Russ has been able to navigate the music industry as an independent artist in a lucrative fashion that many others aren’t able to replicate.
The Kanye West-inspired rhymer posted account balances to Instagram on Wednesday (July 27) showing off the bags he’s secured from TuneCore and his own distribution, then compared them to the minuscule first check he received from TuneCore in 2012.
“Inspirational purposes only,” he wrote. “April 2022. Half a million made off indie catalogue, just the master side. First slide is from my own distribution, second slide is Tunecore. Last slide is my first check ever independent. Make what you want. Stay consistent. Own it.”
Russ then added in his comment section, “Took 10 years but went from 29 cents to $500k. It’s possible.”
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Many of the New Jersey-born artist’s Hip Hop friends chimed in as well, like Rexx Life Raj and Bugus.
Video director Edgar Esteves wrote, “Russ, you’re a mudafucking legend so proud of you!”
With the music industry ever-changing, following Russ’ blueprint might not be for every musician, but he’s looking to inspire artists to know that financial security is possible without signing to a major label.
Russ Flexes $10M Bag Made Off Independent Market On Twitter
Russ gets back on the road in August for a European tour which will make stops in Germany, Italy, Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Belgium and the U.K.
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On the music side, Russ returned with an A-list collaboration, teaming up with Ed Sheeran for “Are You Entertained” on July 22.
