From 'Blessed Assurance' to 'Bootylicious': Michelle Williams' Musical Path

Jun 20

Written By Janice Jacobs // EEW Magazine Online

Grammy Award-winning singer Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child has deep roots in gospel music, having grown up singing hymns and spirituals. Her journey from the sacred sounds of "Blessed Assurance" to the chart-topping hits like "Bootylicious" with the greatest girl group of all times is both interesting and at times controversial.

In an interview with NPR, the star of Broadway’s Death Becomes Her: The Musical recounted how she soared on the wings of gospel music to reach the top of the charts as an R&B diva.

“I started off in the church. My mom made us go to church seven days a week—it seemed like it,” said the 44-year-old, who grew up attending St. Paul Church of God in Christ in Rockford. “But once I got older and knew that I needed something to anchor me, I really began to enjoy developing my faith and spirituality in the church.”

Destiny's Child performing at the Super Bowl half time show in 2013 (Photo Credit: Reuters)

When asked to hone in on the story of her transition from the local sanctuary to worldwide arenas, Williams said it all began back in her college days with one life-changing phone call.

“I did a few years at Illinois State University, so I really thought I was going to be, like, someone’s prosecuting attorney, or I wanted to go into forensic psychology. It was going to be one of the two. And then, in my last semester, I get a call from a friend of mine,” she shared.

This friend was about to go on tour with then red-hot boy band 98 Degrees and R&B superstar Monica. Upon hearing the news, Williams replied, “Well, if Monica needs a background singer, tell her to call me.” Once she threw her hat in the ring, the ball started rolling. Williams’ friend tipped her off that Monica was holding auditions in Atlanta. She flew out on a “buddy pass,” showed up, sang a hymn, “Blessed Assurance,” and got the gig.

Following that big leap forward in her career, the “Say Yes” songstress got a call from Tina Knowles, mother of Destiny’s Child lead singer Beyoncé, informing her that the group was looking for girls to fill vacancies.

According to Williams, she auditioned with “a good old Negro Spiritual,” titled, “Walk With Me”—and the rest is history.

“We got from there to ‘Bootylicious’,” said Williams, referencing one of Destiny’s Child’s biggest hits.

Though the singer’s mother, Anita Williams (née Washington), did not approve of secular music at the time, Williams said her success won Mom over. “She got an Escalade and a new house,” which helped her quickly overcome her hesitation.

Williams’ journey from gospel to R&B may have been fraught with challenges and controversies, especially from her Pentecostal upbringing. But her ability to navigate these two worlds with grace, integrity and humor has made her a beloved figure in both gospel and mainstream music.

About The Gospel Beat:

"The Gospel Beat" is a dedicated space within EEW Magazine Online for music lovers and faithful followers alike, where the vibrant world of Gospel music takes center stage. As the latest addition to EEW Magazine, a leading voice for Black Christian women since 2007, this column offers a rhythmic blend of news, insights, and updates from the heart of the Gospel scene. From the latest releases and interviews to behind-the-scenes stories and personal accounts, "The Gospel Beat" connects you to the pulse of the genre and the artists who uplift spirits through their music. Celebrate faith, culture, and the power of Gospel with us as we bring you closer to the sounds and souls that inspire devotion across generations. Stay connected to remain informed about the latest developments in Gospel music and upcoming events.