By Tammy Reese
Teaona Ms. Huxtable Ballard’s journey from the streets of Syracuse, NY, to the spotlight of the hip hop scene is nothing short of inspiring. Born on May 8th, Teaona’s early exposure to a diverse array of music — from country to R&B — shaped her eclectic taste and fueled her passion for the art. Influenced by powerhouse artists like Nicki Minaj, Lil Kim, and Left Eye from TLC, she began transforming her private poetry into public freestyles, capturing the attention of her social media followers. Balancing her roles as a Medical Assistant, Phlebotomist, and mother, Teaona’s relentless dedication to her craft led her to win Syracuse’s first-ever Hip Hop Award for Best Female Artist of the Year, solidifying her place in the music industry.
Can you tell us more about your early interest in music and how it evolved from country to R&B?
Well, my father was more into country, rock and pop music where as my mother was more into R&B and Hip Hop. I definitely believe their taste in music influenced what I listened to as I got older.
What was it about artists like Nicki Minaj, Lil Kim, and Left Eye from TLC that inspired you to start writing music?
What inspired me the most about these artists is that they weren’t afraid to be themselves. They all had this infectious confidence in their candace whenever I heard their music or watched them perform.
What was your reaction when you won Syracuse’s first-ever Hip Hop Award for “Best Female Artist of the Year”?
I was surprised and thrilled when I won Best Female Artist of the Year. It was a huge accomplishment for me because I felt like I worked so hard and have grown so much as an artist within that year.
Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re excited about and can share with us?
I do plan on releasing another CD this coming fall, the date has yet to be announced so stay tuned! :)
What advice would you give to other aspiring artists who are trying to balance their passion for music with other life responsibilities?
My advice to other artists trying to balance their music and life responsibilities is organization and planning. Most importantly to stay focused. More often than not you don’t need more time you just need less distractions.
How has your journey as an artist influenced you personally and professionally?
My journey as an artist has influenced me to really have patience, to embrace my confidence and to just keep going no matter what even if some people don’t like my music. I’ll still continue to make music for those who do. Professionally my journey as an artist has influenced my ability to communicate and network with people. Doing so has opened a lot of opportunities for me. My most recent single “Twin Flames” Aired on 95X Radio Station this past Sunday. All because I jumped out of the box and contacted the radio station myself.
Can you share a memorable moment from your career that has stayed with you?
A memorable moment in my career I think would be when I performed at the CNY Pride Festival during the summer of 2023. It was my first paid performance! I also had the largest crowd I ever performed infront of. I was so nervous because this was the first time my family and friends came to see me perform. It was an amazing experience that I will never forget.
What message do you hope your music conveys to your listeners?
I hope my music sets the tone for originality. I want my listeners to know that I am just like them. I go through the same situations and feelings as most people. I had to get comfortable with being uncomfortable when talking about my experiences and emotions.
In what ways do you hope to give back or contribute to your community through your music and influence?
For my community, I hope to influence other artists to take that leap and start putting out music! Music is a great outlet for creativity and expression. One day I wish to start a music program for the youth I truly believe Syracuse breeds talent and I would like to help bringing some of that talent to the light.
How do you see the role of female artists evolving in the hip hop industry, and what part do you hope to play in that evolution?
As of right now there are so many incredibly talented female artists in the Hip Hop industry who are making big moves in my opinion. Their artistry doesn’t go unnoticed leading them to earn some of the most prestigious awards. Which leads me to believe the evolution is already underway. Keeping that original & unique New York sound is what I hope to add to this evolution.
Connect on Instagram @ms._huxtable
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TAMMY REESE
Tammy Reese began her career as a theater actress performing in 60 live stage shows a year with The Media Unit TV and Stage Production Company. She also directed the weekly live TV show Rough Times Live.
Eventually, she went to Empire State College to obtain her degree in media studies. After graduation, she did more theater and wrote and produced her own videos to spread awareness on social issues through the arts.
Tammy is an award-winning journalist and is best known for her legendary interviews with Sharon Stone, Angela Bassett, Jasmine Guy, Sigourney Weaver, Phylicia Rashad, Billy Porter, Steven Yeun, Luke Evans, Geena Davis, Morris Chestnut, Terry O’Quinn, Ginuwine, Amerie, Donell Jones, Nelly, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Giancarlo Esposito, Jennifer Connelly, Laurence Fishburne, Vivica A. Fox, Omar Epps, Joseph Sikora, Ryan Coogler, Britt Lower, Merritt Wever, Kathleen Robertson, Michael James Shaw, Dedee Pfeiffer, Carmen Electra, Essie Davis, Tom Arnold, Theo Rossi, Skeet Ulrich and many more.
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