Entertainment
Michelle Williams: From Destiny’s Child to Solo Success
It’s been nearly 25 years since American singer and actress Michelle Williams joined girl band Destiny’s Child, quickly rocketing to fame with the release of ‘Survivor’ in 2001.
It was to be a wild ride for the star alongside her fellow singers Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland.
The trio became known for their iconic matching outfits during this era, and when we sat down with Williams, she explained it was not the cushy designer popstar life you’d expect at the start.
“At the time, before Destiny’s Child really, really blew up, the unfortunate thing was that a lot of designers would not dress Destiny’s Child,” she tells marie claire Australia.
“So, Beyoncé’s mother, with her background designing clothing (being a seamstress and having that kind of training), she would literally have to get a budget from the record label and go to a fabric store.”
Given the sky-high success of the band, it’s not surprising that designers came crawling back for the distinct opportunity to dress one of the biggest acts of the early 2000s.
“That’s really how things happened. Then, you know, certain designers started to be like ‘oh, okay’,” she explains. “Most of the time a collection would have three or four pieces in the same collection.
“So, it was really cool, because I don’t like certain things that Kelly does or Beyoncé liked certain things, so it all worked out. We never had to fight or anything.”
Anyone with sisters will know what a blessing that truly was.
We’re chatting to Michelle on a park bench in Sydney’s Botanic Gardens. It’s a sunny day, and she looks chic in mustard yellow and black, floral power suit and her Uggs. She’s in Sydney to film a new Uber One commercial with a slightly controversial storyline.
In the commercial, Williams finds herself in a park where she thinks members of the public are recognizing her as the international singing, acting, podcasting superstar she is. However, it turns out that they don’t actually recognise her. It’s a self-deprecating play on some of the more negative commentary Williams gets about being the less well-known member of Destiny’s Child.
We ask Williams why she decided to sign on for this tongue-in-cheek campaign.
“Hopefully it shuts people up,” she laughs, adding “just joking”.
“The thing about social media that I’ll say, you see everything and everyone has access to you. Because I engage with people, sometimes I’ll run into some, kind of, not so kind comments,” she explains.
“I either block them or just keep it moving and respond to those that are nice and complimentary. Not saying that you live life for compliments, right, because everybody has an opinion. If something is constructive, criticism wise, I can handle that,” she explains.
“I think I’m in a place in my life where I’ve endured a lot. So stuff like this doesn’t get to me. I can play it up. It’s ok to make fun of ourselves. It is absolutely fun. Kelly Clarkson, you know, ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’.”
She adds that she is personally a fan of Uber One, a membership program offering discounts on food delivery and rideshares. “I showed them [the production team] my actual savings like, ‘I’m an Uber One girl’,” she says.
Since Destiny’s Child, Williams has gone on to have a successful solo career, stint on Broadway and she now runs her own mental-health directed podcast Checking In with Michelle Williams. She’s spent time in the bright heat of the spotlight, but she’s also had the opportunity to live a (somewhat) normal life.
“Time away…,” she reminisces. “It’s so funny because one of the lines in this Uber One commercial, I say ‘I was in one of the most iconic girl groups and nobody recognizes me’. It’s so cool,” she says.
“I learned how to maneuver. I walk down these [Sydney] streets since I’ve been here…I haven’t been here in a while. I feel like the younger people, they’re too young to know. And then some of the people my age are like, ‘That’s not her walking down the street’.”
Williams says that she’s learned to love the quieter moments of her life, as they refuel her for when it’s time to be ‘on’. “I just think of everything as a blessing,” she says. She uses the example of her time in Sydney, where she’s been filming the commercial despite suffering from seasonal allergies.
“What kept me going yesterday [through my allergies], was, ‘This is awesome, this is so much fun, everyone is beautiful, everybody’s fun, everybody’s friendly, the food is good, the coffee is good. The TIM TAMS!’” she exclaims.
It’s clear that Williams infuses passion into everything that she does, and she keeps that energy store full by also getting a break from being ‘Grammy-award winning Michelle Williams’.
Her new journey, with the podcast, is taking up much of her time these days. Williams has been open about her own struggles with mental health and is passionate about reducing the stigma around the topic.
“I do a lot of public speaking now on the topics of mental health, wellness, making cool pivots and transitions with life and career, and making sure you have fun while doing it,” she explains.
“In 2013, I started talking about mental health and what it has done for people. Now more and more people are talking about it and just kind of normalizing the topic versus the stigma of it,” she adds. “Not everybody has to shout it from the mountaintop, but I will say everybody does have mental health.”
While she is focused on this new love for health and wellness, as well as her speaking engagements, music will always have a special place in her heart.
“I do love music but as far as this other thing, [podcasting] has taken over my career a little bit. But it depends on the moment or the [song] request, but I will definitely bust out some pipes,” she says.
When is she singing? “It could be something acapella or in the moment. Especially if I’m doing a speaking engagement they love when I do a little snippet of a song. I don’t want people to think I’ve totally given up singing, again, it just has to mean something,” she says.
Her favourite song to sing? Well, of course it’s ‘We Break The Dawn’.
Netflix has exceeded all expectations in the first quarter of 2024, reaching approximately 269.60 million subscribers by March 31. This achievement comes as a surprise even to the streaming giant itself, which was projected to add only 3.93 million subscribers in the same period. The platform’s early 2024 lineup, featuring new breakout hits like Avatar: The Last Airbender, 3 Body Problem, The Gentlemen, Fool Me Once, Griselda, and Damsel, has played a significant role in attracting a larger audience.
One of the key strategies that helped Netflix achieve this milestone was cracking down on accounts sharing passwords. By tightening security measures, the platform has not only retained existing subscribers but also managed to attract new ones. Netflix’s consistent flow of original movies and TV series, along with content from other studios, has kept viewers engaged and loyal to the platform.
Despite its impressive subscriber numbers, Netflix recently announced its decision to stop reporting quarterly subscription totals starting in 2025. This unexpected move has raised eyebrows within the industry, as the platform’s subscriber numbers have traditionally influenced its stock prices. The decision to withhold these numbers suggests that Netflix may anticipate a future decrease in subscribers and wants to prevent a corresponding drop in its stock price.
Furthermore, Netflix is gearing up for a shift in its content strategy. The platform aims to produce original movies that are “better, cheaper, and less frequent” than in the past. This new approach also involves moving away from making massive upfront payments to established stars and creators. The impact of these changes on Netflix’s future as a movie and TV studio remains to be seen, but the company seems focused on finding a balance between quality content and cost efficiency.
With its subscriber base continuing to grow at an impressive rate, Netflix maintains its position as the undisputed king of the streaming realm. The platform’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and deliver compelling content has solidified its dominance in the industry. As the competition in the streaming market intensifies, Netflix’s strategic decisions and innovative content offerings will be crucial in sustaining its success and staying ahead of the curve.
Here’s a look back at how the Beatles captured the hearts of Australian fans during their 1964 tour, without the extravagant stage effects that are common in today’s concerts.
Teenager Sandi Keane vividly remembers the excitement of seeing the Fab Four at Melbourne’s Southern Cross Hotel. The Beatles, in the midst of Beatlemania, were greeted by hundreds of thousands of screaming fans lining the streets from Essendon Airport to the city center.
Despite the overwhelming crowds, the Beatles were thrilled by the reception. They engaged with the fans, with drummer Ringo Starr even joking about his daring entrance into the hotel.
At the Festival Hall concerts a few days later, super fans like Ms. Keane were immersed in the Beatles’ music and energy. The band, representing a new generation of change, played a key role in the cultural shift of the 60s.
While their performance may seem simple by today’s standards, with just their voices and instruments, the impact of the Beatles’ music was undeniable. Songs like “She Loves You” resonated with fans like Ms. Keane, creating a joyous and unforgettable experience.
Now, 60 years later, the Beatles’ Australasian tour is celebrated as a defining moment of Beatlemania. A new book, “When We Was Fab: Inside the Beatles Australasian Tour 1964,” compiled by Greg Armstrong and Andy Neill, captures the essence of that historic moment.
Reflecting on the Beatles’ personalities, Ms. Keane describes Paul McCartney as having a “honey on toast-type voice,” John Lennon’s raspy tones, Ringo Starr’s shyness, and George Harrison’s reserved nature. Despite their fame, the Beatles remained true to themselves.
The Beatles’ ability to captivate audiences with just their music and presence, without the need for elaborate stage effects, is what makes them timeless. Their performance, filled with raw talent and genuine connection, continues to resonate with fans today.
As the Beatles left a lasting impact on Australia during their 1964 tour, their legacy lives on through their music and the memories of fans like Sandi Keane, who experienced the magic of Beatlemania firsthand.
The Beatles’ influence on music and pop culture is undeniable, with their simple yet powerful performances showcasing the true essence of their talent. Despite the passage of time, the Beatles’ music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, proving that sometimes, all you need are four boys in suits and ties to win over a nation.
With its epic storylines, intricate characters, and captivating drama, Game of Thrones became a cultural phenomenon that captured the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. Lasting for a total of eight seasons, this iconic fantasy series created by George R.R. Martin mesmerized audiences with its intricate plots, stunning visuals, and unexpected twists. Dive into the kingdoms of Westeros and Essos as we explore the journey of Game of Thrones through its many seasons.
Overview of the Series
Adaptation and Original Content
For fans of the popular series “Game of Thrones“, the show is known for its impressive adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels. While staying true to the essence of the books, the show also introduced original content to enhance the viewing experience.
Summary of Themes and Genre
With its intricate plots, complex characters, and constant power struggles, “Game of Thrones” explores deep into themes of politics, power, morality, and betrayal. The show seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, drama, and action to create a captivating viewing experience.
The genre of “Game of Thrones” can be categorized as epic fantasy, with a unique blend of medieval elements, magic, and political intrigue. The series has gained a massive following for its ability to transport viewers to the fictional world of Westeros and Essos, where characters navigate through a web of alliances and conflicts.
Examination of the Seasons
Breakdown by Season
Examination of the seasons of Game of Thrones reveals a meticulously crafted narrative that unfolds over eight compelling seasons. Each season plays a significant role in advancing the intricate storylines, showcasing the world of Westeros and the battle for the Iron Throne.
Key Plotlines and Character Developments
One of the defining elements of Game of Thrones is its complex web of key plotlines and character developments that captivate audiences around the globe. From the power struggles in King’s Landing to the epic battles beyond the Wall, each season expertly weaves together the destinies of the characters, raising the stakes and immersing viewers in a world of political intrigue and dynamic relationships.
With characters like Daenerys Targaryen’s journey from exile to queen, Jon Snow’s discovery of his true identity, and the intricate schemes of players like Cersei Lannister and Petyr Baelish, Game of Thrones keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable twists and turns.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Critical Acclaim and Awards
After the launch of Game of Thrones in 2011, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon, praised by critics and audiences alike for its complex characters, intricate storytelling, and stunning visual effects. The series received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series and individual performances.
Influence on Popular Culture
Any fan of Game of Thrones can attest to its significant impact on popular culture. The show sparked worldwide discussion and speculation, with fans dissecting every episode for clues and theories. The series also influenced other forms of media, inspiring a surge in fantasy television shows and novels that aimed to capture the same level of intrigue and depth.
To delve deeper into the influence of Game of Thrones on popular culture, it’s important to note that the show not only redefined the fantasy genre but also set new standards for television production and storytelling. Its success paved the way for other epic series to take risks and explore darker, more intricate narratives, making it a landmark moment in television history.
Cultural
The Impact of Game of Thrones extended beyond just entertainment. The series sparked conversations about power dynamics, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of war and politics. It also propelled its cast and crew to international stardom, turning actors into household names and showcasing the talent of behind-the-scenes professionals in the industry.
Additional Media and Spin-offs
Prequels and Companion Series
To expand the rich world of Westeros, HBO has announced several prequels and companion series to keep fans engaged in the Game of Thrones universe. These upcoming shows will examine into the history and lore of George R.R. Martin’s intricate world, providing audiences with new perspectives and insights into the events that shaped the realm we know from the original series.
Other Game of Thrones Related Works
Series such as “House of the Dragon” have been greenlit and are highly anticipated by viewers eager for more tales from the Seven Kingdoms. Additionally, the network has hinted at potential spin-offs and adaptations of other works by George R.R. Martin, ensuring that there will be no shortage of content for fans craving more intrigue and drama.
Works set in the Game of Thrones universe have become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide with their complex characters, political intrigues, and epic battles. Whether through TV spin-offs, books, or other forms of media, the legacy of Game of Thrones continues to thrive, ensuring its status as one of the most beloved fantasy franchises of all time.
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Summing up
Hence, with a total of eight seasons, Game of Thrones captivated audiences around the world with its intricate plots, complex characters, and epic battles. While the series came to an end in 2019, its impact on popular culture and the entertainment industry continues to be felt. Fans will forever debate the direction of the final seasons and the fates of their beloved characters, but there is no denying the lasting legacy of this groundbreaking show.
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