In the world of entertainment, deals are made, contracts are signed and brands are built. With all of these factors, having the right celebrity management, someone you can trust by your side, is everything. For many Black women celebrities, that trusted confidant has been none other than their mothers. These dynamic mother-daughter duos show just how powerful family support can be, especially when dreams are on the line. There are a number of iconic Black women whose careers were shaped — and transformed — by their moms.
Brandy and Sonja Norwood
Brandy exploded onto the scene in the ’90s with her self-titled debut album and later starred in the show “Moesha.” Throughout it all, her mother, Sonja Norwood, was directing every move. Norwood managed the singer since she was two-years-old, guiding her through fair deals and diverse opportunities from music, to television to film. In 2011, Norwood launched the Norwood Talent Agency.
Jordyn Woods and Elizabeth Woods
Jordyn Woods has steadily carved out her own lane in fitness and entrepreneurship; all with her mother Elizabeth Woods by her side. As her manager, Woods helps Jordyn navigate the ups and downs of public life. Most notably, Woods was right by her daughter’s side after the very public fallout with best friend Kylie Jenner. In 2019, Woods scolded the companies selling merch of her daughter’s face to profit from the incident.
“We are well aware that many people have been selling merch. If you are aware of any companies selling merchandise and trying to benefit from our situation, please tag them below. We would like for the world to know that we have not authorized any of this and have not profited from any of these sales whatsoever. Thank you for all the support and love,” she captioned an Instagram post in 2019.
Megan Thee Stallion and Holly Thomas
Megan Thee Stallion’s mother, Holly Thomas — a rapper herself under the name Holly-Wood — was her first manager and biggest believer. Thomas introduced Megan to the world of hip-hop and stayed by her side as she found her voice, writing rhymes and perfecting her craft. Even after Thomas’ passing in 2019, Megan continues to honor her mother’s legacy. She credits her mom with instilling the strength, resilience, and authenticity that define her career today.
“I am truly humbled to be in such incredible company… I really want to thank my mom. I want to thank my mom because she taught me how to be the woman that I am,” she said at the 2021 Glamour Woman of the Year.
Teyana Taylor and Nikki Taylor
Teyana Taylor’s career as a singer, dancer, actress, and director has always had one consistent anchor: her mother, Nikki Taylor. From the very beginning, Taylor not only managed her daughter’s career but fiercely protected her artistic freedom. Thanks to her mother’s strategic guidance, Teyana carved out her own space in the entertainment industry without compromising her unique style and voice.
Holly Robinson Peete and Dolores Robinson
Holly Robinson Peete has had a long and successful career as an actress, author, and advocate. Much of that success can be traced back to her mother, Dolores Robinson. In 1976, Robinson founded Dolores Robinson Entertainment, which managed Peete’s early career. She helped Peete break into television during a time when opportunities for Black women were even more limited. Through her mother’s guidance, Peete found roles on beloved shows like “21 Jump Street” and “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper.”
Ashanti and Tina Douglas
Before Ashanti became a chart-topping singer, it was her mother who recognized her talent. From the beginning, Tina Douglas brought tapes of her daughter to different record labels until she was signed in 1984. Douglas served as Ashanti’s manager, helping her daughter land life-changing opportunities. Even as Ashanti’s career evolved, Douglas remained a key figure behind the scenes, making sure her daughter had the freedom to control her image, her music, and her business ventures.
Keke Palmer and Sharon Palmer
Long before Keke Palmer became a household name, her mother, Sharon Palmer, believed in her daughter’s talent. Palmer, a former actress herself, managed Keke’s career from childhood into her adult years. From Keke’s breakout role in “Akeelah and the Bee” to her transition into hosting, singing, and producing, Palmer’s guidance helped build Keke into one of the most versatile entertainers.
Christina Milian and Carmen Milian
Christina Milian’s mother, Carmen Milian, laid the foundation for her success as a singer, actress, and entrepreneur. From a young age, Carmen recognized Christina’s talent. Their mother-daughter bond also inspired Christina’s ventures into business and fashion, showing that belief and bold moves can turn dreams into reality.