Meet Chris Suicide of Old Tradition Tattoo in Hollywood

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Suicide.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Chris. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I came from Mexico City to Los Angeles to make all my dreams come true. I came to LA 17 years ago and one of my dreams was to be in a band (to be the vocalist), I’ve played music since I was 11 years old. I started auditioning and after 6 months of trying out for different bands I was picked to be vocalist in a band. I had the opportunity to write lyrics and part of the music. In 2004 we got signed to a German Record Label and we toured all over US and Europe. I always thought that music was related with the tattoo industry and I always had that vision. After a long tours and a break from the music, in 2008 I started my apprenticeship. The American Traditional tattoo style has always caught my eye. I come from Mexican roots and I try to incorporate that into my tattoos creating my own style. My apprenticeship was not easy, it’s not how everyone thinks it is, it’s nothing like they portray on TV. hahahaha! With my apprenticeship, I learned to value the tattoo culture, the struggle to want to be a tattoo artist but most importantly the respect to this art. I finally finished my apprenticeship in 2010 after having experience in the field I had the opportunity to open up my own tattoo shop in Hollywood, Old Tradition Tattoo. Now I am able to do both of my passions, music and tattoos!

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
These careers have not been easy, especially coming from another country, having to learn a new language has been difficult. While you are in the apprenticeship you don’t make any money but my push to keep going and not giving up was when I became a father. I worked hard so my family could have what they needed. I think in these careers it’s always a learning process.

Please tell us about Old Tradition Tattoo.
My tattoo shop is Old Tradition Tattoo, it is the only shop on Hollywood Blvd that does custom work. It invites you to bring your own ideas and gives us the freedom to do an original piece. I think the name says it all, and the shop is uniquely decorated full of art and it’s very welcoming. We are 5 tattoo artist and every single artist has their own style. We specialize in all types of tattooing. I, Chris Suicide, specialize in American Traditional. I am proud to be the owner, especially coming from a different country, it is one of my dreams come true.

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My most happy childhood memories have been being around my family and playing in my first concert, playing in front of an audience and the first time I remember Santa Claus coming.

Contact Info:

• Address: Old Tradition Tattoo (Chris Suicide)
  6601 Hollywood Blvd
  Los Angeles, CA 90028
• Website: oldtraditiontattoo.com
• Phone: (323) 333-5394
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/oldtraditiontattoo
• Facebook: facebook.com/oldtraditiontattoo
• Twitter: @oldtraditionta2
• Yelp: Old Tradition Tattoo