Destiny's Child Loses Another Singer

Destiny's Child and group member Farrah Franklin have parted ways, according to published reports. Roughly five months ago, Franklin replaced one of the R&B quartet's original members.

According to an MTV News report, group member Beyoncé Knowles told MTV that the split with Franklin occurred due to Franklin's failure to show up for several of the group's recent appearances. Knowles added that Franklin "was not kicked out of the group," but failed to comment on the specific details of the split.

A spokesperson for Columbia Records confirmed the report that Franklin was out of the group, but declined further comment, adding that the group was expected to release a statement soon.

Destiny's Child--which also includes Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams--will continue on as a trio, according to the MTV report. On Monday, July 31, the group is scheduled to take over as the opening act on Christina Aguilera's current tour. The group will be touring in support of its multi-platinum sophomore album "The Writing's on the Wall," an album that spawned the radio hits "Bills, Bills, Bills," "Bug A Boo" and "Say My Name."

In February, Franklin and Williams replaced original members LaTavia Roberson and LeToya Luckett. Roberson and Luckett have since filed a lawsuit against the group--which also includes original members Knowles and Kelly Rowland--and its manager, claiming they were unwittingly forced out.