Singer-songwriter and rapper Russ has been honored with a National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) Gold & Platinum Recognition plaque celebrating his songwriting achievements across 26 certified songs.
The recognition took place on stage at Music Biz 2026, the annual conference hosted by the Music Business Association in Atlanta, on Thursday (May 14).
The plaque was presented by NMPA President & CEO David Israelite alongside Omar Grant, Senior Director of Creative at Sony Music Publishing, following an introduction from former TuneCore CEO and Andreea Gleeson Advisory founder Andreea Gleeson.
The 26 certified songs span Gold, Platinum, Multi Platinum, and milestone certifications, including 12 Gold records, 8 Platinum records, 3 Double Platinum records, a Triple Platinum certification for Best on Earth, a 5x Platinum certification for What They Want, and an 8x Platinum certification for Losin Control.
Russ (born Russell James Vitale) has released music through TuneCore for 15 years and was signed with Columbia Records from 2017 to 2020 before going independent again.
He spoke at SXSW in March about his approach to ownership and fan engagement, and was described in that conversation as the second-highest RIAA-certified independent rapper in history.
“Russ represents exactly what the NMPA Gold & Platinum program was created to celebrate: exceptional songwriting that creates a lasting connection with audiences around the world.”
David Israelite, NMPA
“Russ represents exactly what the NMPA Gold & Platinum program was created to celebrate: exceptional songwriting that creates a lasting connection with audiences around the world,” said David Israelite, President & CEO of the NMPA.
“Today we are recognizing an extraordinary body of work spanning 26 certified songs across Gold, Platinum, Multi Platinum, and major milestone certifications, including ‘Best on Earth,’ ‘What They Want,’ and the 8x Platinum ‘Losin Control.'”
“These certifications are the most definitive measurement of a songwriter’s success, and Russ’s catalog reflects not only remarkable commercial achievement, but years of consistency, vision, and dedication to his craft.”
“Russ’s career is a testament to what can happen when artistry, discipline, and long term vision come together,” said Andreea Gleeson.
“What has always stood out to me from working with him over the years is not just that he is an exceptional artist, but that he is a truly exceptional songwriter and creative thinker across every part of his work.”
“Whether it’s music, storytelling, live experiences, or the way he builds connection with fans, everything is approached with incredible intention. This recognition is such a meaningful reflection of the depth, consistency, and impact of his songwriting over time.”
“Russ’s career is a testament to what can happen when artistry, discipline, and long term vision come together.”
Andreea Gleeson
Gleeson stepped down as TuneCore CEO in January and now runs her own advisory firm.
“We’re especially excited to celebrate Russ at Music Biz this year because the conference is taking place in Atlanta, a city that has had such an enormous impact on global music and culture,” said Portia Sabin, President of the Music Business Association.
“Russ represents so much of what is shaping the future of the industry today through his artistry, songwriting, entrepreneurship, and direct connection with audiences. It felt incredibly fitting to recognize one of Atlanta’s most impactful artists in his hometown during this year’s conference.”
“We’re incredibly proud to celebrate Russ and his many songwriting achievements,” said Omar Grant, Senior Director of Creative at Sony Music Publishing.
“He has built a catalog that continues to resonate with audiences around the world and across generations, and we are thrilled to see him receive this well-deserved recognition.”
“We’re incredibly proud to celebrate Russ and his many songwriting achievements.”
Omar Grant, Sony Music Publishing
According to the announcement, Russ has accumulated more than 24 billion streams and 35 million singles sold over the course of his career.
In a 2023 MBW Trailblazers interview, Russ discussed his approach to independence and entrepreneurialism, having built his career by self-releasing 11 mixtapes and a song a week on SoundCloud before his Columbia Records deal.
He owns the record label and collective DIEMON – which stands for “Do It Every Day Music Or Nothing” – and has expanded beyond music into publishing and film, according to the announcement.
The NMPA‘s Gold & Platinum program was founded in 2007 and certifies songwriters of RIAA-certified singles, with thresholds at Gold (500,000), Platinum (1 million), and Multi Platinum (2 million+) based on combined sales and on-demand streams.Music Business Worldwide
