Teyana Taylor shares the advice Beyoncé gave her on navigating the music industry’s isolating nature, reflecting on a bond that began when Taylor was barely a teenager and has continued to shape her career ever since.
Taylor was just 15 years old when Beyoncé tapped her to choreograph the 2006 “Ring the Alarm” music video. What started as a professional opportunity quickly evolved into a lasting friendship—one that, according to the One Battle After Another star, has been filled with invaluable guidance from one of music’s most influential figures.
In a recent interview with People, published Wednesday (Jan. 28), Taylor opened up about the lessons Beyoncé shared with her during moments of uncertainty. Looking back, Taylor admitted she entered the industry leading with her heart, often taking things personally before fully understanding how the business works. Whenever confusion or frustration crept in, Beyoncé offered a simple but powerful reminder: don’t take it personal.
Taylor also spoke candidly about the loneliness that can come with creative control. As her vision grew clearer, she realized that bringing it to life sometimes meant doing much of the work herself. That realization, she said, was both empowering and isolating—a reality Beyoncé had already learned to navigate.
Another key lesson Beyoncé passed along was the importance of self-investment. Taylor explained that much of an artist’s earnings often go toward paying the people needed to execute their vision. Not every paycheck ends up in your own pocket—but that’s the price of believing in yourself. For Taylor, that mindset became a cornerstone of her approach to both music and business.
Beyond the advice, Taylor said Beyoncé’s demeanor left a lasting impression. Watching someone of Beyoncé’s stature remain gracious, humble, and grounded reinforced the kind of artist—and person—Taylor wanted to be. If Beyoncé could lead with that level of integrity, Taylor felt she should strive to do the same.
The interview arrives just days before the 2026 Grammy Awards on Saturday (Feb. 1), where Taylor is nominated for Best R&B Album for Escape Room. The year before, Beyoncé made history once again, extending her record-breaking Grammy total to 35, including Album of the Year honors for Cowboy Carter.
Their mutual respect has also played out publicly. In 2024, Taylor and Victoria Monét honored Beyoncé at the BET Awards by recreating her iconic 2004 performance with Usher in Puerto Rico. Beyoncé later reposted the tribute on Instagram, prompting an emotional reaction from Taylor, who excitedly praised the superstar she’s long admired.
For Taylor, Beyoncé’s guidance has been more than advice—it’s been a blueprint for surviving, and thriving, in an industry that can often feel like you’re on your own.
