Russ grew up in Surrey and currently resides in the South West of England. He has been drumming since he was 9 years old – inspired by seeing the late, great Cozy Powell on the TV show, Top of the Pops. He was taught by Vic Pantling (a student of the legendary big band drummer and teacher – Max Abrams), also by Military/Jazz specialist Nick Slater and Bill Bruford of Yes, Genesis and King Crimson fame. He has actively played drums since that time and performed professionally for more than 15 years. In addition to his vast experience of live work with numerous bands, Russ has been involved in songwriting, recording, the creation of drum loops, and computer-based music production. In 2002, He began teaching and has helped drummers ranging from 8 to 80 years old to discover, or rediscover drumming.