Russell Lee
Russell Lee Atkins was born in Houston, Texas to Ethalia M. Atkins. By the age of six, Russell was playing drums in church and paving the way toward his platinum albums. It was then he knew he had a special passion for music. In middle school, Russell started playing the trumpet and percussion, and soon thereafter, in high school, he became a Drum Major. Stuffed in a room full of sheet music, brass, and strings, Russell found he could play almost every instrument he picked up.
At the age of 17 he bought his first keyboard, a Roland XP60, and an MPC 2000. From that point forward Russell Lee was equipped to become a producer. For some of the musicians around his neighborhood, Russell would sell his beats for $50 a pop, or give them away to friends. He had no idea that within a few years he would be selling beats for 100 times that.
Just a few short months ago Russell was able to add a Timbaland MiKo to his musical outfit by winning second place in the Open Labs Beats 'N Treats Music Festival. The new gear has helped him hone his skills and streamline his workload so he can not only create better, but more.
Though time continues to pass, Russell Lee still focuses on perfecting his craft. He's worked with a number of artists on major labels, such as: Ludacris, Baby Bash, Natalie, FRANKIE J, Paula Deana, Max Minelli, and a long list of independent artists. He also received a platinum plaque for his work on FRANKIE J's album, and a gold plaque for his production with Baby Bash.
Russell Lee has proven himself to be much more than an established producer, he's also a talented musician. He has toured for three years as a drummer with platinum artist FRANKIE J, completed a 15-city tour in Europe, and a tour twice as long around the US. Russell built his success on his own, with no management and no lawyer, just a few contacts that were established over the years. He will tell you himself that he has yet to reach his full potential, and he is still hungry to reach his goal. Now 28 and married, he is focused, determined, experienced, and ready to further his career as a musical powerhouse.
Equipment Used
Purchased MiKo TSE (Gen3)
Artist Links