Producer credits Busy Signal’s project for current success

Last October, Walter Russell predicted to THE STAR that having worked on Busy Signal's Parts of the Puzzle compilation, his life would change forever.

Today, Russell says that prediction came true, as his inclusion on the project has turned him into a hot commodity.

"I think it exposed me to the industry more as other artistes eventually wanted to work with me. The fact that it was on Billboard added credibility to my name as well. It also helped to show how serious I am about my music because there are a lot of jokers out there and I've learnt that artistes like to work with producers who love the music and are serious about it," he said.

"I think I'm handling the exposure well. The only thing is, I have to learn to pace myself. The demand is strong, especially from young artistes recently. I try to listen to everybody because you don't want a potential hit to pass, but I know as well I can't possibly work with everybody. That's too much pressure to put on myself but I'm very much still excited and I can't wait to unleash some of the other music I have to the world," he said.

Russell, who goes by the moniker Retlaw Tha Future, told THE WEEKEND STAR that he is looking to close out 2020 with a bang following the release of his latest work, the Meraki rhythm.

"'Meraki' was the word of the day on August 15, 2020, according to an app on my phone, and it is a Greek word that means to do or create something with soul, passion and creativity; to put something of yourself into your work. And funny enough, I had this project and was struggling for a name to call it. When I saw that word and what it meant I knew that was the title for the project," he said. "Everything I do as a musician/producer I put my soul into it. Which is why I felt this word of the day was perfect for it and then everybody's approach, once I got in touch with them to be a part of it, felt so real and soulful. Whether it was in the sexual way, love way, gangsta way or inspirational, they put their all into it and by listening to this project you will definitely feel that from the artistes."

The Meraki rhythm features acts like Busy Signal, Christopher Martin, Romain Virgo, Renee 6:30 and rising star Monifa Goss.