Lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band System of a Down, known for his distinctive vocal style and eclectic songwriting. He's also a successful producer and songwriter for other artists.
Daron Malakian is a name synonymous with heavy metal music, best known as the guitarist, songwriter, and second vocalist of the iconic metal band System of a Down. As the lead vocalist, lead guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter of Scars on Broadway, Malakian has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Born on July 18, 1975, in Hollywood, California, to Armenian parents Vartan and Zepur Malakian, Daron was exposed to the world of art and music from a young age. His parents, both artists in their own right, encouraged his creative pursuits, and at the age of 11, Malakian picked up his first guitar.
Initially drawn to heavy metal bands like Kiss, Van Halen, and Iron Maiden, Malakian's musical tastes soon expanded to include thrash metal bands like Slayer and Metallica, as well as groove metal bands like Pantera and Sepultura. The Beatles, particularly John Lennon, also became a significant influence on his songwriting style.
In the mid-1990s, Malakian co-founded System of a Down with his friend Serj Tankian. The band's unique blend of heavy metal, alternative rock, and Armenian folk music quickly gained a loyal following, and their debut album, Malakian's distinctive guitar playing, coupled with his introspective and often provocative lyrics, became a hallmark of the band's sound. System of a Down went on to release four more albums, including (Toxicity) in 2001, (Steal This Album!) in 2002, (Mezmerize) in 2005, and (Hypnotize) in 2005. Malakian's contributions to System of a Down earned him a spot on several "greatest guitarist" lists, including Loudwire's Top 50 Hard Rock & Metal Guitarists of All Time (47th), MusicRadar's The 20 Greatest Metal Guitarists Ever (11th), and Guitar World's The 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time (30th). In 2006, Malakian launched his side project, Scars on Broadway, releasing their debut album, (Scars on Broadway), in 2008. The band's music marked a departure from System of a Down's heavy metal sound, showcasing Malakian's versatility as a songwriter and musician. In addition to his musical accomplishments, Malakian has been involved in various charitable efforts, including supporting the Armenian Genocide recognition movement and advocating for environmental causes. As a guitar virtuoso, songwriter, and philanthropist, Daron Malakian has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His innovative approach to heavy metal and his commitment to social causes have cemented his place as one of the most influential musicians of his generation.Awards and Recognition
Scars on Broadway and Solo Work
Personal Milestones and Philanthropy
Trivia and Fun Facts
58 Years Old
A Lebanese-born Armenian-American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer, known for his powerful, socially conscious lyrics and eclectic blend of rock, metal, and world music. He's the lead vocalist of System of a Down, a Grammy-winning alternative metal band.
62 Years Old
A legendary musician and activist, known for his innovative guitar playing and socially conscious lyrics, as the co-founder of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave.
58 Years Old
The bassist and backing vocalist of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, known for his aggressive playing style and activism through music. He's a key figure in the alternative metal genre.
57 Years Old
Drummer and vocalist for Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, known for his powerful beats and socially conscious lyrics. He's a key figure in the alternative metal genre.
62 Years Old
Lead vocalist of Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer, known for intense, thought-provoking music and enigmatic persona.
57 Years Old
Frontman of the Foo Fighters and former drummer of Nirvana, known for his powerful vocals and guitar riffs that have shaped the sound of alternative rock.
63 Years Old
Lead guitarist and songwriter for the iconic thrash metal band, credited with shaping the sound of heavy metal music and inspiring countless musicians. Known for face-melting solos and iconic riffs.
