Destiny's Child

Biography

Destiny's Child was an American R&B girl group that became one of the best-selling female musical groups of all time. The final and most recognized lineup consisted of Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams. The group sold over 60 million records worldwide in their career.

Formation and Early Years

The group formed in Houston, Texas, in 1990 under the name Girl's Tyme, originally consisting of Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, LaTavia Roberson, and LeToya Luckett. After years of performing in the underground music scene, they were signed to Columbia Records in 1997 and changed their name to Destiny's Child. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1998 and featured the hit single "No, No, No Part 2".

Breakthrough and Lineup Changes

The Writing's on the Wall

Destiny's Child achieved mainstream success with their second album, "The Writing's on the Wall," released in 1999. The album sold over eight million copies in the United States and featured the number-one singles "Bills, Bills, Bills" and "Say My Name". The song "Say My Name" won two Grammy Awards in 2001. The album is considered their breakthrough, launching them into pop culture stardom.

New Members

In early 2000, amid the success of "The Writing's on the Wall," LaTavia Roberson and LeToya Luckett were replaced by Michelle Williams and Farrah Franklin. Franklin left the group after a few months, solidifying the final trio lineup of Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams. The internal conflict and lineup changes brought significant media attention to the group.

Trio Success

Survivor

In 2001, the trio released their third album, "Survivor." The public interpreted the album's themes as a response to the group's recent turmoil. "Survivor" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and featured the hit singles "Independent Women Part I," "Survivor," and "Bootylicious". The title track "Survivor" won a Grammy Award. The album sold over 15 million copies worldwide.

Hiatus and Solo Projects

Following the release of a holiday album, "8 Days of Christmas," in late 2001, the group announced a temporary hiatus to pursue solo careers. During this time, all three members released solo albums with varying degrees of success.

Final Album and Disbandment

Destiny Fulfilled

The trio reunited in 2004 to release their final studio album, "Destiny Fulfilled." The album featured the singles "Lose My Breath" and "Soldier". It sold over eight million copies worldwide. The album was noted for a more mature R&B sound and for showcasing the vocal growth of each member.

Disbandment

During their 2005 "Destiny Fulfilled... and Lovin' It" world tour, the group announced that they would be disbanding to pursue individual careers in music, film, and theater. They released a greatest hits album, "#1's," in 2005. Destiny's Child has reunited for special performances, including the 2013 Super Bowl halftime show and the 2018 Coachella festival.