In 1995, he was contacted by Interscope Records on behalf of Tupac Shakur to direct the video for “Dear Mama.” He formed a unique but brief relationship with the iconic rapper and his mother, Afeni Shakur, which resulted in directing four of his most memorable music videos: “Dear Mama,” “So Many Tears,” “Toss It Up,” and “I Wonder If Heaven Got a Ghetto.” As his clientele grew, his services rose in demand from several recording labels and music artists.
Through his connection with the Cold Chillin’ Crew, he directed his first music video for Roxanne Shante. Martin, a native of Queens, New York, became a trailblazing force when he helped launch the Video Music Box channel with his childhood friend, Ralph McDaniels, in 1983. During this time, he shot videos for TLC, Stevie Wonder, Public Enemy, Bell Biv Devoe, Big Daddy Kane, JAY-Z, Keith Sweat, Toni Braxton, Notorious B.I.G., and many more. He is responsible for giving Black music videos range and authenticity at a time when hip-hop and R&B desperately needed a pioneer to deliver quality products for the world to see. Spanning four decades, Martin’s videography showcases the great talents of the past three decades in popular music. Before there was Hype Williams, Little X, and Benny Boom, there was Lionel C.
