Meet Samuel McKnight

We were lucky to catch up with Samuel McKnight recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Samuel, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
I feel like I inherited my strong work ethic from both of my parents. My father, who grew up in Mississippi, experienced extreme poverty during his childhood. His mother’s house didn’t even have a bathroom or bathtub; instead, they had to use an outhouse. This was the living situation until I turned eight years old. Determined to have a better life, my father made the decision to join the military at the age of 17. A similar situation unfolded for my mother, who was raised in Oklahoma. Money was scarce in their household as she had six siblings. They often had to rely on hand-me-down clothes, and if those weren’t available, my grandmother would skillfully make clothes for them. Hearing these stories from my parents has had a profound impact on me, shaping me into the person I am today.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a Music Video Director based in Los Angeles, and this has been my dream job ever since I was a child. I am extremely passionate about my work, as I thoroughly enjoy the process of creating unique and captivating ideas for music videos. Collaborating with major artists is one of the highlights of my career, as it allows me to bring their vision to life through visual storytelling. It is an incredible feeling to see my favorite music videos, directed by talented individuals like myself, being broadcasted on television. Witnessing my own work being displayed on TV is truly inspiring and serves as a constant reminder of the impact I can make through my creative expression.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
To excel in the field you desire to major in, it is essential to conduct thorough research on the craft. Familiarize yourself with the works and accomplishments of renowned Music Video directors who have paved the way before you. This knowledge will not only expand your understanding of the industry but also serve as a source of inspiration and guidance as you embark on your own creative journey.

Networking is of paramount importance in this industry. Cultivating the ability to connect with like-minded individuals and bring different talents together is vital for creating memorable moments in music videos. Building a strong network can open doors to collaborative opportunities and enable you to showcase your skills to a wider audience.

Furthermore, developing a thick skin is crucial. Rejection and hearing the word “no” multiple times are inevitable in this field. However, it is important to persevere and remain resilient in the face of setbacks. Remember that even the most successful individuals have faced numerous rejections before achieving their breakthrough. Each “no” brings you closer to that one crucial “yes” that can change the trajectory of your career. So, embrace the challenges, learn from them, and let them fuel your determination to keep pushing forward.

Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
It is important to remember that whatever God has destined for you is meant specifically for you, and you should hold onto that truth firmly, even when others may doubt or discourage you. Despite any obstacles or negative opinions from people around you, it is crucial to never give up and to keep moving forward. Persistence and resilience are key to achieving your dreams and goals. Embrace the mindset that success is inevitable when you consistently pursue your aspirations with determination and unwavering faith. So, dare to dream big and believe in the power of your own potential, for the possibilities are endless when you trust in yourself and in the path that God has set before you.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Highlighter Series
Local Highlighter Series

We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and

Highlighter Series
Who taught you the most about work?

Society has its myths about where we learn – internships, books, school, etc. However, in

Highlighter Series
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?

We asked some of the wisest people we know what they would tell their younger