DJ HardWerk has faced health battles that nearly cost him his life. Through it all, he never stopped making music. That dedication has now brought him career milestones he once only dreamed of.
DJ HardWerk, born in the Bronx, began his career in Atlanta and now lives in Las Vegas. Over the years, he worked with major artists, including Sean Paul, Major Lazer, Damian and Stephen Marley, Camila Cabello, Akon, Mya, Prince Royce, Sean Kingston, and Fergie. His work appeared on Grammy-nominated projects, but he had yet to win one.
Two years ago, he suffered a stroke and an aneurysm. Doctors later discovered his heart and kidneys were failing, followed by a cancer diagnosis. He spent months in the hospital, kept alive by machines while waiting for the possibility of a transplant.
During that time, he continued composing music from his hospital bed. Doctors urged him to stop because it strained his body, but he refused. He saw music as the one thing keeping him moving forward.
One track, Sensational, reached Chris Brown, who added Davido and Low Jay. The song went on to win a Grammy in February 2025, giving Constable the recognition he had pursued for years.
Soon after, his music reached Cardi B through his business partner Duwayne ‘DaDa’ Mills and A&R executive Darrale Jones. HardWerk produced two songs on her album Am I The Drama?—Pick It Up featuring Selena Gomez and What’s Going On featuring Lizzo. Released in September 2025, the album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and set a Guinness World Record as the fastest album to go platinum, reaching that mark in just 15 hours.
The acclaimed producer has since left the hospital and is continuing therapy. His cancer battle is ongoing, but he remains committed to creating music.
His story highlights how determination and purpose can carry someone through even the hardest circumstances. For DJ HardWerk, music has been both his passion and his lifeline.
Featured photo: Philip Constable
Interior photo: Zaina Chiti
