In Episode 135 of the R&B Money podcast, Tank and J. Valentine welcomed Teedra Moses, affectionately known as the Lioness of R&B, to share the story behind her illustrious yet understated career. From writing hits for others to carving out her space as an independent artist, Teedra reflected on her resilience, authenticity, and passion for storytelling through music.
Teedra revealed that her initial dream was to become a rapper before transitioning to singing, a shift that defined her career. Working with producer Paul Paulie helped shape her distinctive sound, leading to her signing with TVT Records—home to artists like Lil Jon, Pitbull, and the Yin-Yang Twins. Remarkably, she landed the deal with no prior performance experience, a testament to her raw talent and potential.
Discussing her creative process, Teedra shared that her first-ever written and recorded song was “Caught Up,” which set the foundation for her natural songwriting style. She revealed that she rarely writes lyrics down, preferring to sing ideas to herself in front of a mirror. Early collaborations with a young Ne-Yo (then known as “Neo”) helped refine her vocal arrangements, further shaping her artistry.
Teedra reminisced about her initial touring days, where she performed for modest audiences but always delivered with high energy. Her “luxurious undergrind” approach to live shows—a term she coined to describe making the grind look glamorous—reflected her focus on enjoying her performances rather than seeking validation from others.
A defining moment came during a tour stop in Baltimore with Ginuwine, where fans sang her lyrics back to her, affirming her impact as an artist.
Despite industry pressures, Teedra has always prioritized relatability and authenticity over fame. “I wanted to be touchable, not untouchable,” she said, describing herself as an honest writer who aims to connect with listeners through genuine emotion rather than overly poetic lyrics.
Teedra opened up about balancing her career with raising twin sons as a single mother. She emphasized the importance of teamwork within her family and instilled values of responsibility and excellence in her children. Her sons, now members of the rising hip-hop group Coast Contra, initially kept their musical aspirations private until they felt ready to meet her high standards. Their success is a testament to the family’s bond and shared determination.
Signed to TVT Records during a time when independent artists faced uphill battles, Teedra encountered criticism about her appearance and struggled with limited industry support. Reflecting on those challenges, she highlighted a pivotal moment when a significant financial milestone inspired her to embrace independence and own her artistry entirely.
Her time in Miami became a turning point, as proximity to Maybach Music Group and collaborations with Rick Ross reignited her career.
Through career highs and lows, Teedra revealed that her unwavering belief in her craft has been her anchor. She advised fellow artists to focus on creating for personal fulfillment, embrace criticism, and find joy in their work. “Passion and authenticity are the keys to longevity,” she said. Teedra also reflects on engaging with online trolls, admitting to being reactive, letting negative comments affect her, the preparation for a Tiny Desk concert and much more.
