This shot of Steve Soto and Gabby Gaborno from Manic Hispanic was taken during their unforgettable Cinco de Mayo performance at the Observatory in Orange County, California, in 2013. It’s a photo that holds a special place in my heart. Steve and Gabby weren’t just iconic musicians—they were my friends. I had the privilege of photographing them for years, and this image captures a moment I’ll never forget. Both of them have since passed, which makes this memory all the more meaningful.

That night, the energy was electric—a perfect mix of humor, heart, and raw punk spirit. Steve, known as El Hoakie Loco, was steady and commanding with his guitar, while Gabby, or Jefe, poured every ounce of himself into the performance, his larger-than-life personality lighting up the stage. Together, they were the driving force behind Manic Hispanic’s unique blend of punk rock and Chicano culture.

Manic Hispanic’s brilliance was in their ability to reimagine punk classics through the lens of East L.A. humor and heritage. Songs like The Damned’s “New Rose” became “New Rosa,” and the Buzzcocks’ “Orgasm Addict” transformed into “Ordinary Addict.” Their albums The Menudo Incident and The Recline of Mexican Civilization are classics, but their live performances were truly where they shone. That night, the crowd laughed, sang along, and celebrated every moment, making it one of those shows you never forget.

This photo reminds me of everything I loved about Steve and Gabby—their humor, their talent, and the way they brought people together. For me, it’s not just an image; it’s a memory of two incredible friends and the community they helped build through their music.

Setlist from the Observatory, May 5, 2013:

Barrio Breakout, Mas Chingones, Pay to Cum, My Homeboy Is a Joto, Menudo Morning Nightmare, I’m Just a Cholo, Barrio Land, Lupe I’m Free, Get Up Your Late, Wasted/East L.A., Mommy’s Little Cholo, Uncle Chato’s Garden, Rudy Cholo, Big Heinas, She Turned Into Llorona, Stuck in the Bano, Big Chorizo, Lowriders From Mars, New Rosa, Cruise, I Want to Be a Cholo, Mexican Society.