You might not realize it, but you know Chris Robinson. He’s a film director who creates music videos and television commercials, and he has helped define hip-hop culture with his iconic images, all of which spring to life through his inimitable lens.

Robinson’s videos employ strong imagery and unique locations to help explain the true meanings behind the songs, showing the artist as a real person beyond all of the expensive jewelry and fancy cars. His vision shatters boundaries and, more important, helps break new artists.

His clients make up a who’s who of hip-hop royalty, including Jay-Z, Nas, Alicia Keys, Lil Wayne and, of course, T.I. As a matter of fact, T.I. is debuting his new video for “Got Your Back” (featuring Keri Hilson), which was directed by Chris Robinson right here and right now. And as an added bonus, our friends at K-Swiss were able to turn the lens around on Robinson and ask him some important questions about his life and career.

By: Lauren Schwartzberg