Teyana Taylor Speaks On Her Huge Collaboration With McDonald’s

The first lady of G.O.O.D Music, Teyana Taylor spoke with BET Digital about her new collaboration with McDonald’s and how becoming a mother has changed her hustle.

Taylor is a part of McDonald’s “Beat Of My City” initiative which a philanthropic effort that brings musical experiences into urban communities around the country.

BET: What is it about McDonalds that led you to align yourself with the brand, and what was your thought going into being a part of tonight’s event?

TT: Listen, I’m trying to get some free food for the rest of my life! [Laughs.]

I’ve always been a fan of McDonalds. Real talk—I’ve always loved their food. But putting this event together really means a lot because a lot of companies, especially corporate, will say they are doing something, and it’s really to benefit themselves and not really the people that they’re supposed to be doing it for. So, I think it’s such a genuine event that McDonalds put on. 

That was another part that kind of made it emotional [tonight], because I was like, ‘Damn, we really sitting here about to give mad money to Milbank Center.’ This is really where I got my start. Like, legit, [growing up in Harlem] if you weren’t lit at Milbank, you just wasn’t lit.

First of all, McDonald’s, what you even know about Milbank? I’m looking around and seeing posters and what not. Like, [McDonalds] really did put time and effort into this event, and I think it was amazing. It was amazing to see so many kids and the energy all around from the supporters, and creators, and McDonalds. It was totally genuine. I enjoyed it. It was like, “Aight, I liked McDonalds already, but they get the extra brownie points for this.” 

In addition to McDonald’s, Taylor’s teamed up with Spotify and Genius to bring the dance team, The Emphasis Dancers, Justine Skye and a unique music experience that doubled as a fundraiser for Milbank, a Harlem-based children’s center which is an extension of the Boys and Girls Club of America.

Teyana’s husband, NBA player Iman Shumpert was in attendance to support his wife, the couple share 1-year-old, Junie who Taylor credits for “giving her hips.” Since giving birth, Taylor says her daughter gave her “more to live for” and a “don’t play with my money” mentality.