Steve Hinojosa aka ‘Smokey’, has been playing music since the age of 5. Starting in the world of classical piano, he grew up playing in National Federation and Junior Bach festivals in Southern California. After developing a foundation in music theory and technicality on the keys, he expanded his musical interests into guitar with the help of his late uncle Daniel with a swap meet special acoustic. It was from then that the love of playing the guitbox bloomed. In high school Smokey played guitar, keys and supporting vocals with some school mates in their band “Redemption”.
Around that same time, he got his first job working at a musical instrument distribution company in Ventura, ca. It was here that he worked in multiple positions fulfilling orders, shipping, and ultimately a sales representative.
Having access to all sorts of musical instruments and accessories, Smokey expanded his craft to bass, ukulele, harmonica, and drums.
Through the following years, he played his part in numerous bands of ranging genres including:
The Vagrants, Tommy Marsh & Bad Dog, Soulfiyah, Jamonsoul, The Kronik Blues Band, Crooked Eye Tommy, 50 Sticks of Dynomite, Hardwater, Purple Stain: A Tribute to The Red Hot Chili Peppers, and many more.
Ultimately Smokey met Bill Macpherson, an accomplished professor and musician, at a local jam session and the two joined forces to found Smokey & Friends in 2013. Since then, S&F has been playing throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles county providing a refreshing mix of blues, rock, reggae and soul with their own twist of musicality. Keep an eye out for them at a venue near you, or contact them to play for your special celebration!