HE HUSTLES

@izzythedjj @Bazl

Izzy The DJ (@izzythedj) is an international DJ based out of the Hampton Roads Area of Virginia. He is a Father, Philanthropist, Entrepreneur, and Community Activist

As the owner of multiple businesses such as Bazl Vibe and Dine (@Bazl VB), Can’t Stay Local Clothing line (@cantstaylocal), and ParadICE (Paradice757) he embodies the true meaning of “Men Who Hustle” From Virginia to Paris, he has impacted the world with the ability to speak to his audience through his turntables

How did you get your start in being a DJ?

I always tell this story lol. So, my uncle taught me how to download music at a super young age so between that and road trips with my dad, my love for music began I used to burn mix CDs at age 10 with my favorite songs (early remnants of my mixtape era) then it turned into me making them for friends and family Then my stepmom copped me my first DJ set when I was 11 for Christmas. The rest was history My real climb began when I had my daughter and quit playing college football This is when the real journey began for me

Do you remember any of your early influences on music and creativity in the DJ world?

My early influences definitely were my cousin DJ T-Period (Formally DJ T-Nutz) DJ Envy, DJ Drama, Kay Slay, and my uncle for teaching me how to download music which started all of this.

Tell us about the Virginia Music Scene, How have you stayed focused to blaze your trail in your local area?

I emerged myself in it Made it home The Virginia music scene is rich with talent so it’s easy in my opinion to get wrapped in it As far as my role, I just try to put my best foot forward and shed light on the area through my work whether that’s as a DJ, curating events and through my travels

Tell us about your entrepreneurial journey, how do you balance music and business?

There's no balance because music is business. I use my music side to fuel most of my business or at least have some facet of music incorporated