2 Tuff Stuff

D’Angelo Hardy, aka DJ 2Tuff, on his beginnings, his career and the need to continue perfecting his craft

By Tabitha Ervin

D’Angelo has been a DJ for 35 years around Fort Wayne and other cities. He started DJing in high school doing local house parties hanging around with Lionel Hogan, Marty Martin, Jimmy Conners and others who helped him get started. He also had a small commercial on what was called Cool Radio in 1983. We recently sat down to discuss his journey and what he’s been up too!

Q: So, tell me about your journey.

After graduating here in Fort Wayne, I headed to the US Air Force in May 1986. I bought my own DJ equipment on a $3500 loan at the time and took it with me. On my journey through several Air Force bases, I begin my career as a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights at the base NCO (non-commissioned officers) club. I have been in Michigan, California and Kansas City serving in the Air Force and doing my music on the side.

Q: That sounds adventurous. What brought you back to Fort Wayne?

I served my time and moved back to support my family. Over the years I have been able to DJ locally at many places including, Links Wonderland, Mickeys and Billys, St. Marys Lounge, Tycoons, 19th Hole and American Legion and Post 148. I was also able to start my own radio show on WELT 95.7 on Saturday nights 6-8 pm.

Q: What have you been doing lately?

During the pandemic I’ve been learning the business and production side of the DJ world. I have produced two CDs and I am working on a third. And I have tons more music that’s waiting to get mastered.

To hone my craft, I am also taking keyboard lessons, as well as mastering and engineering classes at Sweetwater. I want to get better at all aspects of the business.

Q: So what do you have coming up and how can people find you?

I am still DJing as needed and people can find me on social media, both Facebook and Instagram under my name or they can just call me at 260-804-0434. With my classes at Sweetwater, my goal is to be able to produce and help people finish their music. I also have a clothing line with hockey and baseball jerseys as well with my company name and logo: Soundz Bumpin Productionz. AS soon as we get through this pandemic, I’ll be DJing at Stein Tavern.

Lastly, I want to shout out some of those who have influenced and supported me: locally Roco Blanco, Julius Ranking, DJ Polaris; and nationally Teddy Riley, Prince, Cameo and so many others. I am proud and blessed to still be in the game after this many years.