This week sucks and there’s no other way to describe it. We are still mourning over the loss of Vinnie Paul, who passed away last Friday (22nd). Another tragedy struck a few days later when former Vital Remains vocalist Jake Raymond died. We are saddened to report that punk rock legend Steve Soto has passed away in his sleep yesterday (27th) at 54. Soto was the original and only constant member of The Adolescents, and also a founding member of Agent Orange. The Adolescents were just about to release their new album Crop Duster and has just wrapped up their tour this past Sunday (24th), which is now hard to imagine he died three days later. Soto’s collaborator, Greg Antista broke the news on Facebook, writing the following message:
“I’m sorry to break such bad news in such an impersonal way but the family of Steve Soto would like everyone to know that he passed peacefully in his sleep today. I’m sure this is a terrible blow to all of you. He will be missed. We will be posting details on a memorial as plans are finalized.”
Soto’s cause of death remains unknown. His career in punk rock was legendary as he also played with bands Manic Hispanic, 22 Jacks, Joyride, CJ Ramone, and many more.
We send our condolences to Steve’s friends, family, and bandmates during this difficult time.
with heavy heart i share the passing of steve soto, my friend and bandmate since 1979. i dont know what to do. or to say.
goodbye my brother.
— The Adolescents (@TheAdolescents) June 28, 2018
“Truly saddened to hear of the passing of my old friend, and original bandmate Steve Soto. Everyone knows how awesome he was, so I don’t feel the need to elaborate. He was the punk rock Paul McCartney, and he will be greatly missed.
~Mike Palm”
We are shocked & saddened to confirm that our wonderful friend Steve Soto passed away in his sleep. An immeasurable loss to music & humanity, the shock has yet to really sink in…
— Frontier Records (@frontierrcds) June 28, 2018
Not a whole lot of people I’ve met in my life that I could call up anytime, anywhere, any condition and they would help. My brother Steve Soto was one of the few. I own most of what I’ve… https://t.co/r2co6GngFM
— Cj Ramone (@theecjramone) June 28, 2018
Two years ago with Adolescents in Germany…. RIP Steve Soto: Much love & massive respect. – SxTx pic.twitter.com/WWuFdxB4Cz
— SUICIDAL TENDENCIES (@OFFICIALSTIG) June 28, 2018
I’m so fucking sad right now. R.I.P. to one of the sweetest most talented people I have EVER met. My absolute heartfelt condolences to everyone who was touched by the great STEVE SOTO!!!!#RIP #stevesoto #mybassguitarhero
— Rob Ruckus (@RobRuckusVegas) June 28, 2018
We are truly at a loss for words to hear about the passing of our great friend Steve Soto. The nicest guy in punk rock. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.
RIP #SteveSoto ❤ pic.twitter.com/4Cs1cCyBqD— The Vandals (@TheVandals) June 28, 2018
We are devastated by the news of Steve Soto’s passing. He played in so many great bands, was a great bass player, guitar player, & singer, but mostly he was just an honest & sweet guy. He was our hero in the Adolescents and an inspiration to us as musicians. #heartbroken
— Offspring (@offspring) June 28, 2018
RIP Steve Soto, our condolences to you & yours. ❤ https://t.co/N1kuRnHnI8
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) June 28, 2018