Biography & Career Of Serj Tankian

Forum 6 hours ago

Biography & Career Of Serj Tankian

Serj Tankian is an Armenian-American singer, songwriter, musician, producer, activist, and composer who is widely recognized as the lead vocalist, keyboardist, and primary lyricist of the influential rock band System of a Down.

Formed in 1994, System of a Down has captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of heavy metal, Armenian folk music, and political commentary.

As the driving force behind the band’s signature sound and thought-provoking lyrics, Tankian has established himself as a powerful and uncompromising voice in the music industry.

Beyond his work with the band, Tankian founded his record label Serjical Strike Records, which serves as a platform for his diverse artistic endeavors.

Early Life And Education

Serj Tankian, a renowned musician and songwriter, was born on August 21, 1967, in Beirut, Lebanon. He was born to his parents, Khatchadour Tankian and Alice Tankian, and has a brother named Sevag.

Tankian attended the bilingual Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School and was later accepted into California State University, Northridge, where he graduated with a marketing degree in 1989.

Serj Tankian is of Armenian descent. He was born in Beirut, Lebanon, to Armenian parents, and his family later immigrated to the United States. However, his specific religious beliefs are unknown.

Career

Serj Tankian‘s remarkable journey in the music industry has been marked by his unwavering dedication to artistic exploration and social activism. As the frontman of the critically acclaimed band System of a Down, Tankian‘s career took off with the group’s heavy, experimental sound that often incorporated elements of Armenian folk music and political commentary.

System of a Down’s albums, such as the widely acclaimed “Toxicity” and “Mezmerize,” have been praised for their commercial success and critical acclaim. The band’s unique blend of heavy metal, progressive rock, and political commentary has solidified their place as one of the most influential acts in the genre.

Beyond his success with System of a Down, Tankian has also pursued a distinguished solo career, releasing various albums showcasing his musical versatility.

From the hard-hitting metal and rock sounds of “Elect the Dead” to the orchestral compositions and electronic elements of “Imperfect Harmonies,” Tankian has demonstrated his ability to navigate various musical styles and genres seamlessly.

The band’s achievements have been recognized with four Grammy Award nominations, and their song “B.Y.O.B.” won the Best Hard Rock Performance of 2006. In 2006, the band announced they were going on hiatus, but Tankian has continued to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

Tankian’s creative pursuits extend beyond music. He has explored avenues such as film production, visual arts, and video game soundtracks. His work often reflects his deep-rooted Armenian heritage and unwavering commitment to social justice, making him a respected and influential figure in the broader cultural landscape.

Serj Tankian‘s career is a testament to his artistic vision, versatility, and dedication to using his platform for meaningful social and political commentary. His contributions to the world of music, activism, and beyond have solidified his legacy as a true icon in the industry.

Awards and Nominations

Serj Tankian, primarily known as the lead singer and keyboardist of the metal band System of a Down, has received numerous accolades throughout his career, both as a solo artist and with his band.

  System of a Down Awards and Nominations

Grammy Awards:

•    Won Best Hard Rock Performance (2006) for “B.Y.O.B.”

•   Nominated: Best Hard Rock Performance (2005) for “Toxicity”

American Music Awards:

•    Nominated: Favorite Alternative Artist (2005)

  Solo Awards and Nominations

• Armenian Prime Minister’s Medal:** Awarded for his contribution to the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and the advancement of music (2011)

• Various Film and Television Awards: Tankian has received nominations for his work as a composer for documentaries and films.

Personal Life

Serj Tankian, the lead vocalist of System of a Down, has been married to his long-time girlfriend, Angela Madatyan, since June 9, 2012.

They have one son, Rumi Tankian Madatyan, born on October 24, 2014. The family lives intermittently between Warkworth, New Zealand, and Los Angeles.

Discography

• With the System of a Down

• System of a Down (1998)

• Toxicity (2001)

• Steal This Album! (2002)

• Mezmerize (2005)

• Hypnotize (2005)

Solo

• Elect the Dead (2007)

• Imperfect Harmonies (2010)

• Harakiri (2012)

• Orca Symphony No. 1 (2013)

• Cin+¬matique Series: Illuminate (2021)

• Cin+¬matique Series: Violent Violins (2021)

• Elasticity (2021)

• Foundations (2024)

Collaboration albums

• Serart (2003) (with Arto Tun+ºboyac-¦yan)

• Enter the Chicken (2005) (with Buckethead)

• Fuktronic (2020) (with Jimmy Urine)

Net Worth

Serj Tankian‘s net Worth is estimated to be $20 million. He is a prominent figure in the music industry, known as the lead vocalist and keyboardist of the influential rock band System of a Down.

His success as a musician, songwriter, and record producer has contributed significantly to his wealth.