Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to John Colwell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
John, appreciate you joining us today. One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?
“First off, I am the co-owner and manager of JacksHouseDallas. We throw legal after-hour events downtown at the Lounge, 2204 Elm Street, primarily featuring house music, but we will also host other vibes in our side room. Obtaining the Late Night Dance Permit for this venue was more challenging than we anticipated, but our location and the demand to be back in action drove us to the finish line despite all the challenges we faced.
“Initially, we believed that refraining from alcohol sales would allow us to operate after hours. However, after receiving a citation for not having a promoter permit, we quickly learned that there were more permits we needed to obtain. Consequently, we temporarily closed our doors to navigate the permitting process. We worked with the city to obtain a commercial promoter permit and an operator permit. We got the green light to open. Despite obtaining the necessary permits, our reopening was hindered by the absence of a Dance permit, which we weren’t aware of initially. So, we shut down again.
“The struggle extended as we faced prolonged delays in permit approvals, contrary to the city ordinance stipulating a 30-day timeframe for a response. It took nearly six months to secure the initial dance permit, restricting our operating hours until 2 am. Subsequently, we were denied the late-night permit due to our proximity to a residential parking garage.
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The financial burden of rent payments during closure and legal expenses for permits became increasingly heavy. Seeking recourse, we engaged a permitting specialist and pursued an appeal. However, after presenting our case to the city council and demonstrating compliance with safety protocols, we were eventually granted the necessary permit 10 months later, and they viewed us as an asset to the community.
“While the approval was cause for celebration, further delays ensued due to re-inspections and approvals from various city departments. Scheduling conflicts compounded these delays, creating uncertainty among the public regarding our reopening and prohibiting us from being able to get back to work.
“Amid these challenges, I’ve personally endured harassment and threats from unknown sources. These baseless attacks, harassment, and defamation, coupled with attempts at venue sabotage—such as tampering with the plumbing, making fake 911 calls, and even arson—have only strengthened our resolve to uphold professionalism and integrity.
“Despite facing unfair competition from illegal after-hours clubs, our commitment to legal compliance and quality entertainment remains steadfast. The impending demolition of our venue at some point to make way for an $11 million high rise adds another layer of uncertainty, but we remain focused on delivering exceptional experiences for our patrons.
“In conclusion, our journey has been fraught with obstacles, but our dedication to the community and the music fuels our perseverance. We’re not just fighting for our right to party; we’re paving the way for a Lawful, Safe, and Vibrant nightlife scene in Dallas.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
“Well, howdy y’all! I’m JohnWayne, and yes, that’s my real name. For those unfamiliar, I’ve been deeply entrenched in the event industry for two decades, both as a DJ and event organizer. Currently, I helm JohnWaynePresents and curate one-off events. Additionally, I’m proud to be a co-owner of Jack’s House Dallas, and DJ with my wife as, ‘TEAM UMAMI’!
“My journey into the industry began with a transformative experience at a rave at the American Airlines Center featuring Rabbit in the Moon. Since then, I’ve been captivated by the world of music and events, transitioning from the dancefloor to the DJ booth and eventually stepping into the realm of event promotion. Along the way, I’ve been inspired by figures like Willie Trimmer of the 12 Inch Pimps crew, now known as Agency12, whose influence led me to carve my own path in the industry. After catching DJ Tiesto’s headphones when I was 21, I became a DJ and have never stopped. This has been my life ever since.
“Returning to Dallas after a 10-year hiatus on the West Coast, playing shows and living in Vegas, Hawaii, and Arizona, my wife and I found ourselves diving headfirst into live streaming during the pandemic. As the world began to reopen, I took on the challenge of managing Sanctuary Dallas, one of the city’s only open dance clubs operating under strict protocols. After that run, I began collaborating with Willie Trimmer (my current business partner) at the Underground Dallas in the basement of the Aloft hotel downtown, while we breathed new life into JacksHouse, reviving it from its pre-pandemic roots at a spot called Subsolo.
“Our journey has taken us through various venues, culminating in a memorable stint at FEVERMATIC in Oak Cliff. There, we were blessed with a neon-lit haven showcasing the talents of DFW’s top muralists and run by the most talented creatives I’ve ever met. However, permit issues prompted a shift in focus, igniting my passion to establish a 100% legal after-hours dance club.
“Today, my mission remains clear: to advocate for our right to dance while fostering a thriving nightlife scene in Dallas. Beyond JacksHouse, I’m involved in projects like Drum Djam at the Green Elephant, Advisory committee for 24 hours dallas, and various festival ventures, with Dancefetopia and Backwoods, all while managing my wife’s bookings as DJ BAELIEN and raising our 5-year-old son, Atlas.
“Ultimately, our goal is to expand JacksHouse to other cities, elevate BAELIEN to global stardom, produce major festivals, run a label and talent management company, and share the joy of music with audiences worldwide through TeamUmamiMusic.
“In essence, my journey is one fueled by passion, perseverance, and a deep love for music and community. Whether it’s through our events, DJ sets, or advocacy work, I strive to make a positive impact and spread God’s love wherever I go.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
“Yeah, I want to keep this one short and simple. I came from humble beginnings, dropped out of high school to become a raver. Eventually, I obtained my GED, went to college with a student loan, and bought DJ equipment. I taught myself how to DJ, struggled for years, and eventually became skilled enough to play out and started throwing parties. I dropped out of college, moved to Dallas, and continued pursuing my passion.
When I was 25, I relocated to Vegas and lived a rock star life, but also faced challenges, including a stint in prison in Arizona at age 28. As Eminem and Justin Timberlake would say, ‘The old me is dead and gone.’ It was a turning point for me; I got my life together while incarcerated. When I was released, I transformed my life and created the one I have now. If I can do it, anyone can. I’m a testament to the fact that it doesn’t matter where you come from or what you’ve been through; with faith and hard work, you can achieve the life you desire. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I believe I’m where I’m supposed to be. If I can help others along the way, that’s why I’m here.”
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
“My ultimate aspiration is to exemplify God’s love through the creation of enriching experiences that instill feelings of love and appreciation in others. I aim to serve as an inspiration for individuals to persevere, to stand firm for their beliefs, and to lead lives marked by responsibility and purpose.
Moreover, I am driven to construct something truly remarkable for my family, to be their provider, and to impart upon my son the invaluable lesson that life is a canvas we paint ourselves, where nothing is beyond our reach.
Furthermore, I yearn to explore the world alongside my loved ones, using our music and our message of peace, love, and hope to spread positivity and harmony wherever we go.”
I also aspire to establish a prison ministry in the future, dedicated to assisting individuals transitioning from incarceration to society by providing them with the necessary resources and support to rebuild their lives and avoid recidivism.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_johnwaynepresents/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100017020631582
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/jackshousedallas/
Image Credits
Clinton Bales Phoneix Taylor- Fevermatic