Tom Russell has recorded 25 records and two DVDs. His songs have been recorded by Johnny Cash, Doug Sahm, Nancy Griffith, Joe Ely, Iris Dement, Ian Tyson, KD Lang, Suzy Bogguss, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Jeff Walker, Dave Van Ronk and other great artists.
Russell is credited, along with Dave Alvin, of inventing the Americana radio format with their Merle Haggard tribute 'Tulare Dust' in 1994. The Columbus Other wrote: 'Russell seems to have invented, and keeps re-inventing, American roots music...! He's the strongest live performer we have seen in years.'