BY: Alexis Eichelberger

You may not have heard of Melina Matsoukas yet, but you’re going to. And chances are, you’ve probably seen some of the many iconic and sexy music videos she’s behind, too.

Matsoukas is making headlines now for her directorial debut, which releases next month. Queen and Slim, starring Daniel Kaluuya of Get Out fame, is a romantic thriller described as a modern day Bonnie and Clyde story.

Despite only recently entering the world of feature film, Matsoukas has been directing music videos for high profile stars since 2006. She’s a frequent collaborator with Beyonce and Jay-Z, Keri Hilson, Ciara and Rihanna, to name just a few. Here are a few of our favorite videos directed by the rising filmmaker:

Beyonce’s “Formation”

The Lemonade era was a thing of true beauty, and nothing captures its energy more perfectly than the “Formation” music video. Matsoukas has given interviews in which she’s talked about the power of a visual’s composure, and we’re gifted with so many here. It’s a celebration of blackness in all eras, and it’s perfectly and meticulously executed from the wardrobe to choreography to frame changes.

Ludacris and Pharrell’s “Money Maker”

One of THE hip-hop songs of the early 2000’s helped establish Matsoukas as a leading music video director in 2006. “Money Maker” checks all the boxes of a video of its time while still remaining fun and fresh: it’s got the group of hot, scantily dressed women, the quick frame changes, the men in oversized shorts and polos. But it’s still fun and and oh-so dance enticing.

Rihanna and Calvin Harris’ “We Found Love”

One of Calvin Harris’ favorites to perform for his massive crowds, “We Found Love” is a wild delight and has a video to match. It shows Rihanna in all her glory in the kind of relationship that leaves you feeling intoxicated. Matsoukas’ work with light is especially stunning here. Her playing with fireworks, smoke, neon and sunshine makes the video glow from start to finish.

Lady Gaga’s “Just Dance”

The single that put Lady Gaga on the map is visualized with a glitterified party scene. It shows the aftermath and the revival thanks to Gaga, capturing her chaotic good energy and giving life to the infectious kind of pop she’d come to be known for.

Christina Aguilera’s “Your Body”

It starts: “WARNING. NO MEN WERE HARMED IN THE MAKING OF THIS VIDEO.” But that doesn’t stop Christina from taking what she wants and leaving men for dead throughout the video. It’s a fast-paced five minutes of pastel tinted violence with more than a hint of sexiness.