"One in a Million" | ||||
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Single by Aaliyah | ||||
from the album One in a Million | ||||
A-side | ||||
Released | November 12, 1996 | |||
Recorded | 1996[1] | |||
Studio | Pyramid (Ithaca) | |||
Genre | ||||
Length | 4:30 | |||
Label | ||||
Songwriter(s) | ||||
Producer(s) | Timbaland | |||
Aaliyah singles chronology | ||||
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Music video | ||||
"One in a Million" on YouTube |
"One in a Million" is a song recorded by American singer Aaliyah for her second studio album of the same title (1996). It was written by both Missy Elliott and Timbaland with the latter producing the song. It was released to Rhythmic contemporary radio as the third single from One in a Million by Blackground and Atlantic Records on November 12, 1996. Musically, the song is an R&B and club ballad with trip hop and drum and bass influences. While Lyrically, it is about the narrator (Aaliyah) professing her love for a man whom she identifies as being her "one in a million".
Upon its release, it was met with generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising the song's innovative production. "One in a Million" was a moderate commercial success, peaking at number 25 on the US Hot 100 Airplay chart and number one on the Hot R&B Airplay chart. Released as a double A-side single with "If Your Girl Only Knew" in the United Kingdom, the song peaked at number 15 on the UK Singles Chart. "One in a Million" was nominated for Best R&B/Soul Single – Female at the 1998 Soul Train Music Awards.
An accompanying video for "One in a Million" was directed by Paul Hunter, and it depicts Aaliyah in various futuristic settings as she mingles with her crush. The video also featured cameo appearances from Timbaland, Missy Elliott, and singer Ginuwine, who stars as one of her leading men. The video received critical acclaim, with many critics comparing the video to various sci-fi films.