Drifting On Memories

Buggs might just be ‘The Most Interesting Man in Lowriding’. An amazing talented painter, a promoter for one of the earliest and successful lowrider shows and might have been the main character of a movie. There’s so much to this one man. He’s got stories after stories. It’s no wonder people want to make documentary and books about his life. We chopped it up after a nice meal at the local Norms in Pico. Like Chicanos do. Enjoy, and hope to have him and Mark Aragon back soon. Trip out on Buggs.

Gusmano came to America from Italy, following his dreams. While in Los Angeles he was captivated by the lowrider cars and the people of East Los. Some of his photos are the most iconic by capturing the truth of the times. Listen as he gives his first hand account of the neighborhoods, the Chicano styles and the parties and his spiritual connections to the people. Gusmano has led a life less ordinary and has the amazing pictures to prove it.

Memo Chop is an all around car and bike builder. Believe it or not, he’s been cruising lowriders and chopper motorcycles since the 50’s and 60’s. His famous 37’ Chevy became an icon when good friend Teen Angel recreated it on a cover with La Vírgen de Guadalupe. Memo becomes emotional reminiscing of his good friends’ honorable mention. He might be best known for his custom car building but make no mistake, Memo has made his mark on lowriders and custom choppers world. Here’s to Memo and all the other OG Chicano builders.

The interview with Trevelen Rabanal might not be what you think it is. The award winning chopper builder talks more about his days building memorable lowriders, and the madness of the 90’s lowrider scene. Along the way, Trevelen makes the connection with Hawaiian surf culture, lowriders and motorcycles.

What’s a Zoot Suiter?! Pachuco Manny Alcaraz draped in his zoot suit cruising his 1933 Chevy Eagle, down the same Los Angeles streets where the Zoot Suit Riots took place in 1943. The Zoot Suit era and style is important to Manny. He co-founded the Los Angeles, Zoot Suit Riots cruise. A lowrider bombs cruise through LA to commemorate the riots of 1943, against young men and woman Zoot Suiters. Manny reminds us of the past and the styles that keep us proud. Oralé!

Steve Gonzalez is a true historian with lived experience. Steve built an iconic chopped 50’ Merc in his driveway and worked for Lowrider magazine, all while in his teen years! Hear the stories behind some of the most memorable Lowrider cover photos and the craziness happening at the magazine staff office. Did you know about Lowrider beer???

A true historian with lived experience. Steve Gonzalez built an iconic chopped 50’ Merc and worked for Lowrider magazine, all while in his teen years! Hear his stories behind some of the most memorable cover photos and the craziness happening at the staff office. Did you know about LRM beer???

Nick’s is the story of lowrider redemption. A long time lowrider, he’s seen the Lowrider Club Wars of the early 70’s and he’s ready to tell us less then half of it. Lol! Regardless of what he’s been a part of, he is now dedicated to unify all car clubs and extend his hospitality to all lowriders. Nick is the President of his club and takes the role extremely serious. If you’re in his club you’re family. The Orpheus car club was synonymous with some of the toughest guys around Whittier Bl., but today they do their best to give back to their community and have a good time! Thanks to Nick and the Orpheus Car Club. Trucha con la carucha!

Santa Ana Lowriders stand up! Your city councilman, Johnathan Hernandez is representing to the fullest. Sharing his personal stories of growing up in the varrio and learning of lowrider family culture. He say, “Our culture should not be criminalized, our culture should be embraced for what it is because that’s what cruising is about”. Today he is fighting for our right to cruise peacefully. Introducing and celebrating a Chicano Heritage month in August in the city of Santa Ana. Let’s all support this the way Bristo St. has been supporting lowriding for decades. Oralé SANTANA!

California Assemblywoman, Luz Rivas to join the Drifting on Memories podcast! She has offered to explain more about the ACR 176 bill to legalize lowrider cruising! Who better to explain the bill, but the woman that wrote it. Luz has strong connections to her community, family and culture. She is a true champion from the hood. Recently, the Assemblywoman has been working hard to promote the ACR 176 bill, to end the discriminating anti-cruising laws in California! Thank you Luz. La lucha sigue!