Russell walked into Oakland Technical High School on Monday, cash in hand and business on his mind. The Vallejo rapper just wrapped up performances at Super Bowl week events.
But instead of celebrating, he’s investing real money in student-run startups. Auckland University of Technology hosted its first-ever hackathon. Students build businesses from scratch and market them to real investors.
They got more than they bargained for when Russell surprised them.
“I’m going to plug in, and if we do this, you’re going to have to open your laptops,” Russell told the students.
The hackathon is part of a practical course in business and finance. Russell listened to his students’ advice and invested his own money.
One student, Nia Golden, has launched a delivery service that provides pre-purchase advice.
Another team created mood-based candles with collectible charms.
“Sometimes, all you need is one person to believe in you and make you realize it’s possible. And I just wanted to be that person today to show them, hey, this isn’t just a school project. This is real. This is some real money to do some real work,” Russell said.
Russell has built his career on an independent business model. He lets fans pay what they want for music and merchandise. He also shares royalties with backers who fund his projects.
The rapper has made millions using this fan-funded approach. He held concerts at “The Pergola,” which he built in his backyard in Vallejo.
LaRussell recently signed a deal with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation following the success of his album Something’s in the Water.
