Jordan Asher Cruz, known professionally as Boots, is a multifaceted American artist whose career spans record production, songwriting, directing, and animation. He gained significant recognition for his innovative contributions to Beyoncé’s self-titled fifth studio album in 2013, where he produced 85% of the tracks and penned four original songs. His work on this album, along with its follow-up, Lemonade, earned him two Grammy Award nominations for Album of the Year, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the music industry.
Boots began his career as a member of various bands, including Young Circles and Blonds, before signing with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation in 2013. His collaboration with Beyoncé marked a turning point, as he not only contributed to the album’s production but also provided background vocals and instrumentation for the hit single “Drunk in Love.” His ability to blend experimental sounds with mainstream appeal has garnered praise from industry giants, including Beyoncé herself, who lauded him as an innovator.
In addition to his work with Beyoncé, Boots has released solo projects, including the mixtape “WinterSpringSummerFall” and singles like “Mercy” and “C.U.R.E.” His artistic vision extends beyond music; he directed the post-apocalyptic film Motorcycle Jesus and created the animated short film “No Future Here,” which received accolades at various film festivals.
With his production company, 13Lux Films, Boots continues to explore new creative avenues, developing animated series and film projects. His diverse talents and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries make him a standout figure in contemporary music and film.