Aaliyah and her legacy continues to soar to new heights. On what would have been her 46th birthday. In doing so, the iconic singer was immortalized as part of Barbie’s Music Collector Series, joining the ranks of legendary artists like Gloria Estefan, Tina Turner, and Elton John. The Aaliyah Barbie doll became available for pre-order on January 16 and sold out within just 30 minutes—a testament to her enduring influence.
Inspired by her unforgettable “One in a Million” music video, the Aaliyah Barbie exudes the timeless coolness and effortless style the singer was known for. Dressed in a sleek black faux leather jacket, cargo pants, and signature ’90s accessories, the doll perfectly captures Aaliyah’s ability to blend streetwear with elegance. From her iconic hairstyle to the studded lace-up details on her outfit, every element pays homage to her trendsetting impact on fashion.
The design process was deeply personal, as Aaliyah’s brother, Rashad Haughton, collaborated with Mattel to make sure that the doll reflected her essence. In a heartfelt statement, Haughton shared childhood memories of his sister playing with Barbie dolls.
“She would make them sing, dance, and perform little concerts. It’s clear to me now that she was imagining dreams that became reality.”
Aaliyah’s groundbreaking career began at just 15 years old with her debut single, “Back & Forth,” which climbed the Billboard Hot 100 charts. Her impact only grew with hits like “Try Again” and her third album, Aaliyah, which solidified her as a pioneer in R&B, hip-hop, and pop music. By the time of her tragic passing in 2001 at just 22, Aaliyah had earned three American Music Awards, two MTV Video Music Awards, and five Grammy nominations. Krista Berger, Senior Vice President at Barbie, spoke about the significance of the tribute, saying:
“Like Aaliyah, we hope this Barbie inspires confidence, belief in yourself, and embracing who you truly are. She represents limitless potential and the power of dreaming big”.
Fans who missed the pre-order rush will have another opportunity to snag the collectible when it officially launches on January 26th via Mattel, Target, and select retailers. Currently priced at $55, the Aaliyah Barbie has already become a beloved item on resale platforms like eBay, where listings exceed $100.
This special tribute marks a powerful reminder of Aaliyah’s lasting contributions to music, fashion, and culture. From her iconic tracks to her unmistakable style, Aaliyah’s influence continues to inspire new generations. As her close friend Missy Elliott remarked, “This is a beautiful way to honor Aaliyah’s legacy”.
Nonetheless, the Aaliyah Barbie isn’t just a doll—it’s a celebration of an icon whose star will never fade. Fans and collectors alike are now able to hold a piece of her legacy, keeping the Princess of R&B’s spirit alive for years to come.
