Music Video: Black Man by Memphis Artist Brandon Lewis

Here is a music video I had the opportunity to shoot and edit for Memphis R&B artist, Brandon Lewis's impactful song, "Black Man." This project holds a special place for me, not only because of the song's powerful message but also due to its connection to my time at Made In Memphis Entertainment (MIME) and MIME Records, under the guidance of David Porter.

"Black Man" is a song that demands to be heard. It's a raw and honest reflection on Black identity, and we wanted the visuals to amplify its message without distraction. We opted for a minimalistic approach, focusing solely on Brandon's performance and the evocative settings.

We shot the video on the grounds of Claiborne Temple and the I Am A Man plaza, both historically significant locations that add layers of meaning to the song. The simplicity of the visuals, with Brandon performing directly to the camera, allows his emotion and the weight of the lyrics to take center stage.

As a media producer and communications person at MIME at the time, I was deeply involved in bringing this vision to life. It was a collaborative effort, and I'm proud of how we were able to capture the essence of "Black Man" with such a stripped-down aesthetic.

Brandon's talent shines through in this video. He delivers a powerful performance that resonates long after the song ends. I believe this video is a testament to the power of simplicity and the importance of allowing the message to speak for itself.

I encourage you to watch "Black Man" and experience its power. It's a song and a video that I believe are both timely and relevant.

In addition to the music video, I'm also sharing a few street photographs I took of Brandon during our time working together at MIME. These images, captured on a separate occasion, offer another glimpse into his authentic, mysterious nature. There's a raw intensity in his gaze, a quiet strength that resonates in these candid shots, further reflecting the powerful message he conveys in 'Black Man.' They serve as a visual companion to the video, capturing the essence of the artist behind the music.

Street Photography by Saint Allen Austion of Brandon Lewis, Downtown Memphis

Street Photography by Saint Allen Austin of Brandon Lewis, Downtown Memphis