Rvssian Bio

More than any other producer, Tarik “Rvssian” Johnston has defined the sound of dancehall in the last half decade. Coming to prominence with productions for Vybz Kartel such as “Go Go Club” and “Straight Jeans and Fitted”, Rvssian— formerly known as Russian with a ‘U,’ he has recently re-branded for SEO purposes—was the Werl’ Boss right-hand man in the booth, as Kartel reached the peak of his career circa 2010.

Rvssian loved music from an early age, learning to play the piano and drums from his father Michael 'Micron' Johnston, the founder of Micron Music Limited. In December 2007, Rvssian decided to set up Head Concussion Records, a music production studio located in Kingston, Jamaica.

After graduating from Ardenne High School, Rvssian enrolled in the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.It was during this period that he met Vybz Kartel through fellow producers Jordan McClure (Chimney Records)and Stephen 'Di Genius' McGregor. In 2008, Rvssian created his first rhythm "Liberty Riddim", which featured Konshens' "Ago Kill Me" and Vybz Kartel's "Nah Hold We Down."

Two years later, Rvssian produced "Life Sweet" for Vybz Kartel. As he became more popular, Rvssian decided to leave the Edna Manley College for Visual and Performing Arts, to try and enhance his reputation.