Two decades ago, the world had no idea just how much fire the ladies of Destiny’s Child had under their flashy sleeves with their soon-to-be-released third studio album.
As we celebrate this week its 19th anniversary, its title track ‘Survivor’ is today’s From The Vault pick.
As a way of reclaiming the narrative that had been making the rounds in the media after a total of three members had left or been fired from the group, its lead vocalist Beyonce decided to write a song that would let the naysayers know that neither nasty words nor petty insults could ever prevent them from chasing their destiny.
The Anthony Dent-produced track marked the start of the divas sharing the vocal load in a fairer way compared to what could be heard on their first two projects. Michelle Williams in particular shines during her intense bridge.
‘Survivor’ was a monumental chart success for the band, peaking at #2 for 7 consecutive weeks in the US and in the Top 10 of many European countries – including a #1 in the UK.
Darren Grant directed the song’s video. Presenting Kelly, Michelle and Bey as three survivors living on an uninhabited island, it was a not-so-subtle reference to the comparisons the press had been making between the group and the reality series of the same name – where contestants in isolated locations are pitted against each other and are voted off every week.
This visual houses some of the most iconic DC3 looks, from the cut-out castaway dresses, their fur two pieces and of course their military dance sequence outfits. Oh how we adore the early 2000’s!
And that, dear friends, is how you turn the tables around and successfully bring it back to the music. After this release, the girls were finally able to move on from the unfortunate ending of DC4 and focus on turning the definitive incarnation of Destiny’s Child into a blueprint for every aspiring band out there.
Today, thanks to their blazing solo endeavours, the children of destiny are as seasoned as ever – as seen with their “Beychella” segment.
It would be a lie if we said we haven’t been dreaming about some sort of more robust reunion; whether for a tour, an EP or all of the above. Stranger things have happened right?
Anyhow, in the meantime we’ll be blasting ‘Survivor’ and its parent album with our fist up in the air.
BONUS: Check out Kelly Rowland’s latest in-studio feature for Red Bull Studios by clicking here.