Teyana Taylor Reveals Beyoncé's Advice That Shaped Her Career

The R&B singer shares the wisdom Queen Bey gave her at the start of her career.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:39pm

In an exclusive interview, Teyana Taylor opened up about the one piece of advice Beyoncé gave her that has stuck with her throughout her career. Taylor said Beyoncé told her to "invest in yourself" and "don't take it personal" when it comes to the business side of the entertainment industry. Taylor recalled that Beyoncé's guidance helped her understand that not every dollar earned goes directly into her pocket, and that believing in yourself is the key to success.

Why it matters

Teyana Taylor's story provides a rare glimpse into the mentorship and wisdom that top artists like Beyoncé share with rising stars. It highlights how established musicians can play a pivotal role in shaping the careers of the next generation through personal advice and real-world lessons.

The details

Taylor and Beyoncé first met when Taylor was 15 years old and was hired to choreograph the music video for Beyoncé's 2006 hit "Ring the Alarm." Taylor said she was "face to face, knees bumping" with Beyoncé during the video shoot, and that Beyoncé recognized her talent, saying "She's a star." Over the years, Beyoncé has continued to impart valuable business advice to Taylor, teaching her not to take things personally in the industry and to invest in herself, even if that means the majority of her earnings go towards funding her own vision.

  • Taylor was 15 years old when she first met Beyoncé and choreographed the "Ring the Alarm" music video in 2006.
  • The exclusive interview with PEOPLE where Taylor shared Beyoncé's advice was published on January 28, 2026.

The players

Teyana Taylor

An R&B singer and actress who has been mentored by Beyoncé since the start of her career.

Beyoncé

A 35-time Grammy-winning singer and songwriter who has provided valuable business advice to Teyana Taylor over the years.

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What they’re saying

“Don't take it personal. This is a business.”

— Beyoncé (PEOPLE)

“Every single check ain't going to hit your pocket, and that's only if you truly believe in yourself. Believing in yourself is investing in yourself — and she taught me that.”

— Teyana Taylor, R&B singer and actress (PEOPLE)

The takeaway

Teyana Taylor's story highlights the invaluable mentorship that can occur between established music icons like Beyoncé and rising stars. By sharing hard-won business lessons and wisdom, Beyoncé has helped shape Taylor's career approach, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and understanding the realities of the entertainment industry.