Russ Zavitson

Russ Zavitson began his career in the music industry in 1979 at the world renowned Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. It was there that he learned the mechanics of record production and music publishing. In 1982 he founded Desert Rose Music and within a year had landed his first number one record with Gene Watson’s, “You’re Out Doing What I’m Here Doing Without.” It was during this period that Russ began making weekly trips to Nashville to pitch other songs and met producer Harold Shedd.In 1987, Russ went to work for Harold running his Music Mill studios, publishing and production facility in Nashville, Tennessee. After a prosperous three years, Russ was elected as President of Magna Sound Corporation which included Millhouse Music, Sheddhouse Music, and Wooden Wonder Music. During this time Russ signed, published and pitched the multi-platinum 1 song of the year, “Achy Breaky Heart”, secured hundreds of cuts and earned over 25 BMI, ASCAP and SESAC awards. Then, in 1993, he made his major label production debut with A&M recoding artists, Shane Sutton and Jeff Copley.1994 was another successful year for Russ. It was the year he began working with twin sisters now known as The Kinleys. He continued developing their musical talents for three years and even penned their Top Ten single and first album title song, “Just Between You and Me.” The Kinleys first single, “Please”, made history by being the highest charted debut single by a female group or duo in R&R history. The song also garnered a Grammy nomination and led to the ACM Best Duo or Group award. In 1998, Russ produced The Wilkinsons on Giant Records. They also made history with the highest chart entry by a debut single on the Radio and Records Country Chart. Both artists have achieved platinum status. In 1999, Russ co-produced the multi-platinum “Touched By An Angel” soundtrack.His most recent venture is Zavitson Music Group, which has songs on the platinum Reba McEntires 30 1s, Reba’s Love Revival and Josh Turners Everything Is Fine, Russ has also produced recent albums on The Wilkinson’s and Billy Ray Cyrus, and separate Christmas and studio albums for Michelle Wright.
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