Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

System Of A Down's Fierce Rise Amid Hostility

1/22/2025

50 7

Summary

Story summary

In 1998, System Of A Down battled fierce hostility while opening for Slayer, with frontman Serj Tankian recalling confrontations, including a shocking moment of Nazi salutes from the crowd. Yet, their distinctive sound ultimately broke through the resistance, propelling them to stardom and solidifying their status as a major metal force by 2001.

1 of 1

Story summary

In 1998, System Of A Down battled fierce hostility while opening for Slayer, with frontman Serj Tankian recalling confrontations, including a shocking moment of Nazi salutes from the crowd. Yet, their distinctive sound ultimately broke through the resistance, propelling them to stardom and solidifying their status as a major metal force by 2001.