LaRussell Talks New Album, Roc Nation Deal, and Trolls

The Bay Area rapper discusses his collaboration with Lil Jon, signing with Roc Nation, and representing the West Coast.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a new interview, Bay Area rapper LaRussell talks about the positive response to his new album "Something's in the Water" which he collaborated on with Lil Jon. He also discusses his recent Roc Nation deal and the pressure of representing the West Coast rap scene.

Why it matters

LaRussell's new album and Roc Nation deal showcase his growing success and influence in the West Coast rap scene. His comments on the state of West Coast hip-hop provide insight into the regional dynamics and rising talent.

The details

LaRussell, a 31-year-old rapper from Vallejo, California, recently released his 42nd album "Something's in the Water" which features a collaboration with Lil Jon. The album has received a positive response, with NBA star Kyrie Irving purchasing 100,000 copies. LaRussell also recently signed a deal with Jay-Z's Roc Nation label, which he says has helped expand his own Good Compenny label. Despite the success, LaRussell says he feels no pressure representing the West Coast and views it as a collaborative effort, shouting out fellow West Coast artists like Kendrick Lamar, E-40, Mustard, and Kehlani.

  • LaRussell released "Something's in the Water" with Lil Jon on March 1, 2026.
  • LaRussell signed with Roc Nation in February 2026.

The players

LaRussell

A 31-year-old rapper from Vallejo, California who has released 42 albums since 2019 and recently collaborated with Lil Jon and signed a deal with Roc Nation.

Lil Jon

An American rapper, DJ, and record producer known for his work in the crunk genre of hip hop music.

Roc Nation

An American entertainment company founded by Jay-Z that operates as a record label, talent agency, music publisher, and music streaming service.

Kyrie Irving

An American professional basketball player who purchased 100,000 copies of LaRussell's new album.

Kendrick Lamar

An American rapper that LaRussell named as one of the top West Coast rappers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm really honored and grateful to be in this position. Just hearing people slap it out their cars and seeing all the kids in school react, it's lovely. I never could have imagined it, you know? It's just something you have to live out yourself.”

— LaRussell

“When we was cooking it, me and Lil Jon was like, 'Man, we are making special pieces that feel nostalgic and remind us of that time but also feel so fresh and new.'”

— LaRussell

“They seen me build what I built and Hov says, 'Here's our Green Book and here's all the things that we built for ourselves. I want you to utilize them to become the best version of yourself possible.'”

— LaRussell

“I don't think there's no kind of pressure. I just show up and ball.”

— LaRussell

What’s next

LaRussell plans to continue promoting his new album "Something's in the Water" and expanding his Good Compenny label through his partnership with Roc Nation.

The takeaway

LaRussell's success with his new album and Roc Nation deal showcases the continued vitality of the West Coast rap scene, with the artist representing the region's collaborative spirit and rising talent.