Cue the Record Presents Vinyl Listening Session 035: Aaliyah

Aaliyah emerged in the 1990s as one of the most influential voices in contemporary R&B, bringing together smooth vocals, understated confidence, and a sound that helped redefine the genre. From her early work to her groundbreaking collaborations with Timbaland and Missy Elliott, Aaliyah continually evolved as an artist, embracing unconventional production, futuristic textures, and a vocal style that was as effortless as it was distinctive.

At the center of Aaliyah’s artistry was her ability to make restraint feel revolutionary. Her music balanced vulnerability with independence, pairing intimate songwriting with innovative rhythms and minimalist production. Blending R&B, hip-hop, and electronic influences, she challenged the conventions of mainstream music and helped shape a new sonic direction for the genre. Her self-titled third album, released in 2001, reflected this artistic evolution, revealing an increasingly experimental sound and a vision that extended beyond the boundaries of contemporary R&B.

Though her life and career were tragically cut short in 2001, Aaliyah’s influence continues to shape generations of artists across R&B, pop, and hip-hop. Her approach to melody, production, and visual identity helped establish a blueprint for the modern R&B artist, while her music remains as compelling today as when it first appeared. More than two decades later, her legacy endures as a testament to an artist who was constantly pushing forward, building a sound defined by innovation, quiet confidence, and a vision entirely her own.

Event Details

4:30 PM— Doors Open
5:00 PM — Listening Session Start
Post-spin — Open convo/discussion
Event will conclude no later than 8:00 PM

Guests receive tickets for two complimentary wine pours (or sparkling water) and a raffle entry to win a copy of the record on vinyl. This is a 21+ event.

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/12/us/cue-the-record-nyc-vinyl-listening-club.html

_________

NOTE: ALL TICKET SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE REFER TO OUR REFUND POLICY HERE

We understand that ticket prices can sometimes prohibit entry, and that’s never what we want. For students, seniors, or any guests for whom price is a barrier—if you’d like to attend with a discounted ticket or have a circumstance where you don’t have the capacity to pay the ticket price at all, email us at contact@cuetherecord.org. You're still welcome here.