Daron Malakian is the guitarist, co-vocalist, and primary songwriter of System of a Down — one of the most successful and politically outspoken rock bands of the 21st century, whose music has raised awareness of the Armenian Genocide to millions worldwide.
Daron Vartan Malakian was born on July 18, 1975, in Hollywood, California, to Armenian American parents. He grew up in the San Fernando Valley, surrounded by a large Armenian community, and developed a love of music from childhood. He formed System of a Down with Serj Tankian, Shavo Odadjian, and John Dolmayan in Glendale, California in 1994.
Malakian is the primary songwriter of System of a Down — writing the majority of the band's music and many of its most iconic songs. His guitar style combines aggressive metal riffing with Armenian folk music influences, unusual time signatures, and melodic passages that give SOAD its distinctive sound. He also co-sings with Tankian on many tracks, often trading lead vocal duties.
System of a Down's Armenian identity is inseparable from their music and their activism. Songs like "P.L.U.C.K." (Politically Lying, Unholy, Cowardly Killers) and "Holy Mountains" directly reference the Armenian Genocide. The band has consistently advocated for international recognition of the Genocide, and their platform — reaching tens of millions of listeners worldwide — has made them one of the most powerful voices for Armenian Genocide awareness in popular culture.
System of a Down brought Armenian Genocide awareness to millions. Discover more Armenian heritage.
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