Serj Tankian Vocalist System Of A Down: Between Musician And Activist

Serj Tankian (Instagram @KevinCWinter)

Serj Tankian is widely known not only as a System of a Down vocalist with his high musical abilities, but also his interest in humanitarian social issues.

It is understandable that little Tankian and his family left Lebanon to Los Angeles, United States due to civil war conflicts. Since his children, he has also experienced bullying.

System of a Down music is not the only force in Tankian life. Throughout his career, he has combined activism with art, as explored in his documentary film in 2020, Truth To Power.

Tankian talks outspoken in many ways, especially towards the Armenian Genocide. He is a person who is proud of his legacy, proud of his music, and always lives life in his own way.

I was an activist before becoming an artist. Making a positive impact on the world is part of what this band is doing," Serj Tankian said, citing Rommy.com, Thursday, May 16.

In his newly launched memoir, Tankian wants to make it a philosophical book about the common ground between justice and spirituality. The book can also be considered a way of life, by sharing the life story and the journey of music.

"Everything is written with brutal honesty, but full of love and affection, as well as understanding and responsibility throughout the situation," said Tankian.

Regarding his interest as an activist, Tankian said he could not separate his musical activities from what he believed was the truth.

It's very easy for an artist to keep a lot of audiences and serve many people. It's very difficult to make rational and moral decisions based on what you really believe in, and maybe anger half your base. I see a lot of entertainers who are amazing musicians around me who will never tell the truth to the authorities or anything. They will not talk about any political issues, and that's not a problem. I think making music for music itself is also culturally relevant," said Serj Tankian.

I was an activist before becoming an artist. I can't separate one from the other. The artists I respect, including Frank Zappa, Bob Marley, John Lennon, are those who are honest with themselves and the world around them. For them, honesty and truth are more important than someone who likes them and their music.