Cheech and Chong Lowrider Culture

Episode: 0069
How Two Men Brought Us Lowrider Culture

   Lowriders are part of the aftermarket world, no matter what someone tells you.  But did you know that Cheech and Chong helped influence its rise during the 70's and 80's.  We take a look back at how they did it and how their influence changed both cinematic and lowrider culture.

   Cheech and Chong burst onto our silver screen back in 1978 and from that moment their act had finally reached stardom.  From fake boobs to a lot of green, "Up in Smoke" is one the great cult classics from the 70's.  Their influence on modern society at the time was extraordinary, as they showed what life was like on the other side of the tracks.  But their influence dove much deeper than modern society, as they brought to lite the world of Lowriders.

    If you didn't notice them during their first two movies, then you might not be a true fan.  The Love Machine, a 1964 Chevrolet Impala, might not have been your show car lowrider, but did have some culture hits from the time.  A small steering wheel, dropped suspension and and over the top interior made this ride a low end lowrider.  But that car made the movie for car fans, as we all fell in love with the "Love Machine"

     It may not have seemed like a big part of the movie, but the Love Machine made an impact on lowrider culture.  With a follow up Van in "Next Movie", this love affair with lowriders became more apparent.  Today this culture is thriving and has even spawned a movie "Lowriders".  Along with hit magazines like Lowrider, this industry will keep on going, even if the Love Machine, doesn't come back.

Everett J.
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