In the bustling streets of New York, where rhythm and creativity intertwine, music producer YoungHitz Rus found his calling. Starting his production journey at just 15 years old with an MPC2000 and Microsoft Sound Recorder, he quickly realized that music was more than a hobby; it was a profound passion. “I always loved to dance, and the rhythm often hits me with a deeper feeling than vocals,” he reflects. YoungHitz envisions himself as the conductor of an orchestra, guiding listeners through a captivating experience filled with emotion and cadence. To him, producing is an art form that dances hand-in-hand with performance, allowing him to express his creativity without necessarily stepping into the spotlight.
Growing up in Jamaica, Queens, YoungHitz was immersed in a musical culture that shaped his identity. “Everybody knows New York is the mecca of music. The culture and the people around me have always motivated me musically,” he explains. Surrounded by friends and family—many of whom were aspiring rappers and producers—he felt a constant push to hone his craft. However, his most significant influence came from his mother, a single black woman who navigated the challenges of the city with resilience. “Seeing her make it through tough times was all the motivation I needed,” he shares.
YoungHitz’s creative process is both ritualistic and eclectic. He often starts by watching movies, seeking inspiration in their soundtracks or finding samples to incorporate into his tracks. His musical tastes span from the classic sounds of the 60s and 70s to modern influences, reflecting his diverse artistic palette. Before every session, he takes a moment to pray and bless the space, ensuring he enters the creative zone with positivity.
Despite his rising success, the path hasn’t always been easy. YoungHitz acknowledges that the biggest challenge he faces is the constant pursuit of improvement. “I sometimes get stuck in overthinking, but I overcome that by taking breaks,” he reveals. To keep his music fresh and innovative, he travels the world and explores genres he didn’t grow up listening to, allowing him to break out of his comfort zone.
One project he’s particularly proud of is “Bank Alert,” a collaboration with DarkKnightZM. The track stands out as a testament to the power of connection across cultures, as two artists from vastly different backgrounds came together to create something truly special. “It’s amazing what can happen when you collaborate,” he notes.
Networking plays a vital role in YoungHitz’s career. As a naturally social person from New York, he actively reaches out to artists and creators through social media and attends events to build relationships. “The game isn’t going to find you at your doorstep; you have to go out there and take it,” he emphasizes.
Looking to the future, YoungHitz Rus envisions himself as a top A&R executive producer, guiding his label to new heights. He dreams of collaborating with diverse artists across genres—from rap to EDM to pop—and taking them on worldwide tours. His mantra is clear: “Be original, have your own style and unique taste.” With his sights set on the horizon, YoungHitz Rus is ready to leave a lasting mark on the music industry. The journey is just beginning, and the world can’t wait to hear what he has in store.
Follow the producer on social: @younghitzrus
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