JENKEM MIX 105: Mark Gonzales - The Embodiment of Skateboarding

If you were to ask any skater about their biggest inspiration, the name “Mark Gonzales,” or “The Gonz” as he’s widely known, would undoubtedly come up. This response has become so common that it’s almost a cliché, a reflex nod before moving on. But, it’s worth exploring why this is the case.

Mark Gonzales is not just a skater; he’s a pioneer who has shaped skateboarding in numerous ways for over three decades. From the way videos are made to the tricks we try, board shapes, and many other aspects of the sport, Gonzales has left an undeniable mark. More than that, he embodies the best parts of skateboarding: freedom, fun, and endless possibilities. His approach is defined by genuine fascination and curiosity, qualities that can often fade away in adulthood, making him a timeless figure— a true Peter Pan of skateboarding.

To celebrate his influence, Adidas released The Aloha Super “Brainwash Victim” shoe, a tribute to the shirt Gonzales sported during his famous EMB gap ollie featured in Thrasher back in 1986. We decided to jump on the hype and invited Mark to curate our latest Jenkem Mix, resulting in a collection as unique and influential as the man himself.

Mark Gonzales mix cover art

Table of Contents

The Gonz: A Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration

Gonzales’s impact extends far beyond just his skating. He is a cultural icon who has influenced the art, fashion, and music that surround skateboarding. His innovative spirit is not confined to the board but also translates into his creative endeavors, making him a true Renaissance man within the skate community. He challenges the established norms, encouraging others to do the same.

His style isn’t just about the tricks he does but the way he does them – a mix of raw power, creativity, and playful experimentation. This uninhibited approach is what makes him so relatable and inspiring to skaters of all levels. He reminds us that skating is as much about the journey as it is about the destination, promoting a more carefree and imaginative approach to the sport.

Close up of the track list for Mark Gonzales mix

Mark Gonzales’s Jenkem Mix

This mix curated by Mark Gonzales is a reflection of his eclectic tastes and diverse influences. Like his skating style, the mix is unpredictable, blending different genres and tempos to create a listening experience that’s both familiar and surprising. It captures the essence of his approach to skateboarding, showcasing his ability to find beauty and inspiration in unexpected places.

The mix includes a variety of tracks, ranging from classic rock to experimental electronica, punk, and more, reflecting the wide spectrum of influences that have shaped Gonzales’s skating and life. This mix is not just a playlist; it’s a journey into the mind of one of skateboarding’s most iconic figures, providing a deeper understanding of what makes him such an enduring source of inspiration.

Explore More Jenkem Mixes

If you’re looking for more diverse musical selections from influential figures in skateboarding, check out these other mixes:

Natas Kaupas
Bad Brains
Heath Kirchart
Bill Strobeck
Blondey McCoy
Louie Lopez
Nora Vasconcellos
Alltimers
Rodrigo TX
Stefan Janoski
Franky Villani
Pass~Port
The 69 Mix
Beagle
LurkNYC
Bam Margera
Mike Arnold
Jason Sallilas
Kevin Rodrigues.

This mix, curated by Mark Gonzales, is a tribute to his ongoing influence and is a reminder of why he remains an iconic figure in the skateboarding world.

Mixed by: Michna
Photo: Zander Taketomo
Special Thanks: Alice Chung & Mariana Martinez.

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Conclusion

Mark Gonzales’s legacy in skateboarding is undeniable, and his Jenkem Mix is another testament to his creative and innovative spirit. It serves as a reminder of his impact and how he encourages skaters to think differently about the sport. By embracing freedom, glee, and infinite possibility, Gonzales continues to inspire skaters around the globe. This mix is an invitation to dive deeper into the mindset of a true skateboarding legend and to be inspired to skate with the same passion and curiosity.