The Lebanese American musician, singer, songwriter, and activist Serj Tankian celebrates 57 today
As the lead vocalist and lyricist for the Grammy-winning metal band System of a Down and as a solo artist, Tankian has become an influential figure in both the music industry and the global fight for social justice
The Lebanese American musician, singer, songwriter, and activist Serj Tankian celebrates 57 today
The Lebanese-American musician, singer, songwriter, and activist Serj Tankian was born on August 21, 1967, in Beirut, Lebanon. Tankian was born to Armenian parents in Beirut, and his family moved to Los Angeles, California, when he was seven years old, fleeing the Lebanese Civil War. Growing up in the diverse cultural landscape of Los Angeles, Tankian was exposed to various musical influences and developed a deep appreciation for his Armenian heritage. He attended California State University, Northridge, where he studied marketing and music.
In the early 1990s, Tankian co-founded System of a Down with guitarist Daron Malakian, bassist Shavo Odadjian, and drummer John Dolmayan. The band quickly gained a following in the underground metal scene with their unique blend of heavy metal, punk rock, and Armenian folk music, combined with lyrics that often addressed political and social issues. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1998, was a critical success, introducing the world to their distinctive sound and Tankian’s dynamic vocal style.
System of a Down’s breakthrough came with the release of their second album, Toxicity (2001), which included hit singles like “Chop Suey!,” “Toxicity,” and “Aerials.” The album topped the charts and solidified the band’s place in the mainstream, with Tankian’s voice and lyrics at the forefront. Toxicity was followed by Steal This Album! (2002), Mezmerize (2005), and Hypnotize (2005), all of which were commercially successful and critically acclaimed. Tankian’s lyrics often touch on themes of war, human rights, environmental issues, and the Armenian Genocide, reflecting his commitment to activism and social justice. Beyond his work with System of a Down, Tankian has pursued a successful solo career, releasing several albums that explore a wide range of musical styles, including rock, electronic, and orchestral compositions. His solo debut, Elect the Dead (2007), was well-received, showcasing his versatility as a musician and his continued commitment to addressing global issues through his art.
In addition to his music career, Tankian is a vocal activist and philanthropist. He co-founded the nonprofit organization Axis of Justice with Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello, aiming to bring together musicians, fans, and activists to fight for social justice. Tankian is also an advocate for recognition of the Armenian Genocide and has used his platform to raise awareness about this and other human rights issues.
Serj Tankian is married to Angela Madatyan, an Armenian-American artist and designer. The couple married in 2012 and has a son named Rumi, born in 2014. Tankian’s family life and his Armenian heritage continue to be significant influences in his music and activism.
System of a Down’s last album, “Hypnotize,” was released in 2005, and they are one of the bands whose fans most anxiously wait for a new studio album. The band has been gone back and forward between hiatus, reunions and one-time concerts. In 2024 they played two live concerts, renewing the hope for new music to be released.
Look back at the 2001 music video “Toxicity” by System of a Down
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