The Flashback Interview: Russell Williams II
I was first exposed to the work of today’s interview subject, sound designer Russell Williams II, when I saw the 1986 Cannon version of Invaders From Mars on WPIX, New York’s Movie Station, in the 1990s. Upon revisiting that movie as an adult, I could better appreciate what Russell was able to do considering Cannon’s stinginess. Looking at Russell’s IMDB page many years later, I was amazed by the depth and diversity of his sound work, work that led him to become the first of only five, as of 2023, African-American artists to win multiple Academy Awards. I reached out to Mr. Williams about an interview last year, and he agreed to it. We spoke late last year about his work as a sound designer and as a teacher, and now I can share this interview with all of you. I hope you all enjoy getting to know this amazing man. Say hello to Russell Williams II! Russell: Is this Johnny? Johnny: Yes, it is, Mr. Williams. Russell: How are
