99 (feat. Totem & Paulina)

Russ's song '99 (feat. Totem & Paulina)' is a powerful anthem about ambition, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. The lyrics reflect Russ's journey from humble beginnings to his current success, emphasizing the importance of hard work and self-belief. The song opens with a declaration of his determination to reach the top, despite the naysayers who claim there is no prize to be won. This sets the tone for the rest of the track, which is filled with vivid imagery and personal anecdotes that highlight his unwavering commitment to his goals.

In the first verse, Russ describes his dreams as luggage that he has yet to unpack, symbolizing the potential and opportunities that lie ahead. He references his rise from the bottom, with shoutouts to his supporters and a nod to his roots in the hood. The line 'slightly schizophrenic, I'm in the studio with myself, there's still a crowd around' captures the duality of his solitary work ethic and the external validation he seeks. The verse is a testament to his resilience and the sacrifices he has made to achieve his dreams.

The chorus reinforces the theme of persistence, with Russ vowing not to stop until the world knows his name. He emphasizes that actions speak louder than words, a sentiment echoed in the line 'who you are is what you do, not what you say.' The repetition of 'I'm popping' serves as a mantra of self-affirmation, celebrating his success and the recognition he has earned. The song concludes with a reflection on a promise he made to himself in 1999 to shine and make a significant impact. This promise is a driving force behind his relentless pursuit of greatness, inspiring listeners to chase their own dreams with the same fervor.