Suede Memories

After a brief hiatus, we come back to talk about Manny's venture in being a CTE instructor at Morse High School where he shares about his experience stepping out of his shop and into one full of students. Although it has only been a short period of time, this program has been a catalyst for students to get hands-on experience in the industry and highlights the importance of mentorship, regardless of what setting it is in.

A hidden gem beaming with creativity barely scrapes the surface of who Sal Gonzalezz is. Born and raised in San Diego, Sal's artistic abilities go back as far as he can remember. Paired with his curiosity for what the world around him had to offer, Sal found himself exploring San Diego and Tijuana endlessly, which not only contributed to everlasting memories, but showed him that there is art in everything. Although Sal's entry into the workforce began at a young age, the relationship between him and his art never drifted apart. What is most humbling about Sal Gonzalezz is the way he carries himself with respect, honor, and the ambition to never stop learning. In a world so disconnected from another, Sal continues to remain as a representation of community and that good, inspiring people are still out there. His way with words paint pictures in your head about his childhood and experiences in Mexico and make you feel like you are a part of the Stage Crew during the Chicano Park celebrations. Ultimately, Sal Gonzalezz has impacted San Diego's subcultures, art scene, and city as a whole and he did it simply by being himself. His work should be displayed in distinguished museums and galleries all over the world, yet is perfectly okay without that; a quality unrecognized now. Sal Gonzalezz is most importantly, a wonderful husband, father, and friend who values genuine human interaction and reciprocity of its highest value. We celebrate the life, journey, and resilience of a modern day renaissance man; a man with a heart of gold, with a mind so human and creative, and a being so free. We celebrate and cherish, the one and only, Sal Gonzalezz.

We introduce the newest addition to, Suede Memories, Mi Vida Vixen, also known as Mia! Mia brings a refreshing new perspective and enlightening commentary to the conversation. She is an artist, a poet, a danzante, and an active member in our community. We discuss what's been on since we last met; from Santa Maria, to Manny's explanation of his piece, Tolteca that he created for the Street Legacy: So-Cal Style Master exhibition at CCAE, we pick up right where we left off.

Juan L. Flores, or better known as Wicho, has been spinning the soundtrack to car shows, backyard boogies, and everything in between for over 30 years. From Logan Heights, Wicho was bit by the lowrider bug as a youngster which greatly influenced his love for lowriding and everything it entailed. After moving to Loreto for four years, Wicho found himself back in San Diego in the early ‘90s where his life would change forever after being introduced to DJing by the late, and great DJ Pops. Although the five dollar, all you could drink functions we're it, Wicho found himself navigating the world of education by chance and realized that he could give back to others and members of his community by being a positive role model and mentor. Humbly, Wicho is a school counselor who promotes growth and encouragement to our future generations. His contributions go beyond the classroom walls and is a key figure in the Dale Gas Scholarship, which allows those students who are in the shadows to have the ability to do better in school and have a better chance in life after graduating. Wicho shares his views on education and the importance of mentorship, guidance, and always striving to better ourselves. Aside from his professional and personal accomplishments, Wicho is a proud member Viejitos Car Club and reminisces on some his rides, past and present. We celebrate the life of Juan L. Flores not only for his contributions to lowriding and being the life of the party wherever he goes, but for being a positive activist in our community and guiding our future generations to reach their full potential. His wisdom and authentic spirit is irreplaceable and his impact will be visible in the years to come. Not only is he a devoted lowrider, educator, and member of the community, he is a dedicated father, husband, son, and friend. So next time you see Wicho playing all your favorites, make sure you thank him for all of the positive things he represents.

Buckshot, gruesas, and lowriding. We bring on the charismatic Victor “Skonka” Alvarez. Born and raised in San Diego, Victor began his journey into lowriding as a youngster; with bikes being his passion, his ambition to have his very own car when he grew up never left him. As others have, Skonka shares his memories of hopping on the trolley with his friends and going to check out the cruising that would take place on Highland Ave. Although he has had a list of rides, Skonka shares about his beloved ‘76 Glasshouse that was given it's special touch by our very own, Manny Cisneros and goes back to tell us how he got it, the shit it's been through, and what's next for it. Not only does he contribute to lowriding with gruesas and his famous Skonka Juice, he uniquely crafts custom grilles and hard lines that can be seen on rides all around. True to the ‘70s, Skonka is a proud member of Street Style Car Club and can be seen pushing everywhere; to the local streets of San Diego, to Glasshouse Fest at Elysian Park, it's always a party if he is there. Aside from lowriding, Skonka shares his love for gruesas and his cherished MD 20-20 and embodies being a true ambassador of a good time. The Glasshouse Gangster, King of Gruesas, and MD20-20 Ambassador; there will never be another like Victor Alvarez and we appreciate the true artist that he is. So kick back with a gruesa, some Skonka Juice, and celebrate the life of Victor Alvarez!

Built not bought is what defines Jose Romero. From Harbor City, Jose's exposure to the art of lowriding came at the young age of 11, when an older homeboy took him and a few others to Whittier Boulevard for a cruise in a patterned out Vega. Jose was instantly hooked by the sights, sounds, and ambience of the Boulevard and is where his love for cruising and lowriding came to fruition. Setting him up to be a prestigious car builder, Jose and his family moved from Harbor City to National City in 1980, where he would experience the famous cruising on Highland Avenue. Jose quickly got involved in the local lowrider scene by joining Classics Bike Club, where he created an award winning lowrider bike that won first place at the World of Wheels. Soon after, he found himself in his first car, a 1968 Impala that he got for $200 and not long after, he was cruising everywhere. Destined to work with his hands, Jose and Sal Manzano pursued automotive painting at Del Rey as well as learning from San Diego's finest, Benny Flores. The 90's were one of the greatest decades in lowriding and Jose Romero's contributions are notably apparent. From doing a ‘59 Impala Convertible conversion that came to be Suavecito ‘59, to the impeccable Suavecito ‘58, Jose's execution has been acknowledged all over the world. Aside from the art on wheels he creates, Jose shares how his iconic brand, STR8CLOWNIN went from an idea, to a reality. Not only did STR8CLOWNIN establish itself as a brand, Jose's vision was to share the lifestyle he dedicated himself by creating the STR8CLOWNIN Tour, one of the biggest custom lowrider shows on the West Coast. As talented and impactful as he is, Jose Romero displays his love for lowriding sincerely. He teaches us authenticity, loyalty, and above all, the power of knowledge and keeping an open mind. He embraces cultura, familia, and respect amongst each other, because at the end of the day, we're united through our love for the game. Jose Romero's life can be turned into a movie; he's done and seen it all and continues to push forward no matter was obstacle he's faced with. Always staying true to himself and never forgetting where he comes from, we celebrate his life, career, and resiliency. Jose Romero is as OG as it gets, and that, along with his ongoing contributions to lowriding will stand the test of time.

There are not enough words to describe the qualities and characteristics that make Efrain "Bugs" Gonzales who he is. Seen and done it all, his captivating story begins in Mesa, Arizona where at a young age his love for cars began after seeing a commercial for the, “California Kid”. Shown the importance of humility and hard work, Bugs and his family spent their summers picking in Northern California, where on his drives up, he would notice the beautiful pinstriping and hand painted lettering on big rigs that would change his world forever. Naive to lowriding at first, that all changed once Bugs began cruising Central in Phoenix, Arizona, where the sights and sounds of cars hopping, cruising, and hitting the switches left him feeling like he was in, "Boulevard Nights". The boulevard was also the place a scroll design on a 1976 Caprice done by the legendary "E.T" struck Bugs and inspired him to learn how to stripe. But before he began to lay down lines, Bugs' journey in automotive art began as a painter's helper for his friend Jesse Anaya, who helped Bugs' paint his 1964 Impala. Not only did he receive a beautiful piece of art, he soaked up valuable knowledge and information that gave him the confidence to run with his dream. His introduction to striping also came soon after, when he saw a man by the name of, "J.B", pinstriping at a local car show. Overflowing with curiosity, Bugs had his '64 striped, but watching J.B would be an understatement. Bugs examined everything he did while he striped his car; the way he held his brush, his toolbox, his paints, his brushes, everything. Bugs went on to practice the art of pinstriping religiously and after a year, he was given the opportunity to stripe his buddy Anthony's car, and that's where "Bugs Did It" was born. This led him to seek the guidance and respect of Butch Tucker, one of the greatest stripers in Arizona. Although hesitant at first, Bugs' put aside what he had heard and put it all on the line to learn from the best and accomplished exactly what he had set out to do.Everyone says '90's car shows were something else and Bugs was there to experience it. At a car show in Phoenix, Bugs meets a young Mister Cartoon, who had been intrigued by his striping and was eager to meet him. Although Bugs never thought of Los Angeles, he and Cartoon exchanged numbers and kept in touch. After a few three in the morning phone calls, Bugs decided to take him up on his offer and see what LA was all about. Cartoon quickly introduced Bugs to Los Angeles, and soon Bugs found himself actively going to shows, working on perfecting his craft, attending LA Trade Tech, and meeting a network of artists, including OG Abel, Doc Guthrie and a very special artist, Danny D. Always paying his respects, Bugs never forgets the impact Mister Cartoon had on his career and life. Together the two were members of Lifestyle Car Club, created timeless works of art, and contributed to the rich culture and history that still impacts others to this day. Bugs is not only a gifted artist, he is a one-of-a-kind friend. Bugs reminisces on his friendship with the late and great Danny D and the memories they created. Together, they formed a bond that was founded on respect, encouragement, and loyalty. Whether it was breaking bread or working together to create lasting work, Danny D and Bugs were the dynamic duo that has inspired people all over the globe. The legacy left by Danny D is remembered by Bugs and he continues to embody his gentle personality everyday. The memories and experiences of Efrain "Bugs" Gonzales are enough to write a book. It is a story of sacrifice and devotion; the one of a pioneer who changed the art of lowriding and automotive art, and will go down in history as one of the greatest to ever live. We cherish and celebrate the life and legacy of Efrain "Bugs" Gonzales and Danny D Galvez, not only for their contribution to what we love, but for carrying themselves with their humble hearts. 

Chop tops and the art of metal shaping are the driving factors of Tim Klopson, owner of Moonshine Metal Shaping in El Cajon, California. From Sacramento, California, Tim began welding at the young age of fifteen as a way to stay out of trouble. Not long after, he found himself reinforcing frames for his friends, working on hoppers, and welding anything that was asked of him. Reminiscing on how his love for kustoms and restyling came to be, Tim shares his first build: a 1951 Chevy Hardtop that was not only chopped once or twice, but three times. Although he could have been a professional snowboarder, Tim embarked on making his dream of chopping and working on cars a reality and shares the influence and knowledge he gained from some of the best, like Jesse Miller and Tony Tyrrell. Although Tim has played an important role in some beautiful builds, he continues mastering his craft and having the same humble approach he always has. Will he be chopping cars in the metaverse? Who knows, but what we are sure of is that Tim Klopson is carrying the torch that those before us lit, and will go down in history along with them, rightfully so.

We welcome Omar Lopez to Suede Memories as the first musician to share their inspirational story of where pursuing one's dreams can get you. Born and raised in Calipatria, California, Omar shares the unique memories of his experiences growing up in the Imperial Valley; from hanging out at the Salvation Mountain to exploring the incomparable Slab City. In a town as small as Calipatria, Omar recalls his first introduction to music and what lead him to pick up an instrument for the first time. Although he had no idea his talent would take him to play all over the world, Omar discusses the impact a high school teacher had on him, which resulted in him attending San Diego State University to continue his education. Omar's dedication and love for music has allowed him to connect with people from all over the globe and shares some of his most memorable experiences connecting with other cultures which has contributed to his remarkable out look on life. Aside from his experiences touring and playing with a variety of bands and musicians, Omar shares how he began playing bass for the Original Wailers and how seven years later, they continue to impact the world through their music. Omar has notably played alongside Poncho Sanchez, Stanley Jordan, Jose Luis "Changuito" Quintana, Chunky Sanchez, and San Diego's favorite, the B-Side Players; he also created the Suede Memories jingle in collaboration with Manny and Elsie Cisneros. Omar Lopez has accomplished great heights in his young career and continues to thrive not only professionally, but in all other aspects of life which is why Omar Lopez is and will be one of the world's most notable musicians of our time.

We welcome the award-winning and legendary San Diego tattoo artist, Fip Buchanan. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Fip shares about his life growing up and how his interest in art took him to the world of tattooing at the age of 21. While attending the Art Institute of Pennsylvania, Fip reminisces on meeting Red Schuster and Duke Miller, who had been tattooing out of a 70's boogie van, and his experiences learning the art of tattooing and creating some of his first tattoos out of there. Alongside Patty Kelley, together tattooing took them to Long Island, New York, Richmond, Virginia, and in 1987, made their way to San Diego, where they opened up the world-famous Avalon Tattoo in Pacific Beach on July 5th, 1989. Their dedication and ambition to the art of tattooing contributed to some of the most beautiful work done in San Diego and laid out the foundation for the future of tattooing. Fip's humility, passion, and artistry are some of the many reasons he is a legendary figure in the tattoo world alongside some notable figures who have had a great influence on him such as, Don Ed Hardy, Jack Rudy, and Bob Roberts. Aside from his love for tattooing, Fip shares about his introduction to Kustoms and some of the rides he has driven the shit out of, and his most recent, a beautiful 1952 Chevy, painted and pinstriped by Manny Cisneros. You can find Fip tattooing at Avalon Tattoo 2, where he is still creating tattoos that look like tattoos. When he's not tattooing, he is proudly cruising and representing his club, The Beatniks. Like all guests on Suede Memories, Fip Buchanan was meant to do something special: tattooing. Through hard work, dedication, and confidence, he has accomplished to be one of the most notable artists in the world. With that, let us celebrate the life, legacy, and person that is Fip Buchanan.

In this episode our very own Manny Cisneros or, Manny McLean takes us back to his first ride; not a Dodge Colt, but an '82 Camaro. He reminisces on his experiences, both good and bad; from cruising with his buddies through Hollywood at three in the morning, to trading that '82 Camaro for a '79 Camaro straight across. Manny describes his first attempt at flaming out his car with the help of his lifelong friend Jerry and the ridiculous amounts of tape runs they made to Home Depot. Although they only achieved to do one side and the hood, this is when Manny realized his artistic gift and ability was there, but little did he know that his determination and humble approach would take him to be one of the world's most recognized artists in the industry today.

We are proud to present our next episode with not only an iconic figure in the kustom and lowriding scene in San Diego, but all over the world, Mr. David "El Abuelo" Aguilar. Born in Tijuana, Mexico, David shares about his upbringing and the influence his brothers had on him getting into cars. He reflects on his memories of hanging around National City and Otay in the 1960's and '70s; partying, getting into trouble, and almost getting drafted to the Vietnam War. Always having something cool to drive, David was a member of the Chicano Brothers Car Club in National City, which is notably recognized as one of the first car clubs in San Diego. Aside from the Chicano Brothers, David has proudly represented Classics Car Club, Shades of the Fifties, the Sacred Karts, and his current club, Ilegales. Not only has David been a dedicated supporter of the car scene, he also describes his experience participating in the take over of Chicano Park and takes us back to some of his experiences at El Parque. From Paso Robles to Japan, David's humility and nobleness is what makes him such a notable figure in this culture. Always taking care of his family, friends, and community, David continues to drive his shit, document his experiences, and most importantly, continues to be the person he has always been. David "El Abuelo" Aguilar is a one-of-a-kind and cannot be replaced; there will never be another so let us celebrate and share his legacy.

In our first episode of 2022, we bring on the one-of-a-kind, jack of all trades, Pinche Vic! Born in Tijuas but raised in North Park, Vic's love for cars began at a young age. Whether he was hanging out at the drag races with his master mechanic dad, or around at his uncle's upholstery shop, Vic's love and appreciation for kustoms, lowriders, and cars motivated him to take it to the next level. Vic shares about his experience learning the world of hydraulics from Steve at SA Hydraulics, taking an upholstery class for extra credits in high school, and the builds he has been a part of. Aside from his expertise, Vic has also had his share of badass cars including his favorite: '65 Chevys. As knowledgable as he is, Vic is always learning and growing; making sure that this culture, tradition, and lifestyle does not become a thing of the past. Not only he is a true jack-of-all trades, he is a great member of the community, mentor, and friend. So with that, let us celebrate, Pinche Vic!

We take it back to the roots and pick up from where we left off in episode one. From talking about the impact musicians like Reverend Horton Heat had to kustom kulture to discussing, "the guy" and how many different versions of them are out there; nothing but stories of "Suede Memories"!

We are honored to share this special episode with the Jimi Hendrix of kustom paint, Benny Flores. From painting motorcycles with lacquer spray cans to being the backbone of the series, 'Lords of the Car Hoards', Benny takes us through his life story and reflects on his business and the humbling triumphs throughout it. Through hard work and confidence, Benny has painted some of the world's most iconic mini-trucks like, "Wrapped with Envy" and "Raw Deal". Not only is he a phenomenal artist and craftsman, Benny's unique outlook on life is what makes him a certain kind of special. Benny takes us back to meeting a 22-year old Manny at Hot Rod City, which was the spark of their student-mentor relationship that has resulted in collaborating on countless projects throughout the years. The world will never see another man like this, so please help us share and celebrate of career and life of the one and only, Benny Flores.

Paso Robles, Kustoms, and 20 years of friendship. In episode three of Suede Memories, we welcome the one and only, Johnny Adkins. Born in Dayton, Ohio, Johnny was brought to San Diego, CA through his career in the U.S. Navy where he found his love for cars and kustom kulture. Johnny takes us back to the days of Paso Robles with stories that just can't be made up and shares the influence San Diego legends like Tony Falcon had on him. Celebrating 20 years of friendship, Manny and Johnny reminisce on their days in the Strays CC and the golden days of cruising up and down California. Aside from building badass cars, Johnny also talks about the kustom shifters he makes and lets you know how to get one for free! So kick back, grab a 12 pack, and enjoy. Thank you, Johnny! C/S

In this episode, we welcome local legend Dane Danner as our first guest on, Suede Memories. As a successful graphic designer and illustrator, Dane takes us through his career, some notable accomplishments, and how his '55 Chevy Wagon came to be. Inspired by surfing, skating, and punk rock, Dane has worked alongside some of the most notable surf and skate brands around and has added his talent to some of San Diego's finest restaurants. Not only is Dane a creative, he is a devoted father, husband, and down to earth individual. Thank you, Dane!

We welcome you to Suede Memories. In this episode, we introduce ourselves and go in-depth on pinstriping, kustom cars, and give you a taste of what to expect from Suede Memories; all from CSNRS Color Studio in El Cajon, California.