The guitarist and songwriter Tom Morello turns 60 today
Morello co-founded the bands Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave scoring several hits with both bands including “Killing in the Name” and “Like a Stone”
The guitarist and songwriter Tom Morello turns 60 today
Known for his innovative guitar techniques and his commitment to social justice, Tom Morello was born on May 30, 1964, in Harlem, New York City, USA. Morello was raised in Libertyville, Illinois, where he developed an interest in music at an early age. After graduating from Harvard University with a degree in Social Studies, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music. Morello initially played in various bands, including Electric Sheep, which featured future Tool guitarist Adam Jones.
In 1991, Morello formed Rage Against the Machine with vocalist Zack de la Rocha, bassist Tim Commerford, and drummer Brad Wilk. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1992 and featuring the hits “Killing in the Name” and “Bullet in the Head”, was a critical and commercial success, featuring politically charged lyrics and Morello’s groundbreaking guitar work.
Rage Against The Machine also released the albums “Evil Empire” (1996) that includes the hit “Bulls on Parade,” “The Battle of Los Angeles” (1999) and “Renegades” (2000) an album of cover songs.
Morello’s unique style, characterized by unconventional techniques and effects, helped redefine the role of the guitar in rock music. Rage Against the Machine became known for their powerful live performances and their advocacy for social and political causes.
After Rage Against the Machine disbanded in 2000, Morello formed Audioslave with former Soundgarden members Chris Cornell, Tim Commerford, and Brad Wilk. Audioslave released three successful albums, blending elements of rock, grunge, and funk. The band released the memorable albums “Audioslave” (2002) featuring “Cochise” and “Like a Stone,” “Out of Exile” (2005) and “Revelations” (2006). In addition to his work with Audioslave, Morello pursued solo projects under the moniker The Nightwatchman, focusing on folk music with politically charged lyrics. Albums like “One Man Revolution” (2007) and “World Wide Rebel Songs” (2011) showcased his versatility as a musician and lyricist.
Tom Morello continues to be an active and influential figure in music. He rejoined Rage Against the Machine for reunion tours and also became a member of Prophets of Rage, a supergroup featuring members of Public Enemy and Cypress Hill. Morello’s recent work includes solo albums like “The Atlas Underground” (2018) and “The Atlas Underground Fire” (2021), which blend rock, electronic, and hip-hop elements.
Morello is also a sought-after collaborator, working with artists across genres, from Bruce Springsteen to Knife Party. His activism remains central to his career, often using his platform to advocate for social justice and human rights and he co-founded Axis of Justice, an organization aimed at bringing together musicians, fans, and grassroots political organizations to fight for social justice.
Look back at the music video for Rage Against the Machine’s signature song “Killing in the Name” 1992
Also watch the music video for “Like a Stone” by Audioslave, 2002
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