In the vibrant music scene of Dallas, DJ Jake Gatewood has emerged as a trailblazer. At just 25 years old, he is not only reshaping the nightlife experience but also making significant strides in the digital music world. Known for his electrifying performances and unique house beats, Gatewood’s platform, Take a Break, has now gained recognition from Apple Music. This collaboration marks a historic shift in how DJs can legally share their mixes while earning royalties, opening new doors for electronic music creators. Gatewood’s journey began at 15, evolving through various genres before finding his true calling in dance music. His events have grown from intimate gatherings to large-scale parties, drawing crowds of over 1,200 attendees. With international collaborations and plans for multi-day festivals, Gatewood is set to redefine the future of live and digital music experiences.

Gatewood’s passion for music ignited during his teenage years when he started blending different genres, particularly in the hip-hop scene. Performing opening sets for renowned artists like Young Thug and Miguel helped him refine his skills. However, it was during a pivotal performance with Miguel that he discovered his true love for house music. "That night felt different," he recalls. "I realized this was where I belonged." As the world came to a halt due to the pandemic, Gatewood saw an opportunity to connect people through music. He launched the YouTube series Take a Break, offering a virtual escape for listeners. The concept quickly gained traction, leading to the first in-person event at Deep Ellum Art Co. in July 2022. The venue, traditionally known for hosting live bands, welcomed a new audience of house music enthusiasts. The lineup featured local and international talent, including DJs BoyBlk, Lakim, and DLMT, drawing a sold-out crowd of 500 attendees.

The success of the inaugural event propelled Take a Break to larger venues such as Trees and The Studio at The Factory in Deep Ellum. Over the past year, Gatewood has organized 15 events across North Texas, each attracting more than 1,200 attendees. Attendees often describe the experience as unifying and liberating, sentiments that resonate deeply with Gatewood. "Hearing those words means everything to me," he says. Beyond local fame, Take a Break has attracted international attention, featuring DJs from Mexico, Australia, and other countries. Gatewood’s dedication has also led to collaborations with global stars like Coco and Breezy and producer Yung Bae. His relentless pursuit of excellence earned him a spot in Apple Music’s DJ Mix Series, which officially debuted on February 21st. The release includes 10 curated mixes that blend emerging and established artists, three of which quickly topped Apple Music’s new releases page.

As Take a Break continues to grow, Gatewood remains committed to pushing boundaries. His partnership with Apple Music signifies a monumental change in the music industry, allowing DJs to legally publish full mixes and earn royalties. Looking ahead, Gatewood plans to expand with more curated mixes, live show recordings, and multi-day festivals. "We’re just getting started," he affirms. The future promises even bigger events, further cementing Gatewood’s role as a pioneer in the electronic music scene. His vision of creating immersive musical experiences continues to inspire both audiences and fellow DJs, setting the stage for a new era in music creation and consumption.