Formed in Glendale, California, in 1994, System of a Down began as four friends with a shared love of heavy riffs, experimental sounds, and outspoken lyrics. Their early line-up – Serj Tankian, Daron Malakian, Shavo Odadjian, and drummer Andy Khachaturian – performed under the name Soil, cutting their teeth at small Los Angeles venues like Cafe Club Fais Do-Do.

In 1995 they recorded their first demo tape, followed by two more in 1996 and 1997, steadily building a reputation on the LA club circuit. When Khachaturian suffered a hand injury, he was replaced by John Dolmayan, completing the line-up that remains intact today.

Their first professionally recorded track appeared on Hay Enk (“We’re Armenian”), a 1997 compilation promoting recognition of the Armenian genocide. That same year, after a string of fiery gigs at the Whisky a Go Go and Viper Room, they caught the attention of legendary producer Rick Rubin, who immediately recognised their potential and signed them to his label.

From there, System of a Down’s rise was rapid. Their 1998 debut album introduced a sound that was heavy, unpredictable and politically charged – laying the groundwork for what would become one of the most influential metal bands of their generation.

Across five studio albums, SOAD have never released a bad one. System of a Down (1998), Toxicity (2001), Steal This Album! (2002), Mezmerize (2005) and Hypnotize (2005) all reached the top 10 on the US and Canadian charts – a rare feat for such an uncompromising band.

Their records tackle big themes: war, identity, corruption, and the absurdity of modern life – all delivered with that trademark blend of manic energy and melodic hooks. Tracks like Holy Mountains and Lost in Hollywood show just how far their songwriting can stretch.

After a long hiatus, the group reunited for occasional music festival and released two new songs in 2020 – Protect the Land and Genocidal Humanoidz – marking their first new music in 15 years. Talk of a new album continues to swirl, but as Serj Tankian himself has said, the focus right now is on “celebrating what we’ve built – and playing it louder than ever.”

Two nights. One legendary band.

(Actually, two legendary bands. Plus Acid Bath)

System of a Down’s Souls Tour 2026 lands in London on 13 and 15 July, joined by Queens of the Stone Age for what promises to be a monumental double-header of hard-rock excellence.

Fans can expect a career-spanning setlist – from the chaotic brilliance of Prison Song to the soaring power of Aerials, Toxicity and Chop Suey! – plus a few surprises thrown in for good measure. Their live performances are famous for their intensity: crushing riffs, political passion, and a crowd that sings every word as if it’s gospel.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium’s state-of-the-art stage setup and panoramic views make it the ideal venue for a show of this scale. Whether you’re on the pitch or seated high up under the roof, the atmosphere will be electric.