Written by Chris Rockwell
Photography by Beiron Andersson

“L.A. Woman” was playing in my head as I stood on Hollywood Blvd staring at some forgotten names on the walk of fame. I was day trippin’, hanging out with the ghost of Jim Morrison on Sunset Strip in some timeless era of rock gods and groupies. My mom grew up as a surfer girl from Santa Monica and saw The Doors live at the legendary “Whiskey a Go Go” in 1968…before hitch hiking up to San Francisco for the “Summer of Love” concert in Golden Gate Park.

I just read the biography on Jim Morrison and The Doors and discovered that my mom went to high school with The Doors drummer John Densmore and guitarist Robbie Krieger. And I just found this out?!?! I guess growing up with all those celebrities it never dawned on my mom that her tales of the sixties music scene in L.A. is legendary folklore she is required to pass down to the next generation! At any rate, I think it’s easy to understand my affinity for the classic L.A. music, film and fashion scene.

Shannon Pagel represents my vision of a classic California girl. She is a healthy blend of NorCal beach girl and SoCal starlet. King Duce photographer Beiron Andersson discovered her while she was a student at Chico State. Raised in northern California, Shannon recently graduated and moved to L.A. to pursue law school, good times, and more surfing…

“I really enjoy staying active and doing different sports. I was a gymnast for a long time and then I was a diver (like springboard etc). Currently I snowboard, play tennis, golf, and wakeboard when I can. I’ve only surfed a couple times but now that I live by the beach I want to get better. I’m planning on applying to law school in the fall and I want to try and focus on international law so that I can travel. What music I listen to depends completely on the mood I’m in or the vibe I want. Other than that, I like music that I can sing along to, even though I’m usually a little off key. I’m a little bit of a dare devil and I love trying new things. I’ve been skydiving already, and I’m trying to convince all my roommates to go with me. But when I want to relax, I really like sketching or painting and spending time with my friends.”

We met up for a free flow photo shoot that Beiron orchestrated from the hotel bedroom; into to the backseat of a Mercedes; along the train tracks in east L.A… and dealing with the cops at nearly every stop. But a few King Duce stickers made for cheap payoff to finish our shoot without getting a ticket. Beiron had his Russian assistant and model friend Tatiana helping out on make-up and lighting. She and Shannon became quick friends, singing Ke$ha songs and giggling at Beiron as he ran around like Bear Grilz searching for the perfect light and angle.

After a long day of filming we went to dinner at Rush in Culver City…amazing food and atmosphere. Check it out if you’re in the neighborhood (their ribs and sweet potato fries are world class!) After dessert and a slow walk back to our hotel, Tatiana and Shannon were still laughing at their inside jokes at the men in the crew, as they continued to walk and sing…out loud!

Between giggles Shannon smiled and said, “The whole experience has been unbelievable for me. Shooting with Beiron is fun and dynamic, and he always keeps me on my toes. He introduced me to King Duce and I felt immediately welcomed into the “family”. I feel so lucky to be involved with King Duce and I’m so excited to see what the future holds.

Shannon’s sense of humor and willingness to go with the flow made her fun to be around. We’ll have to do it again soon. Stay tuned for more of our new King Duce Girl…

Duce Up!!

Written by Chris Rockwell
Photography by Beiron Andersson

If you think I’m being dramatic, then you didn’t watch the Peraza brothers being showcased on “New Pollution” on Fuel TV. Believe me when I say these King Duce athletes are a dynasty in the making. They’re sending shock waves throughout the BMX world. And the oldest Peraza boy is not even twenty years old. We met up with Kevin Peraza and his family in Fresno over Memorial weekend for the King of Cali competition. After spending a couple days filming and relaxing over dinners, I can say that I don’t know if I’ve met a better family. The Peraza’s symbolize what the King Duce culture is all about.

(A King Duce Family Tradition – Victor Peraza (Dad), Kevin Peraza, Lil Victor Peraza, Rockwell and Ty Calais)

It begins with the charismatic father, Victor Peraza, a former pro BMX rider originating from Hermosillo, Mexico and residing in Tucson, Arizona. Aside from being a pro rider, he’s also a certified metal head, made apparent by the Iron Maiden tattoos circling his upper right arm. I could easily imagine hanging out with Victor at a rock concert, or riding quads in the sand dunes on vacation. He’s fun to be around. And his positive attitude and smile are infectious. But, beyond the fun times, Victor is a solid father figure that leads by example. His boys have clearly adopted their dad’s strong work ethic and adventurous personality. And his wife Maria is a perfect match of cool and old school mom, keeping her boys grounded, while promoting their individuality.

(David Peraza in his hometown of Tucson, Arizona – photo by Kevin Peraza)

David Peraza is the big brother. I relate to him because of this fact. He paved the way by becoming a great rider in his own right. But he’s constantly talking up his little brothers and pushing them to the forefront. I was bummed David was missing during the King of Cali competition. But it was for good reason. He was in Ecuador representing Mexico in the Panamericano competition. Unfortunately he broke his wrist during the race. But he hit me with a text message to assure me that all was good and he was ready for more.

(Kevin Peraza showing off his farmer tan at the King of Cali Competition in Fresno)

Kevin Peraza is the rock star at fifteen years old. He has a look and riding style that is effortlessly cool. Kevin could easily be an actor or the lead singer of a rock band. But he’d rather be flying through the air, defying gravity like a fighter jet. I noticed that when Kevin showed up to the event he was clearly the crowd favorite. It’s easy to see why. Despite his overflowing gifts, he’s genuinely grounded by his family values and realizes that he has a long way to go to become one of the legends of his sport. And that’s why I think he’s special.

(Little Victor Peraza doing his superman rendition at 9 Years old)

Then there’s little Victor Peraza. This kid has no idea that he’s nine years old! He rolls into the bike park like the big dog, calling out teenage riders using Spanglish slang for comical effect. His innocent swagger makes all the older riders embrace him like he’s part of the crew. And he’s probably the best nine year old BMX rider in the world, pulling back flips and other moves that seem unthinkable when you see his little smiling face. Mark my words, Little Victor will be one of the biggest BMX riders in the world, IF he feels like it. Or he might end up on a Telemundo Soap Opera as the leading man.

(The Peraza Family – from left Kevin, Eduardo, Maria, Lil Victor, Big Victor and David – photo taken by friend)

Eduardo is the youngest Peraza brother at seven years old. He didn’t make the trip, opting to stay back in Tucson with his grandparents. I hear he’s not sure about joining the family business, his dad says he’s more interested in the business side of sports (Don’t be surprised if Eduardo is interning with me one of these days!). I can’t say enough good things about the Peraza family and the impact they’ve made. The world would be a better place if more people were like them. I know they’re presence has made King Duce a better place. Stay tuned for more…
Duce Up!!