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Aaliyah has been an artist I've grown up with, like an older sister.

I was a big fan of Aaliyah's. Growing up, my mom was a big fan of her music. When I grew to have my own taste in music, I really loved 'One In A Million.' That was my jam.

When I first met Aaliyah - it time for the world to hear this, I'm gonna give a little secret - I was in love with her.

I think Aaliyah has influenced artists like a Ciara.

Aaliyah revolutionized what it was to be a young black woman in America. She made it OK to be a nerd and to be a tomboy. She made it OK to wear leather and chains. She was the first black girl with an ombre. She was so far ahead of everything and everyone. It was just who she was. She was an innovator, but she didn't even realize it.

I won my first singing award with 'Auliya.'

I grew up listening to a lot of different types of music, and R&B in particular was something that I loved - Aaliyah, Usher, Alicia Keys, TLC.

Beyonce's the only contemporary artist that I really, really idolize.

I definitely want to play someone who's inspired me. I would love to play Aaliyah; it would be personal because I love her so much.

One thing that is constantly on my iPod is India Arie - I like her a lot; I listen to her a lot. I think she is just a spectacular artist.