Serj Tankian life and biography

Serj Tankian: A Harmonious Blend of Music, Identity, and Advocacy

Serj Tankian, a dynamic figure in the realm of music, activism, and artistic expression, is a true embodiment of cultural diversity. Born as an Armenian immigrant in Lebanon and then rooted in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Tankian has woven his unique heritage and global perspective into his creative endeavors. With a multifaceted career spanning singing, songwriting, composing, and activism, he has left an indelible mark on the world stage.

At the forefront of Tankian's musical journey is his role as the lead singer and songwriter of the Grammy Award-winning rock band System of a Down. Renowned for their innovative sound and thought-provoking lyrics, the band has garnered a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Tankian's gritty yet versatile vocal range adds a distinct texture to their music, capturing a spectrum of emotions.

Beyond his contributions to System of a Down, Tankian's solo ventures have showcased his artistic evolution. He is the mastermind behind two critically acclaimed solo albums: "Imperfect Harmonies" and "Elect the Dead." Produced at his home studio in Los Angeles, these albums are a testament to Tankian's musical prowess and his willingness to experiment across genres. From the raw energy of rock to the soul-stirring motifs of Armenian music, his solo work is a testament to his boundary-pushing creativity.

Serj Tankian's life story is one of transcending boundaries and defying conventions. At the age of five, he embarked on a journey from Lebanon to Los Angeles, where he would later explore his passion for music. While pursuing higher education in marketing after high school, Tankian was also honing his musical skills. Four years of singing lessons and an early introduction to guitar playing paved the way for his future as a celebrated musician.

The genesis of Tankian's musical prominence traces back to the formation of his band Soil, later rebranded as System of a Down. Alongside fellow visionary Daron Malakian, Tankian crafted a distinctive sound that blended elements of rock, metal, and cultural motifs. Their music became a platform for voicing thought-provoking ideas and societal critiques.

However, Tankian's impact extends beyond the stage. He is the founder of Serjical Strike Records, a sub-division of Columbia Records, which serves as a launchpad for independent and underrepresented musicians. This endeavor reflects his commitment to nurturing emerging talent and promoting diverse voices that often remain unheard in the mainstream.

Tankian's collaborations and guest appearances reflect his embrace of artistic collaboration. He lent his distinctive voice to songs by Dog Fashion Disco, Deftones, and Buckethead, revealing his versatility across different musical landscapes. Notably, he produced Buckethead's album "Enter The Chicken" and contributed vocals to several tracks, forging connections that transcend musical boundaries.

In a testament to his innovative spirit, Tankian embarked on the Serart project, a collaboration with Armenian musician Arto Tunçboyaçiyan. This venture underscored his ability to merge his heritage with contemporary musical expressions, further enriching his oeuvre.

Serj Tankian's journey stands as a testament to the power of artistic expression and activism intertwined. He is not merely a singer or a songwriter; he is a cultural ambassador, a pioneer of change, and a force that reshapes the boundaries of music and society. Through his artistry and activism, Tankian's impact reverberates far beyond the notes and lyrics, inspiring generations to embrace their unique voices and catalyze transformation.

Albums released by Serj Tankian:

Solo
Elect the Dead (2007)
Imperfect Harmonies (2010)
Harakiri (2012)
Orca (TBA)
Jazz-Iz-Christ (TBA)

With System of a Down
System of a Down (1998)
Toxicity (2001)
Steal This Album! (2002)
Mezmerize (2005)
Hypnotize (2005)

With Serart
Serart (2003)


"Harakiri" 2012 single:

Read more