The acronym may stand for Rhythm and Blues, but dismiss any notions of 12-bar guitar bands full of men of a certain age moaning about what they found when they woke up this morning. Destiny's Child would like it to be known that they have had to struggle to get where they are today. Clearly, this is a group prepared to suffer for their art. But it has all been worth it.
Appearances can be deceptive, however.
Their staccato singing blends the speedy delivery of rap and the warbling melodiousness of soul. The album's influence cannot be overstated. Elliott and Timbaland's influence can be heard everywhere in modern chart music, from the jerky pop of Britney Spears to the two-step garage of Craig David and the complex beats of Aphex Twin. The UK dance scene has been open in its admiration of the dynamic duo. This has not escaped Elliott.