Love this video, I preach independence everyday!!! It’s been just under 3 years since my first release and now I’ve just passed 2 billion streams across DSPs all independently, I’ve met with every major label in North America and swear I’ll never sign my masters away. Believe in yourself and don’t give away your art for free. I’m from Australia and I guarantee you I earn more than just about any Australia artist but I’m relatively unknown to the mainstream, but what matters to me is having sustaining career and owning all of my art!!! Russ’s way is the future 🙌🏼💛🔥
This is why, as flawed as UA-cam, Spotify, Pandora, and SoundCloud are, I admire the fact that they’re giving young artists the tools to be successful independent from predatory record companies.
As a performing/recording musician and music educator for the last 26 years, I have to say that Spotify and streaming under all of the streaming pay out rates since the beginning is now helping us. It's actually hurting musicians and composers/songwriters. We make parts of parts of a part of a penny per every 1000 streams if, IF... we are 100% I dependent and we do all the work on promo/marketing and publishing and own all rights. If you're with a label, you get even a smaller piece of the pie. We would make more selling 300 album downloads/vinyl LP's/CDs than having 3,000,000 streams of 1 song.... It's hurting us. Do you have any idea how much studio time costs?! How much it costs for engineers to record, the cost for mixing expeculially if you're diversifying with streaming, medium quality digital downloads and hi quality (flac) and vinyl?!
Russ is my spirit animal. I adopted his release model and have already seen huge progress in just over a year. It works but the only catch is, it's ruthless consistency. You gotta be really driven to go for it. Goodluck to all artists out there!
There's a lot of great successful independent artists out there... Kota the Friend, Curren$y, Larry June, Dom Kennedy, Money Man, Le$, Mick Jenkins, Saba, Joey Badass, Earl Sweatshirt, etc.
No advance money no royalty split no section in contract detailing keeping only 50% - completely 100% ownership - planned and manifested. It can happen to you and it will. Believe
Probably the most important thing about his story is his support structure. To be able to tour then come back home means he had a strong foundation to launch from. That is extremely important. I'm glad he spoke about it.
Preach! I've started on the independent route quite recently, yes I think about signing to labels sometimes but then I realize that I have no requirement of one, I live with my parente, my bills aren't high. Being from India, mainstream is a very important part but making connections can get you there. Got nationally featured a few days ago on the radio with my third release, anyone can do it as long as you believe in yourself. You got this! Keep grinding!
I truly believe independent artists are the future of the music industry despite how difficult it is to make it. Love how Russ is calling out the fakes within the industry (rap and pop)
The'll be fked soon, first they lost sales because of napster so the started turning to taxing artists tours. When artists wake up and realise they can write produce and colab all by computer lables will be obselete. Theyll be the ambulance chasers of the music world.
They need to learn the system and the tech and the background logistics. But that's too much hard work for the average sheep. The ones that win that mental struggle and have actual talent win at the game.
i have been releasing music for 10 years and within the last 3 years i have started to see success, with this year being my most successful. Russ does have a right to be arrogant because he spent so much time on his own believing in himself and making it happen for himself while being ignored by mainstream .
@@SpeedyUsher I haven't heard any of his music but I do know that the industry and mainstream always ignore independent artists unless the artist makes music that deem independent
8:26 RUSS didn't need the "safety net" of a new deal because he has a loving family with both "parents". A solid family structure provides stability. Only when we feel safe and comfortable in the moment can we clearly think about the future. I f/w RUSS on this toppic too just wanted to clarify that point
@@marcakkuskickinwing6450 its amazing how much you know about me from reading a few words under a youtube comment. How will i die marc the wise oracle of the web 🔮😱 ✨
A lot of these artists don’t have a good budget plan (and are illiterate in terms of financial management), are surrounded by yes people hence the brokenness, bankruptcy
I love how over 10 years of no label and gaining leverage he didn’t even fully sign completely he partnered*** that’s very impressive and you gotta give respect.
Ryan Upchurch did it totally independent and even met with a big label just to expose their bs and tell them to fk off 😉😂 Upchurch has been doing it forever and telling his fans how, WITHOUT the industry. It just sucks that none of these new artists listen to these guys.
Ryan Upchurch did it totally independent and even met with a big label just to expose their bs and tell them to fk off 😉😂 Upchurch has been doing it forever and telling his fans how, WITHOUT the industry. It just sucks that none of these new artists listen to these guys.
Fax? You mean facts? A fax is a communication sent through an electric code that allows a machine to print out the encryption. Stop, stop trying to change language
Not my kind of music, but I have a lot of respect for Russ. He succeeded because he believed in his talent, understood the industry, and found the ideal distribution method to get the most exposure. A lot of musicians, regardless of genre, see that initial $$$ contract, blow through it, and end up captive to their contracts.
I’ve never really been a fan of his music but this dude really know how the game works and he shouts it from the roof top for anyone to hear it. That’s commendable.
Back in the 80's you needed a label because it cost a lot of money to record and press vinyl and then you needed distribution to get it into shops and contacts to get radio play and there were no other options other than being a local pub band. But today with digital media all of the production and marketing is easily within your power. So it kind of amazes me that labels still get away with it.
Félix Gallardo had warrants dating back to 1976 idk why they started the show in 1980. Don Neto/Mentor was trafficking heroin by 1973. Rafa was growing weed in 1972 Félix Gallardo tenía órdenes judiciales que se remontaban a 1976, sin saber por qué comenzaron el programa en 1980. Don Neto traficaba heroína en 1973. Rafa cultivaba marihuana en 1972.
@A B Well, yes - in the UK a lot of bands go on welfare. Sting famously did so. And I'm guessing Russ's priority was his music rather than starting a family... and frankly, I've met a lot of people who aren't willing to go through severe hardships in order to break through - not everyone can handle that.
Interview Kota the Friend, he did the same thing. He would drop like a song a week or upload one of his 'lyrics to go'. After a few years and a couple albums later, he's finally starting to catch the buzz he deserves.
@Anglitu TechTM or they could just Go to their own profile and... Tap Settings. Tap Account. Tap Request Verification. Fill in the application form. Your legal name. Your “known as” or working name (if applicable) ... Tap Send. Why the fuck they need you to do shit for em....who are you supposed to be 🤣 👎
Tried getting into Russ music, and it's not for me. But I love the man. He actually has an audiobook that's great and discusses his mindset. Fantastic addition to my library
I just saw him in concert @ the beginning of October and this dude blew my mind on the things he was saying throughout. He might have arrogance but he loves his fans and the support and words he shared was so different than anything I’ve seen from anyone. I haven’t been to hundreds of concerts but I’ve been to my fair share and for all different genres and his vibe was so chill and welcoming even though the show was hype as hell
if you are broke and someone offers you a deal saying "drake got this deal" it seems hard for most people to control their excitement. But people like Russ help cool people off. But if i may be honest, it's only a few mil, plus the idea that things you don't need will make you happy is bs. Instead of people complaining how labels get most of the money, i'd rather see people happy with a few hundred k a year and be passionate about spreading good music, that's the goal isn't it?
@@Renzii checkout "Beef pt 1" 50 Cent talked about a deal in which he received 💰 but had to pay certain people & was only left w/a couple of hundred dollars.
Dope drop fam... I've been working on this for years and Russ is definitely one that gave me hope back, and he does all of what I do... Time to go harder!
Much respect to Russ. Never knew all of this. Very intelligent dude. Tom Macdonald is another one that’s fully independent and blowing up the charts. He hates record labels etc. definitely have so much respect for both of them and anyone putting in the work to succeed and not selling out signing their soul away
8:26 what Russ says is sooooo true. everyone has 3 minutes of time to listen to a song, but when someone releases an hour album it gets boring after like 6 songs in that you start skimming through the songs. so it’s hard to figure out the better songs from the worse in an entire album. releasing 1 song a week you figure out if you like it, if you like it you have the week to listen to a new song you like then next week comes another, if you don’t like the song you can just wait for next week and hope it’s better, which gets your hopes up for his new song.
Great video. Never heard of Russ until now. And though it's not my go to music that he creates, he has a great down to earth real attitude. He's definitely a real inspiration that we can all learn from . Way to go Russ... keep dropping them gems. All the best.
Much respect to Russ and his will to just keep going. I'm a car enthusiast and throughout the years you see many people come and go in the business because they quit. I remember when people where saying "90's Japanese cars are gonna blow up in value just wait", but it took years and years for people to even make $2,000 profit. Now those who stayed in the game have made possibly $30,000+ on a car they payed $8,000 for. To be fair that was somewhat gambling however all the math checked out as well as the demand. The lesson I learned is that you have to persevere to the end of your goals, quitting is not an option when you want financial freedom
Plz consider doing a piece on the wave of artists that peaked a few years back: Drake, Rihanna, Nikki, some smaller ones. What were their record deals like. Has anyone hot by 360 deals walked away in the black after the limelight fades?
It’s crazy how I was growing up and everyone was blackballing Ross, like if you were supposed to hate the man for no apparent reason... If the industry can’t control you then they try to destroy you! Stay save may God bless you all!
Absolutely in love with your music industry videos, hope we'll see more ! One on Nipsey Hussle would be great for his independance in music, his different business ventures and his social entrepreneur mindset.
Hey Spencer, also recommend checking out his book "Get Out of Your Way". A short and digestable read. Love the videos, man. You give us youtubers inspiration to keep going. I found you when you dropped that "Why your favorite artist is broke" video and just like Russ, i think that was your break out moment on this platform.
I LOVE Russ. You DON'T have to like his music. He's incredible. I drop a song every week & I will continue to becuase I have an unhealthy obsession, love and passion for music. I didn't know just how much he had to do it before he blew up. Thank you for this video it's going to keep me going! To every independant artist, doing that real hustle. LETS WORK, LETS FLIP OFF THE INDUSTRY WHILE WE AT IT XD
Inspiring narrative? Perhaps, but for every savvy super-hustler like this guy there are thousands who are just wasting their time and money on a dream that will not ever pan out. That's show biz, as they say... enter at your own risk.
The difference with people who are successful and those who are not is usually patience. Sure, luck, talent and connections all play a roll but the people who are dedicated to their craft usually make it in some form or another. At the very least paying the bills. Too many people see and want the lifestyle, those people give up when results don't come right away. The people who value what they are doing who have patience don't care if it takes a year, 10 years, 20 years 🤷♂️ Its a business, plenty of people arent successful in building one but those who are usually failed a few other things before finally getting it right
Super DOPE and relatable content. Hope people listen. Equity is the prime asset. Slow and lonely road but hands down the right way to do it. Russ figured out the game. Great job!
He’s right , leverage is supremely important in business negotiations. When you’re in a position of needing the other party more than they need you they can dictate the terms and get you to agree a deal that benefits them at your expense
I've been involved in various music scenes in the UK and I've seen countless musicians trying to break into the oversaturated industry and trying everything under the sun to become popular just the people they see on TV. The sad thing is they're so focused on trying to be the next Ed Sheeran or Adele that they don't focus on what's important: their music and skills. It breaks my heart when you realise they're only after the jetset lifestyle, money and respect but have virtually no understanding what really goes on behind the scenes or what it truly takes to get to the top. They don't like hearing that they are essentially an investment to those record labels and they NEED TO produce a positive return otherwise there will be consequences. The desperation for fame, wealth and respect causes people to resort to desperate measures just so they get as close as they can to that "dream".
That’s why I love bands like NOFX and The Vandals. Not only did they never sign to a major label, but they started their own indie labels and gave other bands a chance to make a living in the music industry without fucking them over. From what I understand, most of the album sales go to the musicians.
I did this. In 2020, taking Russ’s advice/lead, I released 1 song a week, EVERY week for the entire year. Prior to me doing this, I’ve released 14 full projects over the last 10yrs. Im still going to continue to make and release music. I believe in the music. My name is T’so.
I never heard any song from this guy... This is the very first time I'm hearing his name... But still he got my utmost Respect for just the way he understands money and it's effects in long term... 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
GOOD FOR HIM. i am SO SICK of leeches in all of the creative fields trying to get a cut of what we create. whether its music, writing, visual arts, etc. there are always companies and people that try to make themselves necessary for your work to be distributed. we have the internet people, these third parties are NO LONGER NECESSARY. good for him. love his music and glad to know he's 100% in ownership of himself. more creative people need to go this way.
I’ve been making making music for a while and turned down a few label deals because the numbers didn’t add up. Believe in your quality, it will pay off at the end.
Hi spencer, great video! I wanted to mention another artist that you should check out who recently got out of his contract with Warner Bros. and became independent again. His name is Phora!
Ive always f** with Russ, he’s unique and always putting good consistent songs & he gets hate 😂 like why tho also Russ is on his own meaning he’s confident and doesn’t need nobody’s shit
@Jose Godinez you just answered your own question dude! Russ is on his own meaning, is confident and doesn't take sh*t from anyone. He can demand his own terms and the industry cannot own him....that's why they hate him.
Russ isnt an angel. He ist aggressive and rude. Look up some more details. I started disliking him when I found out he jumped a podcast host that critizized him.
A high school friend broke this down for me...we were in 12th grade when his band got signed and went to New York to cut an album (his mother made the label pay for a tutor, BTW). They did the album. There was a management change and the new honcho decided to "shelf" the album ("we're going in a new direction") and dropped the band...which broke up. He got into session work and production, "old and wise the hard way and barely 22 years old." Fun fact: according to Ari Herstand, 98% of new acts signed to major labels fail...and get dropped. A new A&R VP was all it took for my friend's band to get 86'd...
Didn't Macklemore do this before Russ? Macklemore put out the song "Jimmy Iovine" talking about his experience with labels. He became big without a major label...
if that's all he did then that's nowhere near what Russ did and has done. it literally had to be a fucking miracle for Russ too blow up and keep people coming back to listen to "one song albums" before he started putting out full length studio albums again
I've personally never heard of Russ, but much respect to him. It's an accomplishment to do what he did. I hope more artists go the route of skipping label contracts!
Macklemore isnt the first and if he was (but he isnt) no one really says it compared to Russ. Theres other independent artist that got big on their own in the past like Hopsin or tech9 and if you wanna go OG then Ludacris and DJ Jazzy Jeff. So, Macklemore def not the first.
Love this video, I preach independence everyday!!! It’s been just under 3 years since my first release and now I’ve just passed 2 billion streams across DSPs all independently, I’ve met with every major label in North America and swear I’ll never sign my masters away. Believe in yourself and don’t give away your art for free. I’m from Australia and I guarantee you I earn more than just about any Australia artist but I’m relatively unknown to the mainstream, but what matters to me is having sustaining career and owning all of my art!!!
Russ’s way is the future 🙌🏼💛🔥
You have such awesome songs. I love them so much. ❤
I just wanna know how do u release your songs in Spotify etc without a label record please answer me
gonna check out your music
@@harmacy4252 I have heard that distrokid stole money from people without they feel
You have a sick artstyle tbh
This is why, as flawed as UA-cam, Spotify, Pandora, and SoundCloud are, I admire the fact that they’re giving young artists the tools to be successful independent from predatory record companies.
Spotify is saving the music industry almost single-handedly. Wake up people come on 😂
@@dennisdobrovolsky9810 saving? You mean destroying right? Please tell me that was a mis-type
@@LildawgBigbite how destroying
As a performing/recording musician and music educator for the last 26 years, I have to say that Spotify and streaming under all of the streaming pay out rates since the beginning is now helping us. It's actually hurting musicians and composers/songwriters. We make parts of parts of a part of a penny per every 1000 streams if, IF... we are 100% I dependent and we do all the work on promo/marketing and publishing and own all rights. If you're with a label, you get even a smaller piece of the pie. We would make more selling 300 album downloads/vinyl LP's/CDs than having 3,000,000 streams of 1 song.... It's hurting us. Do you have any idea how much studio time costs?! How much it costs for engineers to record, the cost for mixing expeculially if you're diversifying with streaming, medium quality digital downloads and hi quality (flac) and vinyl?!
Russ is my spirit animal. I adopted his release model and have already seen huge progress in just over a year. It works but the only catch is, it's ruthless consistency. You gotta be really driven to go for it. Goodluck to all artists out there!
LMAO you said Russ is your spirit animal. Cheers, and good luck to you as well.
Can someone help me understand, what is the release model? When he said single albums every week is that single every week?
@@ajayburra6958 he released a single online every week. This was back when he was mostly on soundcloud.com
@@realromanvice - Neat. Thanks.
Russ is trash
He reminds me a lot of how Nipsey Hussle went about creating "leverage" and then owning his masters before labels. Great Video!
He was influenced by him, he said it a few times
For sure. Mac Miller too.
There's a lot of great successful independent artists out there... Kota the Friend, Curren$y, Larry June, Dom Kennedy, Money Man, Le$, Mick Jenkins, Saba, Joey Badass, Earl Sweatshirt, etc.
Label will never sign you if they don't get at least 50% of the rights.
King Von too
He's really trying to put people on game and the industry hates him for it
He knows his shit for sure.
what i wanna is how do people find these artists?
@gid people need to stop being so emotional and take the info they need and apply it
@@1_Lando It's not always what you're saying but sometimes how you're saying. True wisdom is knowing that both matter.
Dude needs special protection for all these interviews
No advance money no royalty split no section in contract detailing keeping only 50% - completely 100% ownership - planned and manifested. It can happen to you and it will. Believe
🍺🍹🍸🥃🥤🤙
💯🙌🏾⏳
That’s the ONLY way to keep your art for real 🙌🏽
🙌🙌🙌
thanks luv
Probably the most important thing about his story is his support structure. To be able to tour then come back home means he had a strong foundation to launch from. That is extremely important. I'm glad he spoke about it.
Very key🎯🎯🎯
His family didn't have money though, he had a home to come to after touring bc he was paying his family's rent.
@@JNJ1014 a strong foundation doesn’t mean a rich family bro
Probably a trust fund kid. How did he support himself.?
Preach! I've started on the independent route quite recently, yes I think about signing to labels sometimes but then I realize that I have no requirement of one, I live with my parente, my bills aren't high. Being from India, mainstream is a very important part but making connections can get you there.
Got nationally featured a few days ago on the radio with my third release, anyone can do it as long as you believe in yourself. You got this! Keep grinding!
Hii... I'm really interested in music.. Please send me your insta id.. I would like to contact you
I truly believe independent artists are the future of the music industry despite how difficult it is to make it. Love how Russ is calling out the fakes within the industry (rap and pop)
The'll be fked soon, first they lost sales because of napster so the started turning to taxing artists tours. When artists wake up and realise they can write produce and colab all by computer lables will be obselete. Theyll be the ambulance chasers of the music world.
They need to learn the system and the tech and the background logistics. But that's too much hard work for the average sheep. The ones that win that mental struggle and have actual talent win at the game.
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
He’s not Independent
Support and listen to local artist , check my channel out (literally cost nothing if you already on here) just a click away , thanks 🙏🏽
Prince was someone who pushed ownership long before most people today.
Good for him and glad that his message is being pushed harder than ever today
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
100% correct
Facts he isn’t doing anything new
After the label screwed him up
i have been releasing music for 10 years and within the last 3 years i have started to see success, with this year being my most successful. Russ does have a right to be arrogant because he spent so much time on his own believing in himself and making it happen for himself while being ignored by mainstream .
He makes painfully average music. Who the hell is he to front on anyone? He's not that good.
@@SpeedyUsher I haven't heard any of his music but I do know that the industry and mainstream always ignore independent artists unless the artist makes music that deem independent
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
@@SpeedyUsher tbh if you actually listen to his music then you would know that he doesn’t make average music
@@fokyu1188 I DID actually listen to his music. What are you talking about?
Conspiracy: All of the 'Russ is trash' memes were paid advertising by the industry to try and thwart his following.
Russ said when he was a meme, he was making bank cos everyone knew who he was
Plot twist: Russ paid for that meme campaign himself
@Anthony Salerno I doubt anyone bought the memes, but I like his music and mad respect for being a solo artists
Russ posted this comment to his insta haha
Russ posted this lmao
8:26 RUSS didn't need the "safety net" of a new deal because he has a loving family with both "parents". A solid family structure provides stability. Only when we feel safe and comfortable in the moment can we clearly think about the future.
I f/w RUSS on this toppic too just wanted to clarify that point
you obvi dont listen to russ...
@@marcakkuskickinwing6450 its amazing how much you know about me from reading a few words under a youtube comment.
How will i die marc the wise oracle of the web 🔮😱 ✨
@@nomoregoodlife1255 parkstone drive
@@marcakkuskickinwing6450 lets make a promise to one-another not to give up ♥
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
Thanks!
Not too many people have the hustle to produce so much work AND the business savvy. Good on Russ.
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love. !
Support and listen to local artist , check my channel out (literally cost nothing if you already on here) just a click away , thanks 🙏🏽
I'm very impressed ...at 22 he already put out 11 projects
@Pete bruh u didn’t listen to it yet
@@jg1692 no
A lot of these artists don’t have a good budget plan (and are illiterate in terms of financial management), are surrounded by yes people hence the brokenness, bankruptcy
what about cardi b
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
Xt55ffyg 7 hhacaaxu 7 h),8y(
Yes true. They even spend b4 they get. The record label give them all sorts of goodies to make sure they drown in debt
Bling bling.
Might not like Russ music but he is a goat for this and has my respect
These vids are SO ENTERTAINING & INFORMATIVE. I'm addicted to this channel
The music industry ones are so interesting. Didn't realise how messed up it really was.
@@YannickMakesmusic123 this ain't it.
Support and listen to local artist , check my channel out (literally cost nothing if you already on here) just a click away , thanks 🙏🏽
I love how over 10 years of no label and gaining leverage he didn’t even fully sign completely he partnered*** that’s very impressive and you gotta give respect.
Ryan Upchurch did it totally independent and even met with a big label just to expose their bs and tell them to fk off 😉😂
Upchurch has been doing it forever and telling his fans how, WITHOUT the industry. It just sucks that none of these new artists listen to these guys.
Ryan Upchurch did it totally independent and even met with a big label just to expose their bs and tell them to fk off 😉😂
Upchurch has been doing it forever and telling his fans how, WITHOUT the industry. It just sucks that none of these new artists listen to these guys.
MIX MASTERED ENGINEERED WRITTEN BY RUSS.
you're damn right
And Produced by Russ
Lmao
I do the same with my brother 👍🏾
And performed 🥰
the fax in this were straighter than burj khalifa. Stay independent
yo flute gang
📠
@Three Stacks what
Fax? You mean facts? A fax is a communication sent through an electric code that allows a machine to print out the encryption. Stop, stop trying to change language
@@beautifulcaramelman no one cares, yet you felt compelled to respond, showing, you do in fact care. Predictable.
Even if someone is not making songs but still is an artist or passionate about something, this is the way to go. Have proof of what you are all about
True
True
In his song “What They Want”, a lot of the lyrics was basically the description of his reality. It talked about what he’s been saying.
A music revolutionary. More power to him. Music labels screw over those who have a passion to make music.
@@YannickMakesmusic123 stay gold, any day now ⏳🙌🏾💯
@@mudnocchio ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾 thanks man. Everyone gotta eat.
Not my kind of music, but I have a lot of respect for Russ. He succeeded because he believed in his talent, understood the industry, and found the ideal distribution method to get the most exposure. A lot of musicians, regardless of genre, see that initial $$$ contract, blow through it, and end up captive to their contracts.
I’ve never really been a fan of his music but this dude really know how the game works and he shouts it from the roof top for anyone to hear it. That’s commendable.
Back in the 80's you needed a label because it cost a lot of money to record and press vinyl and then you needed distribution to get it into shops and contacts to get radio play and there were no other options other than being a local pub band. But today with digital media all of the production and marketing is easily within your power. So it kind of amazes me that labels still get away with it.
Félix Gallardo had warrants dating back to 1976 idk why they started the show in 1980. Don Neto/Mentor was trafficking heroin by 1973. Rafa was growing weed in 1972
Félix Gallardo tenía órdenes judiciales que se remontaban a 1976, sin saber por qué comenzaron el programa en 1980. Don Neto traficaba heroína en 1973. Rafa cultivaba marihuana en 1972.
VERY few people are willing (or able) to put that kind of work in.
This is it!
@A B Well, yes - in the UK a lot of bands go on welfare. Sting famously did so. And I'm guessing Russ's priority was his music rather than starting a family... and frankly, I've met a lot of people who aren't willing to go through severe hardships in order to break through - not everyone can handle that.
Even those who go to school and take out student loans for music I see it they graduate and give up. They graduate and slow down
@@Gainsforlife It can be really hard to keep going if you don't see any tangible results.
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
Interview Kota the Friend, he did the same thing. He would drop like a song a week or upload one of his 'lyrics to go'. After a few years and a couple albums later, he's finally starting to catch the buzz he deserves.
Anyone else wanna see Spencer do an interview with Russ?
Great idea
Yes!
Yes
Who is therennnbj
Yes! This has to happen soon 💪
Who's here from Russ' stories?
Im looking for a pop smoke type sample
@Anglitu TechTM or they could just Go to their own profile and...
Tap Settings.
Tap Account.
Tap Request Verification.
Fill in the application form. Your legal name. Your “known as” or working name (if applicable) ...
Tap Send.
Why the fuck they need you to do shit for em....who are you supposed to be 🤣 👎
Is this a trend 🤔 😳
North Fork nope i guess its for learning
@@YannickMakesmusic123 not this. Don't self promote pls
Sometimes all we need is a basement and a small support group that believes us. That alone is enough to have headspace n be productive
@Austin Findley Same!
facts!
I respect his spirit, his hard work, ambition and dedication!!!🔥
Russ is my man!!! He beat the system and has made millions! You can't hate the man, only respect!
Tried getting into Russ music, and it's not for me. But I love the man. He actually has an audiobook that's great and discusses his mindset. Fantastic addition to my library
Thank you for putting me onto Russ
whats your favorite album so far?
I just saw him in concert @ the beginning of October and this dude blew my mind on the things he was saying throughout. He might have arrogance but he loves his fans and the support and words he shared was so different than anything I’ve seen from anyone. I haven’t been to hundreds of concerts but I’ve been to my fair share and for all different genres and his vibe was so chill and welcoming even though the show was hype as hell
Every musical artist should know what they are getting in to up front before signing a deal.
if you are broke and someone offers you a deal saying "drake got this deal" it seems hard for most people to control their excitement. But people like Russ help cool people off. But if i may be honest, it's only a few mil, plus the idea that things you don't need will make you happy is bs. Instead of people complaining how labels get most of the money, i'd rather see people happy with a few hundred k a year and be passionate about spreading good music, that's the goal isn't it?
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
Can somebody give me an example of a deal that record labels make?
@@Renzii checkout "Beef pt 1" 50 Cent talked about a deal in which he received 💰 but had to pay certain people & was only left w/a couple of hundred dollars.
My dad always told me that before signing something i better fucking read and know what i am signing for
Dope drop fam... I've been working on this for years and Russ is definitely one that gave me hope back, and he does all of what I do... Time to go harder!
He describe stockholm syndrome without knowing whats is stockholm syndrome!
💯. I love Russ, he's doing it his way and navigating the industry in a shrewd way.
I mean the syndrome existed before the word was created.
@dread true i think it was coined after a bank robbery/hostage situation in stockholm.
He has probably heard of it before and didn't know the term or maybe he wanted to put it in layman terms for the viewers.
he explained it well enough. no one gives a fuck that you learned about it freshman year of college
Much respect to Russ. Never knew all of this. Very intelligent dude. Tom Macdonald is another one that’s fully independent and blowing up the charts. He hates record labels etc. definitely have so much respect for both of them and anyone putting in the work to succeed and not selling out signing their soul away
Russ is a man I respect highly. How can you not after hearing his story?
Lots people hate on innocent people you might even be one of those haters
The fact i never heard of him says enough about the influence labels have
First time I've ever heard of Russ, and he's already an inspiration to me. Mad props to him getting to where he is now.
You’re about to reach your 100,000 subs🙌 Love the content, man. Very informative.
Leverage is something I wish I had whenever I find myself looking for a new job.
You'd think that our thousands of dollars of education would give us that right. But it doesn't. This world is twisted
8:26 what Russ says is sooooo true. everyone has 3 minutes of time to listen to a song, but when someone releases an hour album it gets boring after like 6 songs in that you start skimming through the songs. so it’s hard to figure out the better songs from the worse in an entire album. releasing 1 song a week you figure out if you like it, if you like it you have the week to listen to a new song you like then next week comes another, if you don’t like the song you can just wait for next week and hope it’s better, which gets your hopes up for his new song.
Great video. Never heard of Russ until now. And though it's not my go to music that he creates, he has a great down to earth real attitude. He's definitely a real inspiration that we can all learn from . Way to go Russ... keep dropping them gems. All the best.
Much respect to Russ and his will to just keep going. I'm a car enthusiast and throughout the years you see many people come and go in the business because they quit. I remember when people where saying "90's Japanese cars are gonna blow up in value just wait", but it took years and years for people to even make $2,000 profit. Now those who stayed in the game have made possibly $30,000+ on a car they payed $8,000 for. To be fair that was somewhat gambling however all the math checked out as well as the demand. The lesson I learned is that you have to persevere to the end of your goals, quitting is not an option when you want financial freedom
Plz consider doing a piece on the wave of artists that peaked a few years back: Drake, Rihanna, Nikki, some smaller ones. What were their record deals like. Has anyone hot by 360 deals walked away in the black after the limelight fades?
It’s crazy how I was growing up and everyone was blackballing Ross, like if you were supposed to hate the man for no apparent reason... If the industry can’t control you then they try to destroy you! Stay save may God bless you all!
Absolutely in love with your music industry videos, hope we'll see more !
One on Nipsey Hussle would be great for his independance in music, his different business ventures and his social entrepreneur mindset.
If u are an independent artist and u don't like Russ I don't know what u rly doing. This man speaks truth.
Hey Spencer, also recommend checking out his book "Get Out of Your Way". A short and digestable read. Love the videos, man. You give us youtubers inspiration to keep going. I found you when you dropped that "Why your favorite artist is broke" video and just like Russ, i think that was your break out moment on this platform.
I have no idea how I found your channel but I’ve been binging these videos
I LOVE Russ. You DON'T have to like his music. He's incredible. I drop a song every week & I will continue to becuase I have an unhealthy obsession, love and passion for music. I didn't know just how much he had to do it before he blew up. Thank you for this video it's going to keep me going! To every independant artist, doing that real hustle. LETS WORK, LETS FLIP OFF THE INDUSTRY WHILE WE AT IT XD
I've always RUSSpected Russ since the beginning! Truly a legendary artist.
Inspiring narrative? Perhaps, but for every savvy super-hustler like this guy there are thousands who are just wasting their time and money on a dream that will not ever pan out. That's show biz, as they say... enter at your own risk.
The difference with people who are successful and those who are not is usually patience. Sure, luck, talent and connections all play a roll but the people who are dedicated to their craft usually make it in some form or another. At the very least paying the bills.
Too many people see and want the lifestyle, those people give up when results don't come right away.
The people who value what they are doing who have patience don't care if it takes a year, 10 years, 20 years 🤷♂️
Its a business, plenty of people arent successful in building one but those who are usually failed a few other things before finally getting it right
Support independent artists and sub to my channel please 🙌🏿💯 1 click of a button and its free. Spread love.
Just look into who Russ' pops is
@@ChadRockwell They don't give up they just aren't good enough
Respect for your grind brother
Super DOPE and relatable content. Hope people listen. Equity is the prime asset. Slow and lonely road but hands down the right way to do it. Russ figured out the game. Great job!
He’s right , leverage is supremely important in business negotiations. When you’re in a position of needing the other party more than they need you they can dictate the terms and get you to agree a deal that benefits them at your expense
Did UA-cam really put a 50 min ad on this video? 🤦🏽♀️🤦🏽♀️
are you joking or you got a 50 minute ad?
@@johnmax7991 no joke, I had to do a double take & the next one was 40 mins 😑
@@haitianchick5091 wow that's ridiculous
@@johnmax7991 beyond ridiculous
i have adblocker so i wouldn't know....
Russ honestly upgraded my mindset, business & music so much since listening to him.
I've been involved in various music scenes in the UK and I've seen countless musicians trying to break into the oversaturated industry and trying everything under the sun to become popular just the people they see on TV. The sad thing is they're so focused on trying to be the next Ed Sheeran or Adele that they don't focus on what's important: their music and skills.
It breaks my heart when you realise they're only after the jetset lifestyle, money and respect but have virtually no understanding what really goes on behind the scenes or what it truly takes to get to the top. They don't like hearing that they are essentially an investment to those record labels and they NEED TO produce a positive return otherwise there will be consequences. The desperation for fame, wealth and respect causes people to resort to desperate measures just so they get as close as they can to that "dream".
That’s why I love bands like NOFX and The Vandals. Not only did they never sign to a major label, but they started their own indie labels and gave other bands a chance to make a living in the music industry without fucking them over. From what I understand, most of the album sales go to the musicians.
So true
Thank you because of you I got to know Russ few months ago and I came back to say thank you.
Tech Nine & Hopsin laid the blueprint for making it independently.
Hopsin had investors tho so he still had some help
@@KeithRobTV you can still be independent with investors you can’t even start a business without any start up capital etc
@@KeithRobTV Russ ain’t do it alone either
Nah, Master P, Too short, JT THE BIGGA FIGGA, and E-40 been did that.
Who invested in Hopsin?
I did this. In 2020, taking Russ’s advice/lead, I released 1 song a week, EVERY week for the entire year. Prior to me doing this, I’ve released 14 full projects over the last 10yrs. Im still going to continue to make and release music. I believe in the music. My name is T’so.
Glad I found this channel. You definitely have my respect my friend
I liked this one. This was the first one that wasn’t just a complete scam but an actual good business model. Loved this one. Appreciate the insight.
As much as I dislike Russ as a person... I must respect the path he's paved for independent artists
Ya know whatever you don't like about another person you dislike about yourself or feel you lack that....
@coosee :v Your welcome anytime. Might I also suggest therapy? I hear it it works wonders
This showed up in my recommended and now I'm a subscriber. Well done sir.
Not a fan of his music, but I'm a big fan of how he did it all his way. His business knowledge is incredible
Hell I'm coming up on 2 years running this channel with little to no views, but the hustle is real man.
I never heard any song from this guy... This is the very first time I'm hearing his name... But still he got my utmost Respect for just the way he understands money and it's effects in long term... 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Russ Speaks tha Fuckin "Truth" this is one of tha guys has awaken me about how tha music industry works he's very inspirational 💯
I've been watching Russ's videos across SM and he's got balls. My kinda vibe
Russ is an inspiration & a true example of long term determination.
Thank you so much Russ for sharing your knowledge with the world. You're an huge inspiration to all artists including myself, stay blessed!
This made me smile. I love independent creators
Tai Lopez: Knowledge
Russ: Leverage
Tai lopez is scam
Watch his curb video
U and rus alone kept me from quiting just know that bro this video changed my life 100
Short answer: Because he didn't sell his soul.
Oh brother 🙄
This video is actually very helpful....learned some new stuff
haven't even listened to his music and he's already my favorite artist
Spencer keep the good work up we need you !
The guy is just passionate bout his shit he knows he’s worth💪🏾
GOOD FOR HIM. i am SO SICK of leeches in all of the creative fields trying to get a cut of what we create. whether its music, writing, visual arts, etc. there are always companies and people that try to make themselves necessary for your work to be distributed. we have the internet people, these third parties are NO LONGER NECESSARY. good for him. love his music and glad to know he's 100% in ownership of himself. more creative people need to go this way.
"Complete ownership" very important 👏
Thank You gives me hope as an artist from UK this is great content!
Hey Russ just shouted this video out on his story, he said it was fire! 🔥
I've learned a lot from your channel. All I can say is thanks for the effort you put in.
I've still got "Cherry Hill" on my playlist even after three years. It's actually a song I play when I wake up in the morning.
I’ve been making making music for a while and turned down a few label deals because the numbers didn’t add up. Believe in your quality, it will pay off at the end.
Hi spencer, great video! I wanted to mention another artist that you should check out who recently got out of his contract with Warner Bros. and became independent again. His name is Phora!
Thank you so much for talking more about this! 🙏🏾
Ive always f** with Russ, he’s unique and always putting good consistent songs & he gets hate 😂 like why tho also Russ is on his own meaning he’s confident and doesn’t need nobody’s shit
@Jose Godinez you just answered your own question dude! Russ is on his own meaning, is confident and doesn't take sh*t from anyone. He can demand his own terms and the industry cannot own him....that's why they hate him.
Russ isnt an angel. He ist aggressive and rude. Look up some more details. I started disliking him when I found out he jumped a podcast host that critizized him.
@@MrYugideck ur acting like celebrity haven’t done that too stop riding the bandwagon hate
@@MrYugideck maybe the podcast host deserved it lol
@@MrYugideck grow a pair
A high school friend broke this down for me...we were in 12th grade when his band got signed and went to New York to cut an album (his mother made the label pay for a tutor, BTW). They did the album. There was a management change and the new honcho decided to "shelf" the album ("we're going in a new direction") and dropped the band...which broke up. He got into session work and production, "old and wise the hard way and barely 22 years old."
Fun fact: according to Ari Herstand, 98% of new acts signed to major labels fail...and get dropped. A new A&R VP was all it took for my friend's band to get 86'd...
Didn't Macklemore do this before Russ? Macklemore put out the song "Jimmy Iovine" talking about his experience with labels. He became big without a major label...
if that's all he did then that's nowhere near what Russ did and has done. it literally had to be a fucking miracle for Russ too blow up and keep people coming back to listen to "one song albums" before he started putting out full length studio albums again
I've personally never heard of Russ, but much respect to him. It's an accomplishment to do what he did. I hope more artists go the route of skipping label contracts!
Macklemore isnt the first and if he was (but he isnt) no one really says it compared to Russ. Theres other independent artist that got big on their own in the past like Hopsin or tech9 and if you wanna go OG then Ludacris and DJ Jazzy Jeff. So, Macklemore def not the first.
Subtract 30 points for mentioning Macklemore
@Tyrone jacobs jr Ludacris was around before he got signed...hence the name of his first album.
Super packed with information, super inspiring for an artist who has worked in many modes and given up too many times to pay the bills