Who is the Lead Singer of System of a Down?

Serj Tankian, an American-Armenian musician and songwriter, is best known as the founder, lead vocalist, and primary lyricist of the Grammy award-winning metal band System of a Down. Born on August 21, 1967, in Beirut, Lebanon, Tankian has made significant contributions to the music industry throughout his career.

Early Life and Career

Tankian was born in Beirut and later moved to the United States with his family, settling in Los Angeles. He attended the Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, where he crossed paths with his future System of a Down bandmates, Daron Malakian and Shavo Odadjian. Tankian pursued his education at California State University, Northridge, graduating with a marketing degree in 1989.

Tankian’s musical journey began during his sophomore year of college when he started playing instruments, particularly the keyboard, and writing songs. He initially struggled to find his place in the music industry but eventually discovered his passion and realized that music was his future.

System of a Down

In 1994, Tankian founded System of a Down, a groundbreaking metal band known for their unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics. As the lead vocalist and primary lyricist, Tankian played a crucial role in shaping the band’s identity and success.

System of a Down released several critically acclaimed albums, including their self-titled debut album “System of a Down,” followed by “Toxicity,” “Steal This Album!,” “Mezmerize,” and “Hypnotize.” These albums showcased the band’s ability to blend various genres, incorporating elements of alternative metal, nu metal, heavy metal, hard rock, and progressive rock.

Solo Career and Collaborations

In addition to his work with System of a Down, Serj Tankian has also pursued a successful solo career. He has released five solo albums: “Elect the Dead,” “Imperfect Harmonies,” “Harakiri,” “Orca,” “Jazz-Iz-Christ,” and “Elasticity.” These albums showcase his versatility as a musician and his ability to experiment with different musical styles.

Tankian has collaborated with various artists and musicians, demonstrating his willingness to explore new creative avenues. Notable collaborations include projects with rapper Tech N9ne and folk singer Arto Tunçboyacıyan.

Achievements and Activism

Tankian’s unique vocal delivery and wide vocal range have earned him recognition as one of the best vocalists in heavy metal. He was ranked No. 26 on the Hit Parader list of “Top 100 Heavy Metal Vocalists.” A study conducted by VVN Music found that Tankian possesses a high and diverse vocal range of 4.2 octaves.

Outside of his music career, Tankian is an active political activist. He co-founded the non-profit organization Axis of Justice, which aims to promote social justice and political activism through music. Tankian has been recognized for his contributions to the recognition of the Armenian genocide and the advancement of music, receiving the Armenian Prime Minister’s Medal for his achievements.

Overall, Serj Tankian’s role as the lead singer of System of a Down and his diverse solo career have solidified his status as a prominent figure in the music industry. His unique vocal style, activism, and passion for creating thought-provoking music continue to inspire and resonate with fans worldwide.

Sources

1. Source: Wikipedia – Serj Tankian
2. Source: Serj Tankian Official Website – About
3. Source: Google Search – Serj Tankian

FAQs

Who is the lead singer of System of a Down?

The lead singer of System of a Down is Serj Tankian. He is also the founder, lead vocalist, and primary lyricist of the band.

When was Serj Tankian born?

Serj Tankian was born on August 21, 1967, in Beirut, Lebanon.

How many albums has System of a Down released?

System of a Down has released five albums. These include “System of a Down,” “Toxicity,” “Steal This Album!,” “Mezmerize,” and “Hypnotize.”

How many solo albums has Serj Tankian released?

Serj Tankian has released five solo albums. These include “Elect the Dead,” “Imperfect Harmonies,” “Harakiri,” “Orca,” “Jazz-Iz-Christ,” and “Elasticity.”

What is Serj Tankian known for?

Serj Tankian is known for his distinctive vocal delivery and wide vocal range, which have earned him praise as one of the best vocalists in heavy metal.

Has Serj Tankian collaborated with other musicians?

Yes, Serj Tankian has collaborated with various artists and musicians. Some notable collaborations include projects with rapper Tech N9ne and folk singer Arto Tunçboyacıyan.

Is Serj Tankian involved in activism?

Yes, Serj Tankian is an activist and co-founded the non-profit political activism organization Axis of Justice. He has been actively involved in promoting social justice and political activism through his music.

Has Serj Tankian received any awards for his contributions?

Yes, Serj Tankian has received recognition for his contributions to the recognition of the Armenian genocide and the advancement of music. He has been awarded the Armenian Prime Minister’s Medal for his achievements.