It’s hard to imagine now, but Destiny Fulfilled is an album many thought would never be released. After debuting in 1997, Destiny’s Child quickly became one of the biggest and last-standing girl groups by 1999, despite a few lineup changes. Following their first album as a trio, Survivor (2001), the demand for solo projects became too loud to ignore. The group embarked on a hiatus at the end of 2001, leading to solo albums from Kelly Rowland (Simply Deep, 2002), Michelle Williams (Heart to Yours, 2002, and Do You Know, 2004), and Beyoncé (Dangerously in Love, 2003). After each member’s independent success, many believed they would continue to forge their own paths. So, it was a shock when the R&B trio announced their new studio album, Destiny Fulfilled, in late 2004.
The reunion was glorious and achieved its two major goals: giving each member a moment to shine and bringing their complementary attributes to center stage, while spotlighting the growth and maturity the group experienced individually and collectively. Not only was the album massively successful, with millions of sales and accolades, but it also birthed some of the group’s most iconic moments. From their last BET Awards performance to Michelle “Bridgerton” Williams stealing the show on many tracks, the album remains a fan favorite and a testament to the sisterhood that the trio spotlights to this very day.
Since stepping out fully on their own in 2005, Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams have each carved out dynamic, individual legacies while staying connected to their shared roots. Beyoncé ascended to global superstardom, redefining pop culture with groundbreaking visuals, record-breaking tours, and an unmatched level of artistry and influence. Kelly Rowland has become a multi-hyphenate force, blending her chart-topping music career with acting roles, TV producing, and philanthropic ventures that amplify her voice across industries. Meanwhile, Michelle Williams has become an advocate and trailblazer in gospel music, using her platform to inspire conversations about mental health and faith, all while establishing herself as a Broadway theatre staple. Together, they remain a testament to the enduring power of Destiny’s Child and the ability to evolve while honoring their collective impact.
Here are some of the best moments from the group’s reunion 20 years ago:
Their Evolution of Style
Destiny’s Child always had a unique style, primarily designed by Beyoncé’s mom, Tina Knowles. Toward the end of the Survivor era, the trio began exploring high-fashion designers and more complementary looks, moving away from the matching uniform aesthetic. They leaned into this direction as the ladies matured and developed their own sense of style. This shift allowed each member to showcase their personality and highlight their differing body types in the most flattering way.
Reunion Interview + Performance on Oprah
In 2004, Destiny’s Child sat down with Oprah Winfrey for a heartfelt and revealing interview that became an iconic pop culture moment. The trio discussed their much-anticipated reunion and the release of their chart-topping album Destiny Fulfilled. The conversation delved into their growth as women, the challenges of navigating fame, and the strength of their sisterhood. Oprah’s platform elevated their narrative, giving fans an intimate look at the group’s evolution. From emotional performances to candid reflections, this interview remains a defining chapter in their legacy and a testament to their enduring impact on music and culture.
Their BET Awards Performance + Serenade/Lap Dance Break
The lap dance still heard around the world. Shortly after announcing Destiny Fulfilled would be their last album, the trio performed their R&B hit “Cater 2 U” at the 2005 BET Awards. They switched it up with a breakdown, incorporating the album track “T-Shirt” before venturing into the audience and capturing three very lucky men. Michelle Williams grabbed NBA legend Magic Johnson, Kelly Rowland guided her “Dilemma” collaborator Nelly to the stage, and Beyoncé swayed with actor Terrence Howard like only she can. The trio serenaded the gentlemen, delivering a sultry—yet respectful—lap dance that left them grinning ear to ear. Clips of Terrence Howard blushing and flushed go viral on social media platforms at least once a year. The trio finished belting the song with an incredible vocal standout moment from Beyoncé before gracefully ending the performance.
Destiny’s Child Treks the Globe on the Destiny Fulfilled… and Lovin’ It
The Destiny Fulfilled… and Lovin’ It tour marked Destiny’s Child’s final global journey, commencing in Hiroshima, Japan, on April 9, 2005, and concluding in Vancouver, Canada, on September 10, 2005. The tour spanned 16 countries and 72 cities, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany. Setlist highlights featured chart-toppers like “Say My Name,” “Independent Women, Pt. 1,” “Bootylicious,” and “Survivor,” alongside solo performances such as Kelly Rowland’s “Dilemma,” Michelle Williams’ “Do You Know,” and Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love.” The group also performed “Stand Up for Love,” a ballad inspired by poverty-stricken children and families, which showcased their powerful vocal harmonies. Philanthropically, the group collaborated with McDonald’s to debut the World Children’s Day anthem, emphasizing their commitment to global children’s causes.
Michelle Williams Catches the Holy Ghost During “Through With Love”
Destiny Fulfilled was unique for Destiny’s Child because each singer got a moment to shine vocally. Beyoncé and Kelly would alternate between the first and second verses, and Michelle would always come in and anchor the song on the bridge. R&B bridges are often the peak and climax of the song, and Michelle held that title so well she became Michelle “Bridgerton” Williams. This was further proven by the group’s gospel-infused “Through With Love,” which found the perfect marriage between a classic breakup song and a spiritual hymn. Their nightly performance of the song on their Destiny Fulfilled… & Lovin’ It Tour was a taste of praise and worship for the audience, with Michelle leaving no vocal belt unturned.
Medley of Hits at World Music Awards
Toward the end of the Destiny Fulfilled run, Destiny’s Child delivered an unforgettable medley of their biggest hits at the 2005 World Music Awards, cementing their legacy as one of the most iconic girl groups in music history. Effortlessly blending powerhouse vocals, impeccable harmonies, and high-energy choreography, Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams captivated the global audience with chart-toppers like “Survivor” and “Say My Name.” They were also honored with the World’s Best Selling Female Group of All Time award. The performance doubled as a bittersweet moment, marking one of their last major appearances as a group before pursuing solo ventures. From their commanding stage presence to the electric crowd response, the trio proved why their influence endures across generations.
Super Bowl Reunion – The Sisterhood Continues
Destiny’s Child’s electrifying reunion at the 2013 Super Bowl halftime show was a masterclass in pop culture nostalgia and sheer star power. With Beyoncé at the helm of her solo career peak, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams emerged from beneath the stage to join her in a triumphant medley of their greatest hits. Their synchronized choreography, seamless harmonies, and palpable chemistry reignited the magic that had cemented them as one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. The performance, capped with fan favorites like “Bootylicious” and “Independent Women,” was not just a celebration of their legacy but a reminder of their timeless impact on music and pop culture.
Michelle Shines at the 2015 Stellar Awards and Beyonce and Kelly Join In on the Praise and Worship
In a radiant display that lit up the 2015 Stellar Awards stage, Destiny’s Child reunited with an electric performance of “Say Yes” that proved faith and fellowship can drive a crowd into a euphoric frenzy. Michelle Williams, stepping into the spotlight in front of gospel’s elite, was flanked by the unmistakable star power of Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland, all three harmonizing like no time had passed since their chart-topping days. Their spirited synergy and uplifting message reverberated across the auditorium, reminding fans that Destiny’s Child’s legacy is not just about pop hits but also about the unwavering bond that has carried them throughout their careers. It was a moment brimming with signature diva flair, balanced by a reverent nod to the gospel roots that first inspired their art—proof positive that when these ladies say “yes,” the world can’t help but tune in.
Destiny’s Child’s Coachella Surprise Proved the Ladies Are Still In Sync
Beyoncé’s historic 2018 Coachella set—dubbed “Beychella”—redefined the art of live performance, but one of its most electrifying moments came with the surprise reunion of Destiny’s Child. As Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams emerged to the pulsating beat of “Lose My Breath,” the trio reminded fans of their unmatched chemistry, vocal prowess, and sheer star power. Seamlessly blending nostalgia with contemporary flair, they delivered a medley of hits like “Say My Name” and “Soldier,” proving why they remain one of the most iconic girl groups in music history. The reunion wasn’t just a moment; it was a cultural reset, showcasing how Beyoncé’s roots in Destiny’s Child have continually shaped her trajectory as a global force while celebrating the enduring legacy of their sisterhood.
