Moore grew up in a small town just outside Philadelphia, making her singing debut at the age of 13 with a local rap crew. She was subsequently recruited by MCA Records to complete the line-up of vocal group Basic Instinct. After a short spell in this trio, Moore moved on to another R&B outfit, Choice, who were signed by LaFace Records. Her writing contributions came to the attention of L.A. Reid, who signed her as a solo artist and put her in the studio with the label's leading writer/producers, including Darryl Simmons and the label's co-founder, Babyface. Can't Take Me Home, released in April 2000, included several lame attempts to recapture the spirit of "There You Go", alongside the obligatory R&B diva ballad, "Let Me Let You Know". Nevertheless, "Most Girls" proved another enduringly popular hit single, breaking into the US Top 5 in October.

Pink moved away from her urban roots on the more successful M!ssundaztood, a harder-edged album which featured several tracks written and produced by her longtime idol, ex-4 Non Blondes leader Linda Perry. The album repeated the commercial success of her debut, and featured the US Top 5 singles, "Get The Party Started" and "Just Like A Pill". The latter provided Pink with her first UK chart-topper. By the end of 2002, Pink was established as the new face of US pop with her tales of teen angst reflecting a cultural shift away from the wholesome image promoted by singers such as Britney Spears and Mandy Moore.