Teyana Taylor, a powerhouse entertainer known for her dynamic dancing, singing, and acting, recently made the difficult decision to step away from the music industry, citing a profound lack of support from her label and a prioritization of her mental and emotional well-being over industry battles. This move highlights a career marked by immense talent, from choreographing for Beyoncé at 15 to becoming a breakout star in Kanye West’s ‘Fade,’ all while navigating the often-challenging landscape of entertainment.
In an industry often defined by relentless pursuit of fame, Teyana Taylor’s journey stands out as a testament to raw talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and ultimately, a courageous commitment to self-preservation. From her early days as a gifted choreographer to her recent decision to retire from music, Taylor has consistently carved her own path, captivating audiences with her unique blend of artistry and resilience.
A Prodigy’s Early Start: Choreographing for Queen Bey
Long before she became a household name, Teyana Taylor was making waves behind the scenes, showcasing a prodigious talent for dance and choreography. At just 15 years old, she landed a dream job: choreographing for none other than Beyoncé. Taylor vividly recalls receiving the call to work on the music video for Beyoncé’s 2006 hit, “Ring the Alarm.”
This formative experience, where she spent time with Beyoncé “face to face, knees bumping,” left a lasting impression. Taylor admired Beyoncé’s collaborative spirit, noting how the superstar was open to her direction, even bringing her back for the MTV Video Music Awards performance of the song. As reported by People, Taylor stated that Beyoncé “will forever have my respect, ‘cause you know this is a wicked, wicked industry.”
Interestingly, her connection to Beyoncé didn’t end there. Years later, Taylor revealed that some of the iconic choreography featured in Kanye West’s “Fade” video was originally designed for Beyoncé’s “End of Time.” However, Beyoncé couldn’t use it because she was pregnant at the time, a fact unknown to the public, leaving the choreography “just sitting there” until Taylor freestyled it for “Fade.”
From Reality TV to Music Stardom
Taylor’s career trajectory saw her rise through various avenues. She gained initial public attention on MTV’s “My Super Sweet 16” and quickly parlayed her talents into a record deal. At just 15 years old, she signed with Pharrell Williams’ Star Trak Entertainment label, demonstrating her undeniable potential. Her musical journey continued with a significant signing to Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music label in 2012.
Her album, “VII,” released in 2014, was a critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard charts for Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums. This milestone solidified her standing as a respected recording artist.
The “Fade” Phenomenon and Beyond
The 2016 MTV Video Music Awards marked a pivotal moment in Taylor’s career when she starred in Kanye West’s music video for “Fade.” Her captivating, sensual dance performance in minimal clothing became an instant sensation, catapulting her into mainstream recognition and sparking a cultural moment dubbed “Teyana SZN” by fans.
The success of “Fade” opened numerous doors for Taylor, showcasing her versatility beyond music. She became a prominent figure in fashion, modeling in Yeezy 4 shows, releasing her own shoe with Reebok, and gracing the cover of Paper Magazine. Her physique in the video also inspired her successful fitness program, “Fade 2 Fit.”
The Unseen Battles: Lack of Support and Mental Health
Despite her outward success and undeniable talent, Taylor’s journey was not without its struggles. She has openly discussed the challenges and frustrations she faced within the entertainment industry. Key among her dislikes were “negativity and drama,” as well as a profound “lack of support and encouragement.” She expressed how these factors could hinder creativity and foster insecurity among artists.
The weight of these issues eventually led to a critical turning point in her career. In a shocking announcement, Taylor revealed her decision to retire from music, explaining her reasons on Instagram Live. Her choice was not driven by a lack of appreciation from fans or disappointment over awards, but by a deep-seated feeling of being “unsupported and unappreciated” by her label, Def Jam.
Taylor articulated the imbalance: “I’m putting in 110% and my label is reciprocating 10% of that.” The constant feeling of being alone and failed took a significant toll on her. She disclosed that she had asked Def Jam to release her from her contract on “almost 10 different occasions,” emphasizing the severity of her struggle.
Ultimately, her decision was a courageous act of self-care. She prioritized her mental and emotional health, stating, “I have to do it for my mental health, I have to do it for my emotional health. I have to do it so I can stay alive for my kids.”
An Enduring Legacy and a Bright Future Beyond Music
While the music industry may have lost a powerful voice, Teyana Taylor’s retirement from music does not signify an end to her multifaceted career. Her fans continue to celebrate her numerous achievements and artistic contributions, from her captivating performances in films like “Coming 2 America” and “One Battle After Another” to her ongoing ventures in fashion and dance.
Taylor’s story serves as a vital reminder that true success encompasses not just professional accolades, but also personal well-being. Her decision has resonated deeply within the fan community, sparking important conversations about mental health and artist treatment in the entertainment world. As a true multi-hyphenate, Teyana Taylor’s influence will undoubtedly continue to be felt across various creative landscapes, proving that a star’s light can shine brightly even when charting a new course.
