Sanaa Hamri, Empire’s Brilliant Conductor

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by

Jason John
in ,

Sanaa Hamri is the beautiful mind responsible for Empire’s astonishing music videos.

“The conductor of an orchestra doesn’t make a sound.  He depends, for his power, on his ability to make other people powerful.” –Benjamin Zander

Sanaa Hamri Empire
Sanaa Hamri Empire

Sanaa Hamri holds a unique position on Empire, the talented director is the musical liaison, connecting the writers room, the actors, music producers and the show’s performers.  Hamri worked with Ne-Yo and Swizz Beatz to craft their tracks for the show and she also works with Timbaland and Jim Beanz to ensure the show’s songs fit specific scenes.

Hamri is a native of Tangier, Morocco.  Mariah Carey’s “Crybaby” video was the first video she directed and she has not looked back since! The talented director has worked with Common, Sting, Prince, Jadakiss to name a few.  Hamri directed “Super-Bass” and “Fly” for Nicki Minaj and that’s only where it starts!

Hamri’s film credits include “Something New”, “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2” and “Just Wright”.  Hamri has also directed numerous television shows including Nashville, Grey’s Anatomy and Desperate Housewives.

As if conducting Empire doesn’t keep Hamri busy enough, she somehow finds time to work on additional projects.  Hamri will direct “Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina”, Sierra Leonean-American ballerina Michaela DePrince’s memoir.
Taking Flight | Michaela DePrince
Taking Flight | Michaela DePrince

Hamri initially moved from Morocco to New York with dreams of becoming an actress.  Instead, Sanaa Hamri has become a conductor, empowering her orchestra one scene at a time.