Episode 28- Gangbanging, Tattoos, and Paying it ForwardEpisode 28- Gangbanging, Tattoos, and Paying it Forward
Rescue the Rescuer
Join World Renowned Tattoo Artist and Former Gang Member Freddy Negrete as we talk about his childhood, road to destruction, and the dramatic change that occurred in his life. Legendary tattoo artist Freddy Negrete is best known for his pioneering...
58:46•7 Mar 2018
Freddy Negrete: From Gangs and Addiction to Tattoo Legend and Mentor
“It's not about making the money, it's about changing people's lives.”
Freddy Negrete's life reads like a movie script, but it's all real. In this gripping episode of 'Rescue the Rescuer', Freddy takes us on a journey from his tumultuous childhood in gang-ridden East LA to becoming a world-renowned tattoo artist. Negrete, best known for pioneering the black-and-gray tattoo style, opens up about his early years filled with abuse, gang life, and drug addiction.
His 'prison-style' tattoos, honed during his time in the California State Prison system, eventually made their way onto the streets and earned him the prestigious Tattoo Artist of the Year award in 1980. But Freddy's story doesn't stop at fame and artistry. He shares candidly about the dangers and consequences of gang life and addiction, offering a raw and honest look at the struggles he faced.
Today, Freddy works at The Shamrock Social Club on Sunset Strip alongside his son Isaiah and volunteers as a counselor at Beit T'Shuvah residential treatment center. His memoir, 'Smile Now, Cry Later', co-written with Steve Jones, dives deeper into his life's ups and downs. Freddy's transformation from a life of crime to one of creativity and mentorship is nothing short of inspiring. Tune in to hear how he turned his life around and now helps others do the same.
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