Alexis Jordan makes sure she tells her mother all about her life – because Beyoncé Knowles told her to.

The 18-year-old star found fame after appearing on the first season on America's Got Talent in 2006. She didn’t win, but after taking part she decided to promote herself on video sharing website YouTube, resulting in Jay-Z and production group Stargate signing her to their label Star Roc/Roc Nation.

The rapper has given Alexis a lot of tips, and she has also grown close to his superstar wife Beyoncé.

“Yes. I can’t lie – I talk to her a lot,” she said. “When Jay was touring in America, I would sit next to B and she told me, ‘Always talk to your mother,’ and I took that advice.”

Jay-Z has also spent a lot of time giving Alexis words of advice. He also mentored Rihanna when she started out, and likes to make sure the young musicians he nurtures can cope with being in the spotlight.

“He’s a boss,” she told Look. “He’s given me tips but I can’t tell you what he said – I keep our conversations private.”