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.

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. 

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.

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.