Words by Kimatni D. Rawlins, Photos by Beast Williams and Garvin St Villier
“Welcome to the City of Angels with your man DJ Damage from iHeart Radio and the Hollywood Unlocked Uncensored podcast” bellows the amped-up DJ, multimedia host, Fit Father, entrepreneur, and industry hustler. But, of course, you have to be in LA! So Automotive Rhythms took a weekend spin around town in the 2021 Lexus IS 350 F-Sport with its Matte Black-wrapped vibe and 311-horsepower V6 engine as we portrayed the talent behind the ARtv lens for a “Day in the Life” segment.
Abdul “DJ Damage” Quddas learned how to DJ from a friend at boarding school at just 12 years old. Instantly, he became hooked! Fast forward to 2021, and DJ Damage is constantly curating for the next primetime opportunity. Rightfully, when he’s ripping through Los Angeles with the IS and its infectious flare red and black geometric trimmed interior, thoughts become synchronized with the task at hand. And with F SPORT suspension tuning, the premium sports sedan is always in control of the road like Kobe Bryant with the rock. Available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, our F SPORT model was further blessed with the F SPORT heated and leather-trimmed steering wheel and a carbon fiber rear spoiler to enhance performance. Add that to its 3.5-liter V6 with “Drive Mode Select” set in Sport mode, and you will never miss another LA meeting again. The Japanese vehicle kicks out 311-horsepower and travels a top speed of 143 mph. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, owners can achieve 28 highway mpg.
In LA’s eclectic and fascinating town, you can experience more than a few attractions and places to remain atop the lifestyle. DJ Damage focuses on self-care to remain chiseled like his Lexus whip. Thus, we drove to EnrichFit Gym for a workout and boxing lessons with his 8-year-old son Legend. Damage compares his fitness lifestyle with top-end performance. “I want a ride that’s agile and physically fit,” he stated. To see just how responsive the IS performs, we set a course for Mulholland Drive, where he typically seeks refuge to clear his head. Afterward, the crew rerouted to Fairfax and Melrose Avenue for shopping and pictures with the Kobe and Nipsey murals, Happy Ice to cool off, and Santa Monica Beach.
“I’m an entertainer but equally enjoy being entertained,” adds DJ Damage. “I’m getting that plus some with a 10-way F SPORT driver seat with bolsters for enhanced driving, a performance exhaust, and the upgraded 10.3” Touchscreen Display. And as a DJ, you already know this 10-speaker Lexus premium sound system is what I need to rock out.”
A new touchscreen display, shift knob, and steering wheel trimmed in hand-selected leather that features paddle shifters empowers the cabin. Daring details feature accent stitching along the dash and larger, circular air vents. More technology includes Dynamic Voice Command, Lexus-Enform Wi-Fi and Smartphone, and SmartWatch connections with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
As part of the Fit Fathers movement, Legend is super active and dear to his heart. In this case, ultimate protection is a must. No problem since the IS is the first Lexus to come standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5. Additional safety comes in the form of Pre-Collision System w/Pedestrian Detection, All Speed-Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert w/Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam Headlamps & Road Sign Assist SmartAccess-with Push-Button Start/Stop.
Lastly, DJ Damage is all about style, whether it’s his wardrobe or his ride. Naturally, 20” staggered Vossen rims, F-Sport exterior styling, and a low, imposing stance are a must as the beastly 2021 Lexus IS returns with a ripped physique and broader stance.
Writing yet another chapter in the book of compact luxury sports sedans, the new 2021 Lexus IS expands upon the legacy it has carved out in the segment and continues to win over youthful souls like DJ Damage. Whether he’s on-air, DJing at the next hot spot, hosting, or simply touring the city in the IS F Sport, DJ Damage always game-ready!
