Kelly Rowland Parts Ways With Manager Mathew Knowles, Beyonce's Dad
Singer has long been managed by Knowles, who calls himself her 'dad' in statement.

By Jayson Rodriguez

Destiny's Child sang on their 2000 hit "Independent Woman" that they depend on themselves to pay their own bills. Perhaps founding member Kelly Rowland is taking that motto to heart.

The singer announced in a joint statement Wednesday (January 28) with Mathew Knowles that the two are severing their working relationship. Knowles is Beyoncé's father and manages her, in addition to her sister Solange, and Destiny's Child. He also oversaw Rowland's career since she released her first solo LP, 2002's Simply Deep.

"Mathew Knowles has been a positive influence in my career," Rowland said in the statement. "I have had great success under his guidance — both as a member of Destiny's Child and with my solo projects. Although we have decided to part ways professionally, the Knowles family and the entire Music World Entertainment team will always be my family."

Destiny's Child split in 2005 but have maintained the split is not permanent.

The move comes more than a year after Rowland's last album, 2007's Ms.Kelly. The album was delayed a number of times, but upon its release, the project was received well by critics. The album, featuring the single "Like This" with Eve, however, failed to live up to the commercial success of her debut, which sold over 500,000 copies and was certified gold.

Rowland was practically raised by the Knowles family, making the split that much more surprising. The singer moved into the Knowles' Texas home during the formation of Destiny's Child and often refers to Beyoncé as her sister. Mathew Knowles acknowledged their ties, saying Rowland will always continue to be a part of the Knowles clan.

He also stressed that no animosity was involved in this business separation.

"After a very positive meeting between Kelly Rowland and myself, we have amicably agreed to end our professional relationship," he said in the statement. "My company, Music World, will continue to manage Destiny's Child as a group. As an artist Kelly has incredible talent and I only wish her the best. We will always be family first and foremost, and as a dad I only have love for Kelly."

As of press time, it is unclear if Rowland has retained new management.

Now, if only Michelle can get her azz outta there...

Too little too late, he's already ruined whatever momentum she coulda capitalized on.

Some people call Kelly Rowland the new Mary Wilson of 2009. Do you all agree. I wish her well in all her endeavors!

Now, if only Michelle can get her azz outta there...

SCNDLS said:

Mission accomplished.

Who didn't see this coming?

Kelly Rowland splits from Beyonce's manager dad

NEW YORK – Kelly Rowland says she will always be a part of Beyonce's family, but she no longer will be managed by the superstar's father.

It's about time, and I hope Michele follows. Mathew is only concerned with one daughter. It is only a matter of time before Beyonce does to him what the Jacksons did to Joe.

its not the management its the whole climate of american rb in general. If you aint Beyonce at this point, you aint getting played, unless you are some sort of fluke case. The producers here suck, they are weaving everyone into the same sound, so she could have "joe the hitmaker" behind her, it really doesnt matter. RB females like Kelly,Mya,Ameri are all suceeding in other markets because there is no where to go in the USA. I thought we all knew this already?

totaldiva said:

with how close Kelly is to the family, this is basically the same as that

JackieBlue said:

She needs Clive.