Serj Tankian looked back on how fame changed him and his bandmates in System of a Down. He noticed that many people in the music industry were not always sincere when they praised them.
When S.O.A.D. released their groundbreaking self-titled album in 1998, Tankian was already 30 years old and had experienced considerable life challenges. Despite not fitting the mold of a naive, young rockstar, their journey from their early years as Soil to their breakthrough marked a new phase filled with success and its attendant complexities.
In a recent interview on the “Broken Record” podcast, Tankian recalled initial encounters with industry figures who showered praise that often felt superficial compared to his experiences in other industries like jewelry, shoes, and software. He noted the industry’s tendency for exaggeration and insincere compliments, which he found challenging to navigate.
“I remember the first time someone came at a club and [went], ‘Oh my God, you guys are the most incredible, amazing thing!’ And I just looked at them… In my mind, I’m like, ‘Wow, this industry is quite different!’ There’s a lot of puff; there’s a lot of bullshit, you know? And I’m like, ‘Oh, thank you so much!’ I’ve been in many industries — jewelry industry, shoe industry, software industry and stuff. And I’m like, I know we did something unique, [and] I’m glad you feel that way, but there’s a lot of that bullshit in this industry.
“Industry people would come up and just blow smoke up your ass, and that was a common thing. And I would just look at them and go, like, ‘I’m not buying this.'”
About the impact on their egos as System became one of the hottest rock bands, Tankian acknowledged its inevitability. He admitted that their egos played roles in both their creative successes and the challenges they faced as a band. However, Tankian maintained a grounded perspective, appreciating the genuine support from their fans during shows and personal interactions.
Tankian gave importance to his critical view of the industry’s business aspects while expressing deep gratitude for the authentic connections with their audience. He marveled at the meaningful interactions with fans who attended their shows or events, talking about his appreciation for their continued support.
“I would say it would be impossible for our egos not to have been affected, over the long run, with System’s success and everything that we’ve garnered. I think all our egos played a part in our creation and disaster, all at the same time. So, I won’t deny that, but I always saw through a lot of stuff with this industry. The industry side, not so much [with the] fans. The fans are incredible, I’m incredibly grateful. Every time we play a show, every time we get a response. Even inviting people to the cafe, or book signing… I’m always at all that these people, who I don’t know personally, come to spend a little time with me, and it’s incredible. I’m always taken aback by it, because I don’t take it for granted.”
“But the industry side, I’ve always kind of looked through and been like, ‘Okay, this is a business like any other,’ especially when people started using the word ‘Baby’ [laughs].”
Serj Tankian also wants an amazing new album from System of A Down.