Aaliyah Wasn't A Fan Of 'I Don't Wanna" Initially And Did Not Want To Record It

It’s hard to imagine Aaliyah passing on a song as smooth and emotionally resonant as “I Don’t Wanna,” but according to those close to its creation, the late R&B icon initially wasn’t a fan of the track and didn’t want to record it.

Written by a powerhouse team of Johntá Austin, Jazze Pha, Donnie Scantz, and Kevin Hicks, “I Don’t Wanna” was crafted with the intention of capturing vulnerability and strength—two qualities Aaliyah effortlessly embodied in her music. But despite the song's potential and polished production, it didn’t immediately resonate with her.

The reason? Aaliyah simply didn’t feel a connection to the song at first. Known for her strong sense of artistry and control over her sound, she was selective with the music she chose to attach her name to. Fortunately, the team behind the song remained persistent—and eventually, Aaliyah gave the track a chance.

Released posthumously as part of the “Next Friday” soundtrack and later appearing on her “Ultimate Aaliyah” compilation, “I Don’t Wanna” went on to become one of her most beloved slow jams. It climbed the Billboard charts and further cemented Aaliyah’s legacy as a timeless voice in R&B.

The story behind the song is a reminder of Aaliyah’s discerning ear and the collaborative efforts required to create lasting music. It’s also a testament to how even iconic artists can have doubts—and still deliver something unforgettable.

In hindsight, it’s clear: “I Don’t Wanna” became a classic, even if Aaliyah didn’t see it that way at first.