The Adolescents / Agent Orange Founder Steve Soto Dead at 54

Punk legend Steve Soto has died at age 54. Soto was a founding member of both the Adolescents and Agent Orange, helping launch the Southern California punk rock scene in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s.

Nearly four decades into their career, the Adolescents had just finished a U.S. tour and were about to invade Europe for a string of summer shows. The band has been prepping for the release of their ninth studio album, Cropduster, which is set for a July 7 street date.

“Steve … spent Tuesday evening doing what he loved to do; recording and making music with his friends Greg Antista and Jim Monroe, and was very much looking forward to the upcoming European tour starting next week," the band and Soto’s family said in a joint statement. "Wednesday afternoon he passed away peacefully in his sleep. This has taken us all by surprise. Our hearts and prayers are now with his family and friends. We ask during this time to respect their privacy. Thank you so much for the years of love and support you have shown Steve and all of his bands. It means so much and will not be forgotten.”

The Adolescents also took to Twitter to pay tribute to Soto:

Punk rock giants across the genre have been paying tribute to Soto, including Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong, the Offspring and Rancid.

We’d like to send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of Steve Soto. To the fans, make sure you blast “Amoeba” today and let the neighbors hear it.

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