“A loud man screaming about his skills may not be as talented as a humble man who just displays them.†– Russell E. Watkins
Most artists and entertainers are sporting styles that start our current trends in fashion and our lifestyles as a whole. We see the trendy hairstyles and smooth looks, but what we often forget are the barbers and stylists responsible for those styles.
Enter Russell E. Watkins, celebrity barber and owner of Celebrity Styles. Russell began cutting hair when he was around 13 years old. He has been licensed professionally for two decades, having gained 7 years of Platform experience, along with advanced training instruction. He is currently looking for a company or team that can accommodate his vast experience and connections in the industry.
Russell tells The Heat Magazine that he has had the opportunity to service well known clients such as Tyler Perry (Actor/Playwright/Director), Shawty Shawty (Comedian), Dave Hollister (Singer), Cassidy (Rapper), A.J. Johnson (Actor/Comedian), Oscar Joyner (Tom Joyner’s son), Andre Ward (Jazz Musician), and Dr. Bobby Jones, just to name a few.
Given his years of experience, Russell has a lot to offer in the way of advice to current barbers – he stresses the importance of focusing on the Classic Art of Barbering, rather than on the cosmetic aspect of it. He asks that, if you take away the dyes, pencils, color sprays, and other enhancements, what would the work look like that lies underneath? He says that is something that a barber should definitely ask himself or herself – and he sends a special shoutout to female barbers.
To add to that, Russell says, “Don’t get me wrong – a barber with the talent to design some of the designs I have seen in my travels – I totally commend and respect to the fullest, but that skill takes time and you have some newer barbers trying to emulate those styles too soon before learning the basic art of Barbering.â€
Russell goes on to add, “The most helpful advice I can also give barbers – young and old, experience wise – is to never stop learning by taking part in tradeshows, advance training classes, and your fellow barbers and barberettes. Share with each other because we are blessed with a skill set that some people don’t even understand!â€
If anyone is interested in booking classes or services, contact Russell at rwatkins1029@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter – @Thebarberfather.
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