Though his cause of death has not yet been revealed, Soto's passing was confirmed by his family and friends. He died in his sleep yesterday (June 27).
Soto formed the Adolescents in 1980 and was the only constant member throughout the band's decades-long career. The group recently concluded a tour and were gearing up to release a new album called Crop Duster.
Soto's long and illustrious career also included time as a member of Agent Orange, as well as contributing to releases from Manic Hispanic, 22 Jacks, Joyride and CJ Ramone, among others.
Read tributes to the late Soto below.
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.
— The Adolescents (@TheAdolescents) June 28, 2018
goodbye my brother.
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.
— The Vandals (@TheVandals) June 28, 2018
RIP #SteveSoto ❤️ pic.twitter.com/4Cs1cCyBqD
RIP Steve Soto
— John Feldmann (@JohnFeldy) June 28, 2018
RIP Steve Soto, our condolences to you & yours. ❤️ https://t.co/N1kuRnHnI8
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) 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
Kids of the black hole forever. RIP Steve Soto.
— COLD CAVE (@ColdCave23) June 28, 2018
