Rod Winston began his career opening for two DJ legends in New Jersey, DJ Gank and Grandmaster DJ T in the early 80's. He quickly became a popular house party DJ in New Jersey/New York City area. After hosting local house parties and winning some DJ battles he landed a few local club appearances in the late 80's around New Jersey. This led him to landing a resident position in Newark, NJ famous Club Zanzibar in 1989-90 opening up for the world renowned DJ and Producer Tony Humphries. This position lasted 2 years until the Zanzibar closed its doors. While at Club Zanzibar, the Saturday night dance party hosted over 5000 guests each week and became the First Dance Party in the North Jersey area to be broadcast live on Summit Communications 98.7 WRKS Kiss FM hosted by "The Queen of All Media" Wendy Williams.