Teyana Taylor Earns Oscar Nomination for 'Selma's Greatest Love'
Locales: New Jersey, New York, California, UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 27th, 2026 - Teyana Taylor, the dynamic and increasingly influential artist, is riding a wave of momentum following her Oscar nomination for Best Original Song for her powerful contribution to the film Selma's Greatest Love. In a recent interview, Taylor reflected on the surreal nature of the recognition, her journey from a celebrated dancer to a multi-faceted creative force, and her ambitious plans for the future, which prominently feature a move into directing.
Taylor, speaking with a characteristic blend of gratitude and determined energy, described the nomination as "a pinch-me moment." The acknowledgment from the Academy isn't merely a validation of her artistic talent, but a testament to a career built on relentless work ethic and a commitment to authenticity. "It's still surreal," she admitted, "I'm so grateful for this. It's a full-circle moment." This sentiment suggests a particularly poignant connection to the project, possibly stemming from the film's subject matter or the artistic freedom afforded to her during its creation.
Taylor's path to Oscar recognition is anything but conventional. She first captivated audiences with her exceptional dance skills, becoming a sought-after performer in music videos and live shows. However, limiting herself to one discipline was never an option. "I've always been a creator, a doer, a maker," she explained. "I've always been in control, even when I wasn't." This reveals a core personality trait - a proactive drive to shape her own narrative, rather than simply being a part of others'. This drive propelled her into the worlds of music and acting, areas where she's rapidly proven her mettle.
The transition from dancer to musician and actor isn't seamless for many, but Taylor appears to have navigated it with remarkable grace and vision. Her music career, characterized by a unique blend of R&B, hip-hop, and soulful vocals, has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Her acting roles, while still developing, have showcased her range and ability to inhabit diverse characters. It's this multifaceted approach that sets her apart and contributes to her growing influence in the entertainment industry. She isn't simply a performer; she's a storyteller capable of conveying emotion and narrative through multiple mediums.
Taylor is acutely aware of the impact the Oscar nomination is having on her career trajectory. "It's a reminder that hard work pays off, that staying true to yourself is important, and that it's okay to take risks," she stated. This is a crucial message, particularly in an industry often characterized by conformity and compromise. Taylor's success serves as encouragement to other artists to embrace their individuality and pursue their creative visions without apology. The 'risk' she refers to is likely a broader commentary on the challenges faced by artists who defy categorization and consistently push boundaries.
Looking ahead, Taylor is setting her sights on directing, a natural extension of her already expansive creative control. "Directing is definitely on my radar," she confirmed. "I've been soaking everything in and learning as much as I can." This isn't a sudden whim, but a deliberate and calculated move. She's actively absorbing knowledge from seasoned directors, observing their techniques, and preparing herself to take the helm. Considering her background as a visual performer and storyteller, this transition feels less like a career shift and more like a logical progression.
She isn't limiting her ambitions to a single genre, either. Taylor expressed a desire to explore diverse cinematic landscapes and broaden her artistic horizons. "I'm ready to create," she emphasized, a statement that encapsulates her relentless drive and unwavering commitment to her craft. This suggests a willingness to tackle challenging and unconventional projects, potentially venturing into independent film or exploring stories that are underrepresented in mainstream cinema.
Taylor's nomination for Selma's Greatest Love isn't just about one song; it's a culmination of years of dedication, innovation, and a refusal to be defined by a single label. With her eyes firmly set on directing and a boundless appetite for creative exploration, Teyana Taylor is poised to become a leading voice in the entertainment industry, not just as a performer, but as a visionary storyteller shaping the cultural landscape for years to come.
Read the Full KTLA Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/movies/articles/teyana-taylor-talks-oscar-nod-205620214.html ]