Crews 
Normani dropped her new sexy and sensual single ‘Wild Side‘ on Friday, and fans have been debating whether the Cardi B assisted track samples the classic Aaliyah track ‘One In a Million.’
While Normani and her team have said the song isn’t a “direct sample” of the track, Aaliyah’s home base producer/friend, Timbaland has acknowledged the very distinct similarities in the two songs–and now so has Aaliyah’s uncle and former label head, Barry Hankerson has as well.
Hankerson revealed to TMZ that it would have been “more honorable” if Normani sought formal approval to sample ‘One in a Million,’ but he still gives his blessing.
“I will not stand in the way of something that brings to light the incredible staying power of Aaliyah,” he said. “So in that light, wishing Normani well with the song and overall career. God bless. I think Aaliyah would be pleased.”
“I believe that Aaliyah would be very supportive of a young Black woman that chose to emulate her music and style.”
Timbaland took to Instagram to offer his co-sign as well.
.@Timbaland singing along to and praising “Wild Side” on his Instagram story.❤️🔥 pic.twitter.com/MVtdmXPIKM
— Normani Updates (@NormaniUpdate) July 16, 2021
As fans know, Aaliyah’s uncle has remained very protective of her music since her passing. The majority of her catalog still remains off all streaming services while fans have begged for years for them to be released to the streaming services.
Meanwhile, Normani’s ‘Wild Side’ has crossed over 12 million views on YouTube since its arrival Friday.
Take a listen to both tracks below and you decide!
