Ever since it was first announced this past summer, fans have been divided over the upcoming posthumous release from the late Aaliyah. Now, in a recent interview with That Grape Juice, the man behind the album Barry Hankerson speaks on the controversial project.

Hankerson, who is the CEO of Blackground Records and uncle to the late singer, weighed in on the news of Timbaland, Missy Elliott and DMX’s disapproval of the album. He said that it’s unfortunate that they won’t get on board with the LP, but said that he wanted to take her work in a new direction with Drake and Noah “40” Shebib. He added that they’re still open to work with her past collaborators, citing Dame Dash’s support as evidence.

“Due to circumstances, we can’t control the emotional toll of healing of her legacy like others,” he said. “The intent is not to disrespect the family, nor do Blackground Records want to shed any bad light around Aaliyah’s legacy. We’d like to go in a different direction with the 16 tracks and have been more than open to work with past collaborators. So, Damon Dash – her ex fiance- is more than willing to assist Drake and Noah in producing the album.”

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Check out the full interview over at That Grape Juice.

RELATED:DMX Says Drake Is “Disrespectful” Because Of His Alleged Work On Aaliyah’s Upcoming Album