Missy Elliott is honoring the memory her late friend and collaborator Aaliyah with a touching tribute on what would have been her 39th birthday.
The superstar rapper penned a heartfelt note about Babygirl, explaining why she’s still touched by her caring nature. “Aaliyah so many people ❤️ your Style & Music,” she wrote. “I wish they all got a chance to meet you to see how CARING you were to EVERYONE you met! I CAN STILL HEAR YOU LAUGH & me you @Timbaland joking😌we MISS YOU so much but I know you are surrounded by ANGELS 4 your BDAY😇🎂🍰 WE LOVE U.”
Their frequent collaborator Timbaland also celebrated the day: “Happy Born Day!!! 🌹#rip#babygirl” he wrote.
Aaliyah Dana Haughton was born on Jan. 16, 1979. Following a brief but promising career full successful singles like “Back & Forth,” “4 Page Letter,” “Are You That Somebody?,” and “Try Again,” the singer died in a tragic plane crash in 2001 at the age 22.
Rest in peace, Babygirl.