RUSS SHANKS

About RUSS SHANKS

The heart of the Hip-Hop Genre is based upon expanding the vision of various musical genres, and grasping new concepts and ideas in today’s music industry. Hip-Hop has reshaped modern day R&B, Rock-n-Roll, Alternative Jazz and even Gospel Music. Creating a new path within this inspirational Hip-Hop culture is the indefinable artist known simply as Russ Shanks. Divinely raised in the streets of South Baltimore, MD, Shanks blends a classic street style with the message of a Disciple. To categorize him as a Gospel/Christian Rap artist is standard; the 1 descriptive word for him that fits is an Entertainer! The edgy and aggressive styles of Shanks are the key factors to his ceaseless growth and stage presence, which captures his audience’s attention from the introduction to the final performance. His formula allows him to display his devotion to God and his “Soldier for Christ” mentality shared through his personal walk in life encouraging a vicarious message of perseverance, hope, and redemption. As a franchise member of the Rock-Da-Truth Records family, Shanks adds value to the art of gospel rap through his devotedness to leave a lasting impression on those that hearken his messages. His discography begins with 3 previous CD releases: “Underdog” (2006), “Christ Pathogen” (2009) spotlighting a single and music video entitled “Rize” featuring Sekou Haze, Young Prophet and MLik and the most recent, “(expired link).” (Ever Present in Christ). Russ has amassed over 26 features ranging from Dee Black, Scope, Derek Thompson, Mike Trotter Jr. and SheFlowz, to name a few. 4 singles are keeping him conspicuous on the airwaves worldwide: “Irreplaceable” featuring Tameka J. Harris (award nominee for beaucoup shares and posts on social media websites), “I Never Knew”, “I’m Ready” featuring Scope and Briana Rae and “Fire Bending”. Through his diligence, Russ has been awarded a few accolades to his credit: Newsome Award for “Best Hip-Hop Vocalist” (2009)(2010), and DMV Christian Music Award for “Male Holy Hip-Hop Artist of the Year” (2013). Multiple nominations include: DMV Christian Music Award nominee for “Best Hip-Hop Male Artist” (2012), Crunk 4 Christ Nominee for “Best Music Video”, “Best Album”, “Best Hip-Hop Artist” (2014), and Prayze Factor award nominee for, “Best Urban and Contemporary Gospel Artist”, “Best Holy Hip-Hop Solo Artist”, “Best Holy Hip-Hop Artist with features”, “Writer of the Year”, “Best Music Video” (2014) and now he’s a Kindred Award nominee for “Best Hip Hop Artist” (2015). Russ also continues his strive for excellence with a noteworthy performance at the New Life Victory Center in Charlotte, NC at the (expired link). Victory in Praise Conference (2014) hosted by gospel legend John P. Kee. With his latest single release, “Enough Is Enuff” featuring Kyla Simone, Russ Shanks shows his social chops by addressing the recent turmoil that has threatened the relationship between law enforcement and those they are tasked to serve and protect. Shanks is engaged in bridging gaps, reaching more souls for Christ, and displaying unity among the Urban Gospel Community. The Rock Da Truth Records franchise player has linked up with The Reach Movement in order to help increase his fan base and take his music and ministry to higher heights. The streets and the Christian community are watching Shanks and he encourages them to not only continue to do so, but also espy and feel the message of this deviser of Gospel/Hip-Hop entertainment.