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Anyone who's seen the stunning Beyonce Knowles can tell that she was destined for stardom. Born in Texas to Tina and Matthew Knowles, Beyonce has often cited her close family and roots as both a source of strength and a reality check during her meteoric rise to fame. As a founding member of the multi-platinum girl group Destiny's Child, the photogenic Beyonce quickly caught the eye of the nation. After weathering several staff shifts, Destiny's Child hit their stride as a trio with their second record, The Writings On the Wall. Produced by Jermaine Dupri and Shek'spere, nearly every track on the disc went to #1. The truly innovative production showcased the trio's flawless harmonies in catchy singles like "Say My Name" and "Jumpin' Jumpin,'" where the sassy rhythm tracks skitter around the vocals for innovative pop perfection. Destiny's Child also stood out for their empowering aesthetic?in the world of female R&B where girls are often regulated to singing about what they'd do for their man, Destiny's Child took pleasure in laying down what their man had to do for them. After Destiny's follow-up Survivor also went multi-platinum, Beyonce Knowles knew it was time for her to break out. In 2002, she rocked a hot duet with Jay-Z, "'03 Bonnie and Clyde," that quickly became a summer radio staple. With all the industry anticipation, it's no surprise that Beyonce's 2003 debut full-length Crazy In Love was a smash hit, topping the US and UK singles and album charts simultaneously, a feat of dominance nearly unprecedented since the British invasion of the 1960's. The album was full of special guests, from reggae star Sean Paul to Outkast rapper Big Boi and Hova himself. Despite its phenomenal success, the critics thought the album played it too safe. Released on her birthday this year, Beyonce's Neptunes -produced sophomore B'Day, has been hailed as the adventurous, irresistible offering everyone hoped she'd make. With class, talent and looks to spare, Beyonce Knowles isn't going anywhere but up. Common misspelling: noles, nole, noels

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