
to move to New York?
With all the movie stuff
you got going on,
I figured it'd be L.A.
Well, you know,
my family's from New York.
That's right. You were born there.
Yeah, so it's in my blood.
Got to feel good to be settled
back in one place.
Although, I am going
to a Roc-A-Fella party
in the Hamptons this weekend.
You should come with me!
Damn.
I got to stay in town
this weekend.
Okay. Forget the Hamptons.
I got you right now.
Let's dance!
If you wanna see me,
you can get your crew
We can take this thing down
on the dance floor
Hey, ladies, my Mercedes
is still on the lot
But you're still on the dock
Got the freaks on lock,
can I feel on the top?
The heat don't stop
this wheel on the block
Yo, I'm gonna get that first.
Yo, what --
Bounce!
Dame, it was an accident, man.
- Chill.
- You chill on your way back
to Manhattan.
How are we gonna get back
to Manhattan when we rode with Sean?
Y'all walk back, I don't care.
But y'all out of here.
Dame, man, we were just playin'.
Does this look
like a playground to you?!
We in a $7 million crib
rented by Roc-A-Fella records!
We're black!
We're being scrutinized!
So don't tell me to chill.
- Yo, we're sorry, man.
- Dude, I said bounce.
What y'all looking
all dumb in the face for?
You probably think I'm crazy.
Damon Dash, crazy? Mm.
Did those guys
really walk back to the city?
I don't know and I don't care.
We go back to seventh grade.
They know me.
And when it comes
to protecting family,
they also know how I can get.
Family? You were protecting a vase.
It wasn't about a vase,
it was about somebody
contacting the press
and putting that mess on Jay.
He's the biggest rap star
on the planet.
His name -- our name --
is a brand I got to protect,
regardless of those two
knuckleheads.
So if I got to be the one
no one wants to a problem with,
I'm cool with that.
Jay, Kareem, The Roc --
they matter.
Other than that, I don't care
what anybody thinks.
I got these guys on my team.
They've become brothers to me.
The love that I have for them...
It's bigger than any business
that we got going on.
To family.
To family.
I want to do so much more.
So, you got time, girl.
Says you.
You got like a hundred companies,
and you probably want
like a hundred more.
It's not about
the number of companies.
It's the challenge of going
from Harlem to Wall Street
that's exciting to me.
The climb, the chase.
You know what I'm saying?
Yeah.
Only problem is,
most people have agendas,
even if it's just
being near somebody rich,
powerful, or famous.
Yeah, that's the problem
with being a celebrity.
You get suspicious of people.
But at a certain point,
it gets simple.
It becomes about peace of mind.
Knowing people you do let in
have your back.
What?
How do you handle the girls?
Girls? I ain't got time
for no girls.
Come on, Dame.
Women must be throwing
themselves at you 24/7.
How do you separate the real
from the fake?
The ones who really want to be with you.
Especially knowing that
you could change their lives.
I mean, it's hard,
but being raised in Harlem,
you learn how to spot a come up.
- Mm.
- I'm not always right,
but, uh, my ability to peep game
is pretty tight.
Yeah, well, I'm from New York
and the "D," so...
- Ah, so you know how to peep game, huh?
- From the door.
If you tell anyone
what I'm about to tell you --
You're gonna deny it.
To the grave.
It does get lonely, though.
I can relate.
I haven't had a real
relationship in years.
Me, either.
Yeah, and all the success in the world
can't take the place of, uh...
A kiss from the man that you love.
Fine, I'll kiss you
if that's what this is about.
I wasn't fishing for a kiss.
Lord knows where your lips have been
with all them video hoes.
That's not even cool.
I'm just messing with you.
Yeah, yeah. Well,
you hurt my feelings, girl.
Whatever!
- What?
- Nothing.
Come on out with it.
Seriously, I want
to hear what you have to say.
You know, you kind of have a way
of expressing yourself
that can be a little...
aggressive.
I go off on people
when they do something stupid.
That's what I do.
And you're known for it.
But, Damon, a lion doesn't
have to roar to be a lion.
Even when he purrs,
the whole jungle
knows that he's the king.
So you're sayin' I don't
have to be to be a complete jerk
to get my point across?
I don't think
that you're a jerk at all.
So why are you pretending to be?
There's something special
about you, Ms. Aaliyah.
Yeah, you, too, Mr. Dash.
Love, can't picture life
without you in it
Our hearts beat the same,
are you in tune with it?
I beat it like I'm M.J.
When I do get it
Some others hide it
But they know
what to do with it
This kind of love
ain't no fairy tale
I'll wait on your ass,
but I ain't into chasing tail
So make a choice,
flip a quarter
Either heads or tails
However it lasts,
let me know how you feel
Love,
we can go the whole mile
We can keep it discreet
or we can profile
I ain't gotta question
your loyalty 'cause I know now
Whose side you're on
if she goes down
You independent, not a leach,
a freak between the sheets
What more can I ask for?
Say no more,
I got the passport
All the things
I've done for you lately
Baby
Didn't you know that
All the things I've done
for you lately
First thing, thank y'all
for coming through.
Has everyone got a drink?
We're gonna do a little t-toast.
Babygirl, I'm sure I speak for everyone
when I say that I'm very proud of you.
Congrats on winning a major role
in the next two --
not one, y'all hear me? --
The next two "Matrix" sequels.
Amazing.
You...
You're my best friend.
May whatever else you dream of
come to life.
To Aaliyah.
To Aaliyah.
Cheers.
- Whoo!
- Mmm!
Speech, speech, speech!
Mind if I have a word with you?
Yeah, sure.
- Hi, mama.
- Mm!
I love seeing you this happy.
But you don't approve.
Oh, in the beginning,
I had my doubts.
But after watching him
around you this past year,
he's been nothing but a sweetheart.
He definitely is that.
Oh, you two do seem about
as different as night and day.
It might seem that way to you,
might seem that way to most people.
But that's just 'cause they judge him
on the clothes that he wears
and the things that they hear.
If you knew dame the way I do,
you'd see just how similar we are.
But most importantly...
Dame loves me the way
you'd want a man to love me.
I love you, mom.
Aww. I love you, too.
- Oh!
- Ooh!
Ha-ha!
Wow!
You know her as
R&B and hip-hop royalty.
We know her
as someone with a huge heart,
who's always willing
to give back.
We are so thankful
for her financial donation,
but even more grateful
that she volunteered
to perform here tonight.
Please welcome to the stage
the Princess of R&B.
Give it up for Aaliyah!
How could the one
I gave my heart to
Break my heart so bad?
How could the one
who made me happy
Make me feel so sad?
Won't somebody tell me?
So I can understand
If you love me
How could you hurt me
like that?
How could the one
I gave my world to
Throw my world away?
How could the one
who said, "I love you"
Say the things you say?
How could the one
I was so true to
Just tell me lies?
How could the one
I gave my heart to
Break this heart of mine?
Tell me
How could you be
so cold to me
When I gave you everything?
All my love,
all I had inside
How could you
just walk out the door?
How could you
not love me anymore?
I thought we had forever
I can't understand
How could the one
I shared my dreams with
Take my dreams from me?
How could the love
that brought such pleasure
Bring such misery?
Won't somebody tell me?
Somebody tell me please
If you love me
How could you do that to me?
Tell me
You got "The Matrix"
and the "Sparkle" remake.
But we got to keep pushing the album.
Label's concerned.
"We Need a Resolution" didn't
get the traction we hoped for.
It stalled at 59.
Where are we at with VMAs?
I spoke to MTV this morning.
You're confirmed.
- Great.
- And Virgin agrees with us --
"Rock the Boat"
should be the second single.
So, we're still on for the video?
Took a little negotiating,
but we got we needed, yeah.
And Hype Williams is set to direct.
Your girl Fatima Robinson
will do choreography.
Are we still shooting in Miami?
Miami, a couple days in The Bahamas.
And I booked your stylist, Derek.
What about Eric?
Eric has a scheduling conflict,
but he's sending a friend
in his place.
Uh...his name is Chris Maldonado?
Yes. Chris is an amazing makeup artist.
We're ready for you now.
Oh, great.
All set?
Yeah, just about.
Were y'all able to get the catamaran?
- We got it.
- Dope.
This is gonna be so hot --
everything about this video,
from the choreography to the
styling to the location. Unh!
I love hearing you this excited.
Man, this is gonna be the best
music video I have ever done
because I'm taking it
to a whole 'nother level.
Babygirl, you already have.
In the year we've been together,
I've watched you grow
as a business person,
as an artist, and as a woman.
I hope the world sees me
the way you see me
because it feels like
all my dreams are coming true.
Trust me.
No one will be able to avoid it.
- This is it.
- Yeah.
So, what happens after this?
After the video?
No, after --
after all of it.
What do you want to happen?
All I know is that
you're the only woman I want.
I feel the same.
So let's not let our careers stop us
from spending time together anymore.
We're both really busy people, babe.
Look, if I got to fly
all the way across the country
just for a date night, I'm there.
Okay, it's settled.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
You mean a lot to me.
We mean a lot to me.
When I get back from this shoot,
things will be different.
It's time to change our priorities.
It's about us.
We're about to conquer the world, baby.
God, you're so beautiful.
God, I love you.
I love you, too.
I'll be back in a few days,
before you even know it.
Yeah?
You better come back to me.
You know I'll be thinking
about you every night.
- All night?
- Every night.
Bye, baby.