Independent rapper Russ, known for his outspoken nature, is making headlines again. After publicly accusing Billboard of shorting him 10,000 in sales for his latest album “Santiago,” Russ has now revealed that he is contemplating joining the fake streaming game himself.
Key Takeaway
Independent rapper Russ considers faking his streaming numbers after accusing Billboard of inaccurately reporting his album sales. This controversy sheds light on the challenges faced by independent artists in a music industry that they often feel is rigged against them.
The Controversy: Billboard’s Sales Shortage
Russ has been vocal about his frustration with the music industry machine. He firmly believed that Billboard did not accurately reflect his album’s sales, resulting in a lower chart position. “Santiago” debuted at No. 12 on the Billboard 200, which was an improvement from his previous releases that failed to chart entirely. However, the rapper believes his current situation has exposed the flaws in the system he has been criticizing for years.
Russ Considers Faking Streaming Numbers
On Thursday, Russ surprised fans and critics alike by announcing his intention to fabricate his streaming numbers. In his view, exaggerating the figures would generate excitement among the public, as he perceives some fans as mere sheep blindly following the industry’s trends. He now believes that he should have embraced this strategy from the beginning and regrets not doing so sooner.
Questioning the Music Industry’s Integrity
This latest controversy raises questions about the integrity of the music industry and the methods by which artists can manipulate their sales figures. It seems that independent artists like Russ, who are adamant about maintaining their artistic independence, often find themselves at odds with the system. Previously, Russ criticized artists who signed deals with major labels, suggesting that they were undermining their own potential. However, his current situation has seemingly challenged his perception of the industry.
It remains to be seen whether Russ will follow through with his plan to manipulate his streaming numbers. Nevertheless, his outspoken nature and willingness to challenge industry norms continue to make him a prominent figure in the music scene.
