Before becoming one of the most influential metal bands of the 2000s, System of a Down (SOAD) carved out a dedicated underground following in Los Angeles. Their journey from playing small club gigs to securing a major record deal with Rick Rubin’s American Recordings in 1997 was fueled by their unique sound, politically charged lyrics, and relentless work ethic.
The Early Years: Soil and the Formation of SOAD
In the early 1990s, Serj Tankian and Daron Malakian played together in a band called Soil. The duo quickly realized their creative chemistry and, after Soil disbanded, decided to form a new group. They recruited bassist Shavo Odadjian and drummer Andy Khachaturian, solidifying what would become System of a Down. The band’s name was inspired by a poem Malakian wrote called “Victims of a Down,” which was later shortened to System of a Down.
Establishing Themselves in the L.A. Scene
SOAD’s rise began in the underground metal scene of Los Angeles, where they frequently performed at venues like the Whisky a Go Go and The Roxy Theatre. Their shows were high-energy, intense, and unpredictable, quickly earning them a reputation as a must-see act. Unlike many other metal bands at the time, SOAD combined Armenian folk influences with aggressive metal riffs and politically charged lyrics, setting them apart from their peers.
The Power of DIY and Demo Tapes
Determined to make an impact, SOAD recorded several demo tapes between 1995 and 1997. These self-released demos showcased early versions of songs that would later become fan favorites. The band’s relentless promotion and distribution of their demos helped them gain traction within the underground music community, and word of their explosive performances began to spread.
Catching the Attention of Rick Rubin
By 1997, SOAD’s buzz had reached legendary producer Rick Rubin, who saw immense potential in their music. Rubin signed them to his label, American Recordings, leading to the release of their self-titled debut album in 1998. From there, the band quickly ascended to mainstream success, but their underground roots and dedication to their craft laid the foundation for their future dominance in the metal scene.
System of a Down’s early years serve as a testament to the power of perseverance, originality, and the strength of an underground movement in shaping music history.
Emmanuel