Gonzilla, also known as The Gonz Beats, is a hip-hop producer from Mankato, Minnesota, who now resides in Rochester, Minnesota. From a young age, he displayed a natural passion for music, often creating rhythms on pots and pans or attempting to replicate melodies on a toy keyboard. His musical journey took a significant turn in 1990 when he was introduced to Too Short’s Short Dog’s In The House, which sparked his deep love for West Coast gangsta rap and G-funk. While his appreciation for various genres grew over time, hip-hop remained at the core of his musical expression.
Present
Today, Gonzilla is an active member of the White Collar Rhymes (WCR) community, contributing as an in-house producer and working on various projects with artists both locally and internationally. His journey back to music production began after a period of personal challenges, including a divorce and a contracting job in Afghanistan, where he rekindled his love for creating music. Since rebranding himself as The Gonz Beats, he has collaborated with numerous artists, including those from The Fraternity, and provided in-house production for Homegrown Entertainment. His work reflects his diverse musical influences, allowing him to seamlessly blend genres and adapt to different styles.
What's Next
Looking ahead, Gonzilla plans to continue expanding his musical repertoire and refining his production skills. His ability to adapt and explore various genres positions him as a versatile and valuable member of the White Collar Rhymes collective. With a focus on continuous growth and collaboration, Gonzilla aims to further solidify his place in the hip-hop community, creating innovative music that resonates with a wide audience.