Most film snobs I know are also music video snobs, still fetishizing their collected-works-of spike jones or michel gondry DVDs like college kids. However, one of the most slept on music video auteurs also happens to be one of the most acclaimed by major record labels, mainstream music publications and cable awards shows. The man is Hype Williams, and while his visual style has been co-opted by every rap/r’n'b artist of the past 15 years, he remains hip-hop’s master of gorgeously conceived visual candy. While he has never had a knack for story (Belly, anyone?) his command of the look of videos is unrivaled. I give you the 10 best.

Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys – Empire State of Mind

Mase – Feels So Good

Kanye West – Heartless

R Kelly and the Isley Brothers – The Down Low

Missy Elliot – The Rain

Kanye West – Amazing

Busta Rhymes and Janet Jackson – What’s It Gonna Be?

Method Man – Break Ups 2 Make Ups

Q-Tip – Breath and Stop

Kanye West – Heartless