Jonathan Cruz, better known to fans around the world as DJ Shortkut, spent decades mastering the art of turntablism —transforming vinyl records, mixers and turntables into instruments of rhythm and storytelling. As a founding member of the legendary Invisibl Skratch Piklz, Shortkut helped shape the sound of hip hop and elevate DJing into a globally respected art form.

Then in June 2024, after performing for 17,000 fans at the Roots Picnic Experience at the Hollywood Bowl alongside icons Common, Queen Latifah and Arrested Development, Shortkut’s life took a dramatic turn. Just hours after returning home to the Bay Area, he suffered a hemorrhagic stroke that left him unable to walk and without movement on his left side. It would be a devastating blow for anyone, but especially for a DJ whose craft depends on precision and dexterity.

What followed was a journey of resilience, recovery and remarkable care. Shortkut was transferred to the Acute Rehabilitation Inpatient Therapy Center at Sutter’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Oakland, where he spent three months relearning how to walk, move his arm, and — incredibly — scratch again. With the support of compassionate physicians and therapists who tailored his rehab to his unique needs as a performer, Shortkut began to reclaim his rhythm.

Watch the video to see how advanced care, innovation and heart helped one of the world’s most influential Filipino American DJs get back behind the turntables and back on tour.