Director X (also known as Lil X) is the GOAT Music Video Director. He explains what it’s like directing Kendrick Lamar, Drake, The Weeknd, Ariana Grande, Usher and so many other A-List Artists.
Julien Christian Lutz aka Director X is the embodiment of innovation, authenticity, and masterful storytelling. With a legacy built alongside some of the biggest names in music—think Drake, Rihanna, Kendrick and Usher—Director X has reshaped the visual language of the music video industry. But his path to success wasn’t a straight shot to stardom. In this can’t-miss episode of The Manager's Playbook, hosted by Mauricio Ruiz, Director X opens up about his early days hustling to make a name for himself, the defining moments that tested his craft, and the relentless passion that pushed him to the top.
00:00 It's Art!
01:05 Ruiz Introduction to Director X
04:03 Do Music Videos Still Matter?
05:31 The Importance of Visual Identity
07:14 Insights on Directing and Performance
10:43 Collaborations and Creative Processes
13:24 Challenges and Changes in the Industry
28:50 Advice for Aspiring Directors
35:34 Early Beginnings and Following Your Interests
39:58 Divine Guidance and Personal Responsibility
42:21 The Struggle for Recognition
44:07 The Importance of Hustle
46:31 Proverbs and Practical Wisdom
47:52 Numerology and Realism
51:58 Power of choices - Don't be too precious!
54:06 The Evolution of Music Videos
01:02:28 Toronto's Influence on Music
01:13:22 The Essence of Authentic Art
01:15:37 Gratitude
Julien Christian Lutz aka Director X is the embodiment of innovation, authenticity, and masterful storytelling. With a legacy built alongside some of the biggest names in music—think Drake, Rihanna, Kendrick and Usher—Director X has reshaped the visual language of the music video industry. But his path to success wasn’t a straight shot to stardom. In this can’t-miss episode of The Manager's Playbook, hosted by Mauricio Ruiz, Director X opens up about his early days hustling to make a name for himself, the defining moments that tested his craft, and the relentless passion that pushed him to the top.
From pioneering visuals that captured the essence of hip-hop and R&B to leading high-stakes production teams, Director X shares the raw truth about his journey. He dives into the art of building genuine connections with artists, his approach to creating visuals that resonate in the digital age, and the importance of a strong, authentic visual identity. Throughout, he provides invaluable advice for emerging directors and creatives, revealing the dedication and depth of collaboration that go into making standout projects.
This isn’t just an episode about directing—it’s a blueprint for resilience, leadership, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. If you’re looking to get inspired by one of the industry’s most influential figures, this episode delivers unmatched insights from the master himself.
Subscribe for more insider stories and industry tips from the people who shape the sound of today.
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Host: Mauricio Ruiz
Producer: Mauricio Ruiz
Production Coordinator: Tia Cardoza
Channel Management: Jermelle Bahadosingh
Production Studio: Toronto Podcasts
Production Company: 8 Til Faint
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#the_manager's_playbook #mauricio_ruiz #music_management #music_industry_2024 #artist_development #music_business_podcast #the_manager’s_playbook_podcast #artist_manager #artist_management #Director_X #Visual_Storytelling #Music_Video_Production #Creative_Process #Director_X_Career #How_to_Direct_Music_Videos #visual_storytelling #music_video_production_for_beginners #music_video_tips_for_beginners #artist_branding #video_production #creative_leadership