System Of A Down are undoubtedly one of the most unconventional rock/metal bands to ever find serious, long-lasting commercial success. Emerging in 1998 with their self-titled debut album, the band’s experimental, turn-on-a-dime approach to songwriting will leave any listener dizzy. Yet, the Armenian-American act managed to insert political discourse, called out the Iraq War, and decry abuse by religious figures in one fell swoop.
While the band was not an overnight success, 2001’s Toxicity cemented them as one of the biggest acts in the scene. Led by some of their biggest singles like “Chop Suey!”, the title track, and even album opener “Prison Song”, their unconventional song structures nonetheless won over millions of fans, translating into huge album sales and sold-out tours.
Now, the band’s first two records have reached even further success. Their 1998 self-titled debut album is now certified 2X Platinum by the RIAA, and Toxicity is 6X – pretty crazy for a band that had to grind to get where they are now.
