Hackney Boy Makes Good … Music

Ebony Bell meets DJ Ruff N Tuff.

It’s not often that a young aspiring DJ from the slums of Hackney gets recognition for his skills behind the decks. But that’s precisely what DJ Ruff N Tuff has achieved. Years of dedication to his skills means that DJ Ruff N Tuff is now a name both on the radio and in clubs across Europe and the Middle East. But it was the fact that he’s been a trending topic on Twitter for the past few weeks that caught my attention, so I decided I had to speak to him. Isaac Oteng, 26, graduated with a BSc in Computing from the University of East London.

So how was it growing up in Hackney?

“Growing up in Hackney was difficult at times, there was lots of gangs and knife crime but my family kept me on the straight and narrow.”

How did you avoid becoming a part of a local gang?

“Music was my outlet. There was always music playing in my house and on the estate where I lived. Music was literally everywhere.”

Who was your favourite pop-star?

“Hands down it was definitely the big MJ (Michael Jackson). He couldn’t do no wrong in my eyes. His music is timeless.”

So what inspired you to become a DJ?

“I actually got into it through my local youth club based in Evelyn Court, Hackney. They had numerous activities for youngsters including DJing. I started playing around with the turntables and I remember I enjoyed seeing this girl I fancied at the time dance whilst I was learning to mix. So I was at the youth club very often until I could save up for my own decks.

So a girl was your inspiration? Any names?

(chuckles) Well I can admit it was my high school crush that made me want to be a DJ.

Did she ever end up being your high school sweetheart?

Not in high school but years later we dabbled around. (chuckles with a cheeky grin)

Was it your determination that got you noticed as one of the UK’s crowd pleasers?

“Yh not only that but my fan base started to grow. It seemed like people were spreading the word and I was getting bookings left, right and centre. Most of my bookings came from referrals from clients, and through the response I got from radio listeners.”

Although the mainstream radio stations have asked you to join their well-known brand , you are still working for local station Mystic Radio Live. Why?

“I believe in Mystic that’s why. I have grown with the station, and most of my earliest fans still tune in to Mystic. I can’t forget them as they both played a part in my success. I will continue to stay with Mystic for as long as they will have me.” (chuckles)

How is your diary looking?

“My diary is jam packed. No days off.”

Do you ever get tired or bored?

“Never bored because no show or set is ever the same. But I must admit I get tired at times. I use a lot of energy dancing and bubbling. When I’m on set I interact with my audience, so my vibe rubs off on them.”

How do you feel knowing that you are now a headlining DJ?

“I feel amazing. I just know that all my hard work was never in vain. Getting bookings to play all over Europe and in Dubai is very pleasing. My next stop is the USA but I will have to come up with new tricks for that market. It will be a challenge but I’m ready.”

What advice would you give aspiring DJs?

“Don’t give up. Never get too comfortable, there’s always someone ready to take your spot. Keep evolving, perfect your skills and always be open to learn new things. If you put your mind to something that you enjoy there is no reason for you not to succeed. “

Why not have a listen to see if he can get you up out of your seats. Tune in to www.mysticradiolive.net and catch him live on air weekdays, Monday to Friday 7-10am and on Saturday from 12-4pm

For more information on Dj Ruff have a look at all his social media sites.

www.djrnt.com

Instagram: @DJRNT

Twitter: @DJRNT

Facebook: RUFF N TUFF

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/199623551″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

No posts to display