Aaliyah Dana Haughton—Detroit’s own daughter, known as the Princess of R&B—continues to inspire generations more than two decades after her passing. Her legacy in music, fashion, and culture remains a source of pride and influence, especially for her hometown of Detroit. On January 16, 2025, her 46th birthday, Mattel has released a Barbie Music Collector doll honoring Aaliyah, offering Detroiters and fans a powerful tribute to her lasting impact.
This release resonates deeply with Detroit, a city that has long been a hub of Black excellence and artistry. Aaliyah’s ability to blend musical genius with a unique sense of style made her a symbol of innovation. For many young Black women in Detroit, her journey from local talent shows to global superstardom remains a beacon of inspiration.
The collaboration between Mattel and Aaliyah’s brother, Rashad Haughton, ensures authenticity. Rashad worked closely with Barbie’s design team to capture every detail, from her signature swoop bang to her iconic fashion choices. The doll’s design reflects her look in the “One in a Million” music video, a moment that showcased her stylistic evolution. Aaliyah’s Detroit roots and her journey to becoming an international icon make this release especially meaningful for her hometown.
Rashad Haughton shared memories of Aaliyah’s love for Barbie dolls as a child. “I can vividly remember my sister playing with her favorite Barbie dolls for hours when we were kids. She would make them sing, dance, and perform little concerts,” he said. Those moments of imagination foreshadowed her ability to captivate audiences with her performances. Starting her career at just 15 years old, Aaliyah transformed childhood dreams into a reality that continues to inspire millions.
Detroit shaped Aaliyah’s artistic foundation, and her love for her city was evident throughout her life. From performing locally to becoming a global icon, Detroit’s resilience and creativity influenced her work. When it comes to the city, this Barbie doll is a reminder of one of Detroit’s brightest stars.
This tribute serves as a reflection of Aaliyah’s ability to empower others. “Inspiring confidence, belief in yourself, and embracing who you truly are is the essence of Barbie. My sister would be ecstatic to see her legacy celebrated this way,” Rashad said. Aaliyah’s fashion, sound, and spirit continue to shape new generations of artists, and the Barbie doll embodies her influence.
Aaliyah’s style evolved into an iconic blend of masculine and feminine elements. Her look in the “One in a Million” video, featuring leather ensembles and her signature hairstyle, marked a pivotal moment in her career. The Barbie doll’s design reflects this shift, symbolizing her growth as an artist and the lasting impact of her image. Rashad’s involvement ensures the doll represents not just her fashion but the spirit she embodied.
For Detroit’s Black community, this release is more than a collector’s item. It celebrates a hometown hero whose legacy uplifts and inspires. Aaliyah’s contributions to R&B and hip-hop bridged gaps between genres, creating a sound uniquely hers. With hits like “Back & Forth,” “Are You That Somebody?” and “Try Again,” she showed a versatility few could replicate. Her work earned accolades including three American Music Awards, two MTV Video Music Awards, and five Grammy nominations. Yet, her impact is most felt in the way she empowered her fans to embrace individuality.
Krista Berger, senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls at Mattel, highlighted the significance of this release. “We hope the Aaliyah Barbie serves as a powerful reminder to her loyal fans and Barbie collectors everywhere that, like Aaliyah, they can unlock their limitless potential and achieve anything they set their minds to,” Berger said. This doll represents more than just a memory of Aaliyah; it stands as a testament to her enduring influence on culture and creativity.
The Barbie Music Collector Series has previously honored legends like Gloria Estefan, Elton John, and Stevie Nicks. Adding Aaliyah to this lineup highlights her status as a cultural icon. Her ability to merge music, fashion, and authenticity set her apart during her lifetime and solidified her place in history. This release ensures her story continues to inspire young girls who see themselves reflected in her journey.
Available starting January 16 through retailers like Mattel Shop, Walmart, and Amazon, the Aaliyah Barbie doll offers a connection to a beloved artist. For Detroiters, it’s a moment of pride, honoring one of our own while sharing her story with the world.
The release of the Aaliyah Barbie doll on her birthday is a fitting tribute to an artist whose influence has transcended time. It not only celebrates her iconic style and musical achievements but also reinforces her role as a cultural icon. As Rashad Haughton said, “My sister would be ecstatic to see her legacy celebrated this way.” His words remind us that Aaliyah’s impact goes far beyond her music—it is a legacy of confidence, self-expression, and limitless potential.
For Detroit, this release is a celebration of a life that continues to shape the culture. Aaliyah’s story remains a testament to resilience, creativity, and vision.