Check Out Gem’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gem.

Hi Gem, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up as a competitive dancer, so music has always been a huge part of my life. That early connection to rhythm naturally led me to start a music blog, which became my entry point into the industry. Through the blog, I was able to explore different sounds, connect with artists, and really develop my taste.

During COVID, I felt a pull to try something new creatively. My ex bought me a set of DJ decks, and I decided to learn, initially just as a hobby. But it didn’t take long before I became fully immersed. I was practicing constantly, refining my sound, and starting to take it seriously.

As opportunities started to come in and I began booking shows, it became clear that not everyone around me believed in what I was building. That ultimately led me to leave that relationship and fully commit to myself and my path.

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to play across canada alongside some of the biggest names in dance music. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how far things have come in such a short time. I’m especially excited to be making my New York City debut next month, it feels like just the beginning.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges was having to believe in myself before others did. When I started gaining momentum and booking shows, I faced a lot of doubt from someone close to me at the time, who dismissed what I was doing and labeled it in a way that made me question myself. Walking away from that environment was scary, but it ultimately forced me to trust my instincts and fully commit to my path.

On the creative side, music production has been a huge learning curve. Teaching myself a completely new technical skill while also performing pushed me outside of my comfort zone in a big way, but it’s also been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.

I also experienced job loss, which added another layer of uncertainty. But in a way, it pushed me even further into pursuing music seriously and figuring out how to build something sustainable on my own terms.

Each of these challenges has strengthened my resilience and reinforced that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a DJ and producer, and my sound is heavily shaped by my background as a music journalist and my roots in the rock and indie scene. That perspective has influenced how I approach both DJing and production. I’m always looking for ways to blend genres and bring unexpected elements into a set.

My introduction to dance music started early, deadmau5 was the first dance CD I ever owned, and Eric Prydz was my first rave. Those moments really stayed with me and continue to influence the way I think about energy, progression, and emotion in a set.

What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly weave indie and alternative dance tracks into tech house, creating sets that feel both familiar and surprising. I’m focused on creating a distinct energy and storytelling through music that reflects my influences.

On the production side, I’ve been developing my sound by incorporating those same influences into my records. I’m especially proud of my upcoming release, “Flow,” which is coming out on Box of Cats, one of my dream labels. It feels like a huge milestone and a real reflection of how far I’ve come as an artist.

Any big plans?
I’m really excited for what’s coming up next. I’ll be making my New York City debut at The William Vale rooftop for the Paradaiso party series, supporting Tom & Collins, which feels like a huge milestone for me. I also have my upcoming release, “Flow,” coming out on Box of Cats, which I’m incredibly proud of.

Beyond that, I’ve been creating a lot of music lately that I feel more connected to than ever, and I’m excited to continue refining my sound and sharing it. I’m also looking forward to heading back to California this summer, both for inspiration and to experience some amazing shows.

Overall, my focus is on continuing to grow as both a DJ and producer, building a strong catalog of music, and expanding into new markets.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gemofficialmusic?igsh=MXFldGJmenRxYmV3dw==
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/SjiHyQbpbbvVor5l48

Image Credits
Felice Trinidad for all portraits