The Writing's On the Wall

Editors’ Notes Destiny’s Child’s second and final album to feature the original lineup turned them into the leading group of contemporary R&B. The women sound more sassy and self-assured in their vocals than they did on the group’s debut. “So Good,” “Bills, Bills, Bills,” and “Bug a Boo” were the first of the group’s female empowerment anthems, which would become their signature in the years to come. Although Beyonce was already beginning to be seen as the group’s standout star, the quartet’s vocal chemistry elevates “If You Leave.” The album’s two big hits represent exactly what the group was trying to accomplish at the time. “Jumpin’, Jumpin’” is a Beyonce original that aligns itself with the dizzying club jams of Missy Elliott and Aaliyah. Still, the album’s centerpiece is “Say My Name,” a passionate and urgent performance that still stands as one of the most memorable R&B songs of the ‘90s.