J. Jesses Smith is a renowned music video director, highly sought after in the industry. With over a decade of experience in Hip-Hop/R&B video direction, he has worked with numerous superstars, including 50 Cent, Eve, Ashanti, The Wu-Tang Clan, Snoop Dog, DMX, Lil' Kim, Erick Sermon, Kelly Roland, Mos Def, TuPac and the Outlaws, Avant, Redman, Keith Sweat, Dave Hollister, Jersee Monet, Super Producers, Swizz Beatz, DJ Quick, Allstar, and LT Hutton, as well as rock groups Dope, Most Precious Blood, and Seminole County.
Smith has directed over 150 music videos, making him one of the most prolific directors in the industry. His music video directorography is a laundry list of who's who in Hip-Hop music. He has also worked on television, producing and directing the nationally-syndicated show "T&T Today" for BET, which is based on Caribbean culture, and the independent feature film "Crime Partners" based on a novel by Donald Goines, which achieved over 40 million in sales on a $250,000 budget.
As a branding expert, Smith has helped create brandings for popular artists such as Ruff Ryders and DMX, setting multiple staples in the hip hop realm. He is considered one of the most versatile directors in the industry, known for his unique and creative approach. Smith is often called upon when an artist is in need of a new image or style.
Although he still directs the occasional music video, Smith's real passion is directing feature films. His vast range can be seen in films such as the intensely-violent street hit "Crime Partners," featuring Laz Alonso, and the 2009 romantic comedy "I Do...I Did!" He has also directed an independent film, "The Gift" starring "The Wire"'s Jamie Hector. Smith's love for hard-hitting action can also be seen in such films as "One Blood" starring Antwon Tanner and Clifton Powell, and "Clandestine."
In 2010, Smith showed his versatility by taking on a serious drama, "Breathe."
