Mark Gonzo Gonzalez

Guitars / Vocals / Percussion

After receiving his first guitar at the impressionable age of twelve years, Gonzo has set forth on a musical journey that continues to explore some serious sonic real estate. A self-taught guitarist for the first nine years of this journey would prove his passion for playing as he joined and founded multiple rock ensembles while creating original music. Attending CSU Chico to receive a BA in Classical Guitar performance and an MA in music with an emphasis on Classical guitar and Composition helped to hone in and improve on his abilities. Here Chingus was founded in 2001 along with long time friends and fellow musicians Marcus Schmidt and Daniel Reynolds. It was also during this time that Gonzo became highly involved in the Chico music scene by participating in the Chico State Guitar Quartet, Chico State Gospel choir, Jazz X-press, Loose Booty, Brownhouse, and The Chris Schadt Band to just name a few.

Today Gonzo resides in Sacramento and continues to light up the stage with Chingus, Ten Mile Tide, Thaw Jack Frost, and Swamp Zen. There are always new projects on the horizon as he continues to surround himself with northern California's best and brightest musicians. A proven road warrior, keep on the lookout for Gonzo as he might just set your town on fire!