Timbaland’s production on the 2001 album set the stage for beat-driven alternative R&B. The use of space, silence, and off-grid hi-hats has become standard in trap and lo-fi R&B. Even Beyoncé, on songs like "Blow" and "Haunted," echoes the experimental spirit of Aaliyah .

Production and collaborators

: Much of the recording took place at Sing Sing Studios in Australia. Aaliyah balanced a grueling schedule, filming during the day and recording vocal tracks at night.