What makes There's Really a Wolf by Russ notable?

The album achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number 7 on the Billboard 200 and featuring the hit single Losin Control, which helped solidify Russ's presence in the mainstream hip-hop scene. Its critical reception praised Russ's candid storytelling and DIY approach, influencing many independent artists to follow a similar path. Released on January 1, 2017, There's Really a Wolf is Russ's debut studio album following the success of his independent singles and mixtapes. At this point, he had cultivated a dedicated online following, establishing himself as a self-sufficient artist by producing and recording much of his music in his home studio.

Who is There's Really a Wolf for?

There's Really a Wolf works well if you're into introspective reflections on personal growth, short tracks for quick engagement and melodic beats for emotional connection.

How many songs are on There's Really a Wolf?

There's Really a Wolf has 20 tracks, running approximately 63 minutes.

There's Really a Wolf

Russ · 2017

63 min · 20 tracks · hip-hop

An introspective blend of melodic hip-hop and confessional lyricism, exploring personal struggles and ambitions.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Losin Control — This track showcases Russ's vulnerability as he navigates themes of love and regret, making it relatable for many listeners while also becoming one of his most popular songs.
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What They Want — With its catchy hook and assertive lyrics, this track encapsulates Russ's determination to succeed despite external doubts, resonating with aspiring artists everywhere.
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Act Now — In this song, Russ emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities, reflecting his proactive mindset that has become a defining trait in his career.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

44 /100

Lowland

Higher than 4% of albums we've rated

The album combines melodic elements with introspective lyrics, achieving moderate success but lacking standout cohesion.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a consistent mid-tempo, while the second half introduces more varied pacing and emotional intensity.
Several songs incorporate personal anecdotes and introspective themes, with lyrics that often reflect on struggles and ambitions.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

introspective reflections on personal growth
short tracks for quick engagement
melodic beats for emotional connection
self-assured themes of resilience

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, sprawling albums
seek high-energy party tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2017, There's Really a Wolf is Russ's debut studio album following the success of his independent singles and mixtapes. At this point, he had cultivated a dedicated online following, establishing himself as a self-sufficient artist by producing and recording much of his music in his home studio.
Stylistic neighbors: J. Cole· Logic· Big Sean