Director Brent Campanelli Joins Expanding Roster at Tuff Contender

Brent Campanelli has signed with Tuff Contender for commercial and music video representation. Tuff Contender becomes the first production company to represent Campanelli who has created work for brands H&M, Macy's, McDonald's, Pepsi, Aveeno, Red Bull and directed music videos for artists Audrey Mika, Blackbear, and Phil Good, among others. 

“Brent’s work emits a kinetic energy that sticks with you,” explains Tuff Contender executive producer Max Rose. “You always hope when a reel hits like his does that you meet the director and their work is matched by their ability to articulate their vision. Brent has that gift to make everyone see exactly where he wants to go.”

Growing up as a musician and in skate/snowboard circles, Campanelli moved from filming action sport videos to sponsorship promos. Developing high-speed, in-your-face content formed his strong connection to the technical side behind the camera and penchant for cinematic exploration. His blended interests in music and cinematography initially led Campanelli to study film, with a concentration in post-production, at Emerson College.

“Ultimately, connecting with people on set – talent, crews, clients are what led me to focus on directing,” shares Campanelli. “Unraveling intuitions, exploring the languages between brands, and developing a look and feel for clients is where I like to be in the creative process. I am looking forward to growing with Tuff, a team I trust and can build with.”

In 2021, Tuff collaborated with Campanelli to produce Audrey Mika’s “Excuses” music video which has garnered more than a million views on YouTube. The recent release of his “@ My Worst” video from artist Blackbear via Columbia Records has earned more than five million views. 

Among his work with record labels Sony, Warner Music Group, Capitol and RCA, Campanelli has filmed experiences and live sessions with Usher, Noah Cyrus, and Ashe. Campanelli’s human-driven instincts and comedic signature have led him to collaborations with celebrity and influencer talent including Harry Shum Jr. (Crazy Rich Asians, Glee), Lil Yachty, and Hennessy Carolina. 

“We are excited to have Brent join us at Tuff Contender,” adds executive producer DJay Brawner. “Brent and I have had a working relationship and coming from similar music backgrounds has aligned us on a personal level. He has great instincts as a director and always works to elevate any idea or concept that’s in front of him. We look forward to forging this partnership further.”