Russ started playing professionally while in High School. Within 2 years he moved to Los Angeles and was signed to MGM Records in 1969 with his group “the Locomotive” which produced an LP of the same name. At that time LA was the recording capitol of the world and Russ had the benefit of advice from studio greats like Hal Blaine and multitudes of other great drummers. As a side note he opened for Jimi Hendrix at his last concert in Seattle.

The next five decades Russ played drums steadily both locally and internationally with great musicians and bands in most styles of music.

The last 15 years Russ has lived in Tacoma WA and has maintained a steady performance schedule. Also providing private drum instruction. He is a multiple WA Blues Society award winner including Hall of Fame band and best blues recording.

Instruction for beginning/intermediate drummers is a specialty. Russ has taught in multiple drum studios in the Northwest including his own in the 90's.

Solid drumming and showing up on time are his trademarks also the basics like rudiments and reading and anything that helps drummers achieve their goals.

Ted Brown's Music is a great place to learn music with a host of great teachers and equipment specialists.