Ever wondered how Russ crafts those addictive, chart-topping hits that stick in your head for days?

From “What They Want” to “Losin Control,” the self-produced superstar has a knack for turning raw emotion into platinum records—and today, we’re cracking open his playbook.

Here are 7 secrets Russ uses to write unforgettable music (plus how you can steal his moves for your own tracks).

1. Start with a “Vibe First” Mindset

Russ doesn’t force lyrics onto a beat—he lets the mood guide him.

“I’ll loop a melody or chord progression for hours until it *tells* me what to write,” he’s said in interviews.

Try this: Next time you’re stuck, close your eyes and freestyle nonsense words over your instrumental—the right lyrics often emerge from the feeling.

2. Brutal Honesty = Relatable Hits

Russ’s songs work because they’re uncomfortably real.

He mines his insecurities, heartbreaks, and even arrogance for material (see: “Best on Earth”).

Action step: Keep a “confessional journal” of your unfiltered thoughts—your most cringe-worthy entries might become your best hooks.

3. The “Three-Word Hook” Rule

Analyze Russ’s choruses: “What They Want,” “Losin Control,” “Best on Earth”—all three words.

This isn’t coincidence; short, repetitive phrases are scientifically stickier.

Test it: Rewrite your chorus to fit this structure and watch its memorability skyrocket.

4. Produce Like You’re Broke (Even If You’re Not)

Russ famously built his career with just a laptop and MIDI keyboard.

His secret? “Limitations force creativity.”

Challenge yourself: Pick *one* instrument or plugin and write an entire song using only that—you’ll innovate to compensate.

5. Steal from Non-Musical Sources

Russ pulls lyrics from everywhere—text arguments, movie quotes, even street signs.

His track “Pull the Trigger” was inspired by a tattoo parlor’s neon sign.

Pro tip: Carry a voice memo app and record random phrases that catch your ear—they’re gold mines for song starters.

6. Write Fast, Edit Slow

Russ often completes entire songs in one sitting to capture raw energy, then tweaks for weeks.

“First drafts are lightning in a bottle,” he told *Complex*.

Try his 90-minute sprint: Set a timer and vow to finish a full song draft before it goes off—perfection comes later.

7. The “Ear Test” Final Exam

Before releasing anything, Russ plays his tracks for non-musician friends.

If they don’t bob their heads unconsciously? Back to the lab.

Your homework: Play your demo for someone who’s never heard your music—their first reaction is your truth serum.

So—ready to write like Russ?

Remember: His real secret isn’t some magic technique—it’s trusting his gut and embracing imperfections.

Now go turn your weirdest thoughts into hooks and prove “they” wrong.

Which of these tricks will you try first? (Comment below—we’re listening.)