Tarik Johnston (Russian)

Having invaded the music industry in 2008, producer, businessman and now artiste, Tarik ‘Russian’ Johnston has undoubtedly become a force to be reckoned with.

Owner of the Head Concussion Music Label and Recording Studio, Johnston has been producing hit after hit, from not only himself, but some of the biggest names in dancehall and reggae music. While Johnston started out in the business when he was only 20 years-old, the now 23 year-old Ardenne High School graduate has long had a love for music which started from his musical background. Son of former producer Michael ‘Micron’ Johnston, Russian began messing around with the keyboard and drum machine as a child. The youngster soon taught himself along the way, becoming serious about music in 2008 and has since never looked back.

Joining forces with partner Cleveland ‘Brixton’ Scott, Johnston began working out of a smaller home studio before making it big in the business. The young producer found his big break when he met top deejay Vybz Kartel, who he was introduced to through fellow producers Jordan McClure of Chimney Records and Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor. Kartel voiced the break out hit for the producer Life Sweet, shortly after which Johnston released his ‘Liberty’ rhythm, which became popular in Canada and New York and features artistes such as Shane O, Konshens, Kartel and others.