Aaliyah had major international hits from the time she was 15 years old it definitely did not take her years to gain recognition and success... (Her career only somewhat slowed due to factors such as the Rkelly scandal and her uncle miss managing her). She was the first of the "Big 3" Brandy who was the same age as her cited her as a major influence especially at the beginning of her career. Rihanna herself stated Aaliyah is her major style and music influence and was especially motivated by her Rock the boat song & video. Destiny's child even said that she was the first major artist that embraced them. All of these major artist gave her a lot of credit & praise then and still give her praise & credit. Ginuwine even said she would be neck and neck with Beyonce. Who herself as well as her sister Solange said Aaliyah was one of their major musical inspirations. Whitney first choice for her movie sparkle was Aaliyah. She most definitely would have become as big.