Gonzo began his radio journey in 1984 as an intern at famed glam metal radio station KNAC in California. At the time, KNAC was an alternative rock station. When the format changed to a "Pure Rock" format, many of the former DJs left the station, giving Gonzo his first opportunity to move from intern to DJ. He started with the overnight shift before being moved to the night shift. In 1989, at the peak of glam metal's heyday, he was assigned to the coveted morning show, effectively launching his career.