The Gold Standard: Jay-Z, LeBron James, Teyana Taylor, Spike Lee, Megan Thee Stallion, & More

A look inside the star-studded portrait series celebrating friendship, influence, and the biggest names across sports, music, and culture.

This photo essay appeared in Boardroom’s Fall Issue print magazine and has been adapted for online publication.

At Fanatics Fest over the summer, photographer Lenny Santiago turned a gold couch into a portrait studio for his Gold Standard project, bringing together some of the biggest names across sports, music, entertainment, and culture. Boardroom’s Fall Issue print magazine showcases portraits of Jay-Z, LeBron James, Teyana Taylor, Megan Thee Stallion, Spike Lee, Shaquille O’Neal, Taylor Rooks, Kevin Durant, and more.

For Santiago, the series is personal — a celebration of longtime friendships, mentors, collaborators, and the people who have shaped his journey.

LeBron James

Travis Scott

“Bron has been my bro since Jay embraced him very early on in his career. He’s come to countless dinners, events, and shows throughout the years where we’ve developed a trusted, safe space, and he always lets me shoot him. He, Savannah, and his whole team are the best, and I value their friendship. No matter how packed his schedule is, he always makes time to stop by the Gold Standard, even during weekends like Fanatics Fest.”

Jay-Z

Teyana Taylor

“Teyana hits different for me. Calling her my sister is an understatement. I met TT at the beginning of her career. I always believed in her and watched her grow. Watching her go from choreographing videos to earning an Oscar nomination has been completely mind-blowing. We’ve done so much together, and there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for her, her mom, Nikki, or her family. She’s one of the most genuine, authentic, and solid humans in life.”

Lil Baby

Spike Lee

“Baby has always been an artist I respect and admire. I think he’s an incredible lyricist and a solid individual. DJ Khaled has done several songs with him, and we were able to develop a relationship through that. He always shows love.”

Ja Rule

Trae Young

“Ja has been my brother since the ’90s. We had the pleasure of meeting early in our careers and built a bond during the Hard Knock Life Tour. I admired his drive and songwriting abilities. He’s been the same person from day one.”