Russ started as an independent artist who released 11 mixtapes before signing with Columbia Records. Later he would become 100% independent again, and he shares what’s needed to make it as an independent artist and more!
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00:00 When it comes to being an independent artist, perhaps nobody is as loud and proud as Russ.
00:05 "It's not hip-hop's job to reaffirm what I already believe."
00:09 The smooth and talented MC is no stranger to the game and truly believes in it because he came back.
00:15 "Boo-hoo childhood trauma. Fucked up dad and a fucked up mama. Taught me that love means drama."
00:20 The "Do It Yourself" rapper released 11 mixtapes independently before signing with Columbia and releasing "There's Really a Wolf."
00:27 "I'm taking all the shots like Kobe, almost 81."
00:31 He released two more projects with the label and then in June 2020, he announced on IG he was 100% independent again.
00:38 "At first when adversity came I said why me? Now I be staring at doubt saying try me."
00:42 He's been super honest about the hustle at one point even posting his weekly earnings where fans could see hundreds of thousands of dollars he made.
00:50 "Money makes me handsome."
00:52 He told us about it back in 2020 after his Top 40 hit "Handsomer."
00:56 "It feels really wild considering when I was partnered with a major label, Best on Earth, it went number one at Radio and obviously Rihanna and all these things.
01:05 And I think it only got to like 46. So to go Top 40, just like super, super duper indie organic, you know, it's pretty insane."
01:13 A guy that's never afraid to call out the Grammys and yes, even the charts. If you're gonna be independent, believe in it like Russ.
01:21 (upbeat music)