The Danny Soto story is not as common as it may have been 20-30 years ago. These days it’s only a few people that can recall the stories of kids growing up in the East Los Angeles area, in the height of the Lowrider culture. Being the youngest of five brothers, Danny was exposed to lowriders and the gang life at very early age. Car building, tattoos, good music (KRLA) and cruising were at the core of it all. The Groupe Car Club became the destination for Danny and he’s been there ever since the 1970’s. The cars Danny built reflect his love for the club and family. The 65’ Impala dubed Cold Blooded, after the Rick James banger, would be seen cruising the bully on Sundays. Danny has stories after stories and has a special bond with lowriders and the culture.

Jose Ruiz best known as ‘Yoya’ of J&R Upholstery, in East LA, has quite the reputation. That’s what happens when you’ve become a master of upholstery and a part of at least three different East Side Story Records, of oldies. His car, his son and even he has been on the covers. Yoya really is a time capsule of lowrider information but he’s also lived every second of it. Something tells me I’ve only heard a little bit of all the information and history he has. Thanks to his son, Jose for keeping on with all the traditions. Talk to you soon, Yoya.