If you've ever scrolled through Tray Taylor's Instagram, you know that his energy is palpable even through a screen—the way he moves is fierce, personal, and truly expressive. The dancer and choreographer's routines are also notably high-energy, fun, interactive and, of course, technically impressive. It's not at all surprising that he has gained a hefty audience of people wanting to follow along and learn his dances, as well as people just seeking a spark of joy. (And, luckily for anyone in the Los Angeles area, he teaches intermediate and advanced classes at Moving Lifestyle Dance Studio, where he shares his routines choreographed to Charli XCX, Doja Cat, and more.)
When he's not demonstrating the power of movement and, in turn, the power of the human body, Taylor is likely taking it slow and easy with a book, and sharing thoughts on what he's read with followers of his second Instagram account, @trayreadthat.
We caught up with the dancer, choreographer, and book aficionado about what consumes his time when he's outside of the studio.
Where Are You From?
Tray TaylorFrom: Houston, Texas
Born: Shreveport, Louisiana
Located: Los Angeles, California
What's Entertaining You?
instagram.com/tray.taylor1
Reading: "Up in Smoke is a recent young adult thriller release that has made me enjoy this genre even more."
Listening: "I’ve been listening to alternative pop recently! My favorite artist is Ravyn Lenae. My favorite song at the moment is 'Jezebel' by Natanya."
What's In Your Cart?
instagram.com/tray.taylor1
Ottoman chair(s): "I deserve a new reading chair—the kind I think about on my way home. Hopefully, it’s not too comfortable, because I absolutely will turn off my Kindle and take a nap when needed."
"How Europe Undeveloped Africa" by Walter Rodney with an introduction by Angela Davis: "I’ve always wanted to learn more about a distant homeland I was never granted, despite my desire to be educated on global affairs. This book isn’t just history; it’s context."
"FORWARD" by Jordan Ward: "This album reminds me of the importance of family and staying aligned with my path. The psychedelic melodies throughout the album are perfect to have playing in the background while reading."
"Kings of Ashes" by S.A. Cosby: "He's been on my radar of authors to get to for the longest time. This is his latest book, and I’m torn between wanting to buy it or reading what I already have from his catalog on my shelf."
"Kafka on the Shore" by Haruki Murakami: "This is the first book I'm reading from Haruki Murakami’s catalog and it’s a perfect start to his world. His prose and imagery is so immersive and I’m eager to keep reading!!"
What Are You Saving?
Tray Taylor
'BLEACH 3-in-1 Edition Manga': "I LOVE MANGA!! I’ve been into Japanese storytelling through art and animation so much lately that I make my manga reads a priority in my reading experience! My brother loves Bleach and I want to see what the hype is about!"
Weapons: ""I saw the trailer for Weapons a while ago and still feel the urge to see what it’s about. I absolutely loved the choreographed run of the children with their arms out—it’s insidious and very intriguing."
Brand New Eyes by Paramore: "I’ve been listening to Paramore a lot recently, especially their album Brand New Eyes. This album speaks so much to me and feels incredibly nostalgic, so much so that I’ve decided to listen to their entire discography!"
