Taj Stansberry (commonly known as “TAJ”) is an award-winning multidisciplinary creative director and visual artist whose work bridges Oakland grit and Los Angeles polish. Raised in the Bay Area, he developed an early affinity for storytelling through music and street culture, a sensibility that informs his cinematic approach across music videos, commercial campaigns, print, and brand direction.

Known for marrying high-concept visuals with raw emotionality, Taj has directed and art-directed music videos for leading artists across R&B, hip-hop, and pop — including Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, Usher, John Legend and Mary J Blige (to name a few) — creating memorable, culturally resonant imagery that amplifies artists’ identities. His music-video work is characterized by striking composition, purposeful color palettes, and an intimate attention to performance that elevates narrative and mood.

Beyond music, Taj applies his multidisciplinary skill set to commercial and print projects for brands and companies such as Nike, Apple, Adidas, Samsung, Spotify, and Revolve, delivering culturally attuned, art-forward visual solutions. He brings a director’s eye to every frame — whether storyboard, set design, or final edit — ensuring cohesive storytelling that performs across platforms.

As Creative Director for Lonely In May, Taj shapes the label’s visual language and strategic creative output. He leads campaigns, visual identities, and collaborative projects that position Lonely In May at the intersection of music, fashion, and contemporary art, fostering a consistent aesthetic while allowing for bold experimentation.

Accolades:

  • Multiple MTV Video Music Award nominations for Best Direction and Best Cinematography

  • Creator of the VICE Series, “THE THERAPIST”

  • BET Award nominee and winners’ circuit recognition for Outstanding Video

  • AICP and D&AD recognitions for commercial and branded work

  • Cannes Lions shortlist and festival selections for branded content and music videos

  • Featured in publications such as Vibe, Forbes, The FADER, Complex, and Variety for contributions to music and visual culture

Taj’s practice is collaborative, detail-driven, and rooted in a desire to reflect lived experience through polished visual craft. His work continues to evolve at the crossroads of Oakland authenticity and Los Angeles production ambition, contributing to a distinct visual vocabulary in contemporary music and culture.