B.Y.OB stands for Bring Your Own Bombs, it came out during the war. They often have politically charged lyrics. I'd suggest doing 'Aerials' for a great softer song, it also has a good official video.
Daron is a good vocalist too. He screams, yes, but also do harmonies and melodic parts. Check out Lonely Day for Darons lead vocals. Also his solo project Scars on Broadway. Serj is of course the focal point vocally and his solo stuff is great too. I love the song Harakiri. Amazing. Serj also did a show with a symphony orchestra and just his vocals.
Serj Tankian's solo music is definetly worth a listen as he is much more experimental with his voice. The single Harakiri is a good starting point. If you wanted to go deeper down the System of a down rabbit hole Spiders is a beautiful song.
Honestly serj promoted his commercial band or even only him self that's why he got more attention because of commercial and he did a great job.. and views speak it self!! On the other hand daron became more underground.. but every one surprise when he listens to s.o.b and start to ask why even no one have heard about them.. well he is main focus is to make a great music and to enjoy it with his only true fans not to be commercial,, this is why daron is so honest cuz he is not looking for fame and want to be Elvis of her s generation only want to have a real fans
At the time this was definitely a protest of the Iraq War. The most direct reference is the blowing up the desert. The guitarist does a lot of singing, either harmonizing on top of Serj, or sometimes even carrying the song. My impression is that Serj was the main writer behind the Toxicity album, but the guitarist was the main writer for the Hypnotize/Mesmerize albums from which this comes.
Thankyou, I couldn't figure out what that flag represented. Seeing it throughout this video, but I knew it had significance. Also, in the beginning of the video, there was a solid red flag draped over a rail, i could only guess that it represented bloodshed as the red light reflecting on the band would suggest too. @@ct5625
Yes, his solo work is also really great. Have you heard him singing acapella with his father? An armenian folk song "Bari Arakeel": ruclips.net/video/eOkRCR40sqU/видео.html
I love Daron’s voice, combined with Serj’s is just amazing. Been a fan since the early 00’s, their music is so multifaceted and spans over many genres. They do it all and they do it perfectly. From metal, rock, to funk and cultural influences. Their albums are just filled with gems which is rare. Most albums contain a couple of good songs but not all. Spiders, Toxicity, Chop Suey, Revenga, Radio/video, Old School Hollywood, Lost In Hollywood, Dreaming, Holy Mountains etc. Do Questions! next, the vocals in that song are amazing.
This is the only band, that i like 100% of all their songs. Can't tell this for anybody else. Even Serj and Daron separate albums have very, very good and unique songs.
Definitely recommend Spiders, Question!, Aerials, Toxicity, and Holy Mountains for songs that really highlight how amazing Serj's voice is (and how well it meshes with Daron's). I really hope you feature more of their music!
@@mcullennz I dont know if I could choose my favorite SOAD song, I have heard them all at least 1000 times including demos and b-sides growing up... I always loved Steal this Album! when I was younger but I really don't know if I could choose a favorite song
I love how "why don't presidents fight the wars? why do they always send the poor?" aren't asked, but sound more like accusations, to remind us that no matter what delusions we individually choose to use to cope with existence, we are still collectively and individually responsible as participants in society for what our leaders do. They don't just send us out, we let them, go for them, despite them having no real skin in the game because the fight won't hit their doorsteps til they're too old to care anyway and have already enjoyed the power of standing on our backs. Generals used to ride the front lines and lead the charges, now they have luxury bunkers and can't tie their own shoes. Revolution is a responsibility
"Politicians hide themselves away They only started the war Why should they go out to fight? They leave that role to the poor" Black Sabbath - War Pigs - released in 1970, it is the opening track from the band's second studio album Paranoid (1970). Both songs remain highly relevant today across the world
Love this, the whole song is almost accusational and telling YOU to wake up, the first lyric is "you" straight up, then the chorus bit sounding all nicey but with the darker second part "dancing in the desert, blowing up the sunshine" and then at the end it gets cut off with those accusations, like its saying no, stop listening to the propaganda right now! It's such a layered and incredibly created piece of music, in many ways it's very tongue in cheek and straightforward in its message but simultaneously extremely nuanced
SOAD is heavy metal with a twist! Their music changes radically within songs ( in wonderful ways) and the message is always deep. Great band, great singer great stuff
7:02 is one of the best & most succint explanations of the song/video i've heard, which is absolutely wild when at the start of the video i was like "this guy's not gonna get it"
7:00 - WELL PUT! You get it, the lyrics are tremendously meaningful and the delivery is spot-on. As it goes, "there's a method to the madness". Please do more SOAD...Chop Suey, Toxicity, Holy Mountains, and Hypnotize to start off. They are so much more than talented musicians!
Hello, message from japan🇯🇵． This song has been produced by every music elements. That is heavy metal，hip-hop，punk，hard-core and various other． I can't say it all，this song is so comical，heavy and well kneaded． Thank you for your awesome reaction !! With love，respect and compliment from japan🇯🇵 !!
Funnily enough when you mention Serj being classically trained. He actually has a live performance of a collection of some his solo works performed with a full symphony orchestra. It's stunning
I loved that you said it was ‘prophetic’- they truly understand the political climate of the world and the fact that this was actually released in 2005 makes it more impressive.
Idk if someone already mentioned it, but Serj was classically trained musically and utilizes a lot of operatic sound. Amazing talent from these guys glad to see the react from ya!
No he wasn't. Don't know where that rumour originated. In fact, you can read tons of stuff about him never having studied music and not even being a singer when SOAD started out.
Daron Malakian is the melodic* vocalist. While System's on hiatus, he's in Scars on Broadway, which is similar to System in creating music with a message *Edited to change other to melodic
Great reaction!) btw, the man screaming is Daron Malakian, SOAD’S guitarist) P.S. BYOB means Bring You Own Bombs, because this song, as far as I understand it, was written as the some kind of protest against the Iraq War that was going at that time)
B.Y.O.B was one my first metal songs from S.O.A.D that instantly made me love them, I was going through middle school when this song came out in a movie that played it.
I would love to see him reacting to Tankian's performance in Elect the Dead symphony. The match of his voice with a full orchestra behind him was incredible
Soad is in the top 3 of my all time favorite times. I love them alot. The cool thing about this band is that Daren Malakian (the guitarist) also sings and has in my opinion a very beautiful harmony with the lead singers voice. Serj Tankian is indeed a trained opera singer. And he has a solo career with songs you could also make vidos to. Their lyrics and musicianship is on a very high level and vocally i think there could be alot to talk about as they sometimes do some really whacky weird stuff in their songs. Listen to their song "Spiders" pls.
Serj Tankian IS a classically trained Opera singer. Daron Malakian is the guitarist who screams "Why do they always send the poor..?"- at the beginning and throughout the song, and he does the harmonizing with Serj. This was an Iraq War protest song. SOAD are Armenian, some of their families fled to America due to war and all the horrendous things that come with it... 🎯
You should listen to some to Serge's solo work. After he did his first album he rearranged it for an orchestra. It would be cool if you could listen to both versions of the same song. Something Like "Empty walls" or "Sky is Over".
You definitely should have had CC on for this one. This song released in the midst of the Afghanistan and Iraq war. It was put on youtube in 09. It released in 05. "Why don't presidents fight the war? Why do they always send the poor?" is one of the hardest hitting lyrics.
The thing I love most about this band is the masterful musicianship and the amazing vocal play between Serj and Darren. They are both great individually while Serj has a huge range and skill set. I recommend checking out "Chop Suey" I think it's an even fuller display of there skills.
That reaction to the opening scream was fantastic! These guys play a lot with dynamics and taking you by surprise with abrupt changes, and they've never done it more radically or effectively than in this song. The other part that tends to shock people is the second time they go into "Where the fuck are you?", actually interrupting the groove to break into it. Hard-hitting stuff, and the perfect vehicle for the lyrical message. They want to shock people out of complacency.
One of the best guitar licks of any song over ever heard. Such a dopamine hit. Theees songs that give a seratonin dump or a norepinephrine/adrenaline dump, this kick gives me dopamine. I feel like I will survive when I heard it
As a vocalist myself, if you want to see another incredible side of Serj and his vocals, please may i suggest "Suggestions" It's the song that hooked me as a SOAD fan!
I graduated high-school in 2009, I went to school and graduated with 68 people and watched my friends go to war and die. As I drank my way though college my friends less fortunate died in 130 dehree farenhiet sands, it took a while but when my eyes were opened it was impossible to close them. We are pawns in a larger game where the prices are generations of lost Souls.
You might go from here to Chop Suey. I remember your favorable reaction to the cover by Halocene. System Of A Down's original has more of a satiric bite. Worth listening to. Great reaction as always, Ken. When you have a moment, I think you'd enjoy analyzing Felix Irwan, an alumnus of The Voice Indonesia. His cover of When We Were Young has a surprising country tinge to it.
Your analysis of the song's meaning is really on point. We are sleeping and trying to party but the reality is harsh and we need to wake up right now. "Why don't presidents fight the war? Why do they always send the poor?" Why do the poor always fight the wars of rich people?
Their biggest hit, by far, is "Chop Suey". It has over 1 *billion* views here on RUclips currently. It still has their unique sound, but it's probably more widely palatable than some of their others. "Toxicity" is another one that's good like that. Here's "Chop Suey": ruclips.net/video/CSvFpBOe8eY/видео.html Are you familiar with Evanescence and their lead singer Amy Lee? They were massively popular in the early 2000s (winning Grammys, selling like 17+ million copies of their first album, etc. 3+ Billion views on their YT channel). They have lots of great songs, and here's one if you'd like to check them out: "My Heart is Broken" - ruclips.net/video/f1QGnq9jUU0/видео.html Listen to the first 5 seconds or so and see if it catches your ear (she sings from the first second).
You should definitely check out his solo song “Empty walls” the live version performed with the elect the dead symphony. Great songs to actually listen to his vocals as well as his song “Sky is over” live version as well
Best system vocals has to be question. It gives me chills every time. I think you'll love the harmonies. Its possibly one of their most under rated tracks but is an absolute masterpiece
Great reaction! You should check out Serj's solo stuff. I recommend "Gate 21 {Elect The Dead Symphony}" where it's only Serj with a piano. It's a beautiful song.
Daron Malakian is amazing, he has his own song called Lonely Day which shows his vocals really well also. the rock in rio live is amazing ruclips.net/video/MTwwhjjCE6I/видео.html this song was about the Wars in the middle east, it was a very vocal protest against Bush.
May I suggest “Sugar” or “Aerials” for a video observation Ken? Talented artists, too bad they no longer create due to artistic differences but still tour from time to time. I’d love to see them live. But Covid already jipped me out of “Rage Against the Machine” (My kid got us tickets) Hopefully things go back to normal soon. Enjoy your vids Ken
The guitarist, Daron Malakian also has his own band, The Scars on Broadway, Their albums are also pieces of art. Listen to The Dictator album. Serj on his own also is awesome. He has a great duet with his dad.
Love this band...Every single song!!! Love Serj too, he is amazing! I think you would like some of his music that he does alone! I wish I could see them live! Alot of people think metal is just loud screaming, angry people but most is so much more! But this band has alot of deep messages in their songs! Besides Pantera, this is my second favorite band! I really enjoyed watching your reaction to the song and I hope you have listened to more of their music! Check out the song that Serj does called "Rumi" if you haven't already!
I really enjoy your reactions. Your fascination with and enthusiasm for metal and screaming proves the rule: Don't judge a book by its cover XD Keep up the great work man!
iirc while he never had formal training, after the first album he put in a lot of practice to tighten up and develop his technique. Self Titled is much rougher, but by Mezmerize/Hypnotize he and Daron had the vocal harmonies down.
8:52 "when did this come out....2 thousand....nine.." See, that's the problem looking for the release date on youtube. That's when the video was UPLOADED, not the release date. This song came out in 2005. I saw them live that year at a concert festival called Ozfest that was owned by Ozzy Osbourne and his Wife Sharon. It no longer exists. It was one of those all day things. The song is about the war and how the US government makes poor people fight the wars THEY start. This is about the war in Afghanistan. It's very apparent that it's about war because it literally says so right after the screaming part in the middle. Serj said "Where the f*ck are you?" (twice) then "Why don't presidents fight the war? Why do they they always send the poor?" (twice).
You really need to read the lyrics while listening to this band. It adds so much to hear the vision behind the music. They can be chaotic as hell, and hard to understand. Certainly the first time you hear them, you will miss things... guaranteed. I just found out last week I was mis-quoting another song from them, and I have been listening since their first album dropped.
After your deep dive into System be sure to check out Serj's "solo" project under his name. Definitely check out System's library first, it is incredible.
It makes me happy when a vocal coach pays a bit of attention to the lyrics as well (even tho, I know it's not his job). Thank you for that. Great video. And if I may make a suggestion, I would love to see some Evanescence, either "My Immortal" or "Bring Me To Life" or "Lithium"
Recent subscriber but long time follower. You always pop in the recommended section. Going back to the Aurora era! Although a metal head, she is what brought me to your channel. She is the Best. LOVED the Eddie the Head series. Recent watched B.Y.O.B. if your interested in the "Serj" rabbit hole, Spiders is my all time favorite. Studio version is amazing or their is a Conan O'Brian live version you can check. I leave it to you Sir.
Daron Malakian is the guitar player and he sings leads and harmonies. Bring Your Own Bombs, it's about war. Innervision is an amazing song and so is Question. Really great vocals.
S.O.A.D. is without question my favorite band of all time and I actually 100% agree with your Josh Groban comparison. Serj is just in such a dramatically different medium than Groban is, but I couldn't figure out who I could fairly compare Serj's heavenly voice to until I saw this video. Daron Malakian also has a great voice that you don't get to hear much of in this song. Songs like "Lost in Hollywood" or "Kill Rock 'n Roll" or "Dreaming" he has major vocal roles in. Also, this song is in protest to the Irag war so B.Y.O.B. stands for "Bring Your Own Bombs" in this case.
B.Y.OB stands for Bring Your Own Bombs, it came out during the war. They often have politically charged lyrics. I'd suggest doing 'Aerials' for a great softer song, it also has a good official video.
truth
👌
'during the war' sadly, does not narrow it down.
Every song since 1939 has come out during a war the US was involved in ^^'
@@seban678 Hah, I could have been more specific, but I figured I didn't need to be, given he mentioned the year it was released
Daron is a good vocalist too. He screams, yes, but also do harmonies and melodic parts. Check out Lonely Day for Darons lead vocals. Also his solo project Scars on Broadway. Serj is of course the focal point vocally and his solo stuff is great too. I love the song Harakiri. Amazing. Serj also did a show with a symphony orchestra and just his vocals.
Lost in Hollywood for great Daron vocals too imo
@@veRGe02 Yeah. Great song too!
I would prefer hypnotize's harmonies over lonely day's but yes he's amazing
Such a lonely day, should be *banned*
Good vocalist? Dude's barely ever been on pitch live
Serj Tankian's solo music is definetly worth a listen as he is much more experimental with his voice. The single Harakiri is a good starting point. If you wanted to go deeper down the System of a down rabbit hole Spiders is a beautiful song.
Daron with "Scars on Broadway" is also pretty epic :)
@@jahrolo 🔥🔥
Serj turned into Pavarotti 😏
Serj does alot of music for movies and most of it is incredibly good.
Honestly serj promoted his commercial band or even only him self that's why he got more attention because of commercial and he did a great job.. and views speak it self!! On the other hand daron became more underground.. but every one surprise when he listens to s.o.b and start to ask why even no one have heard about them.. well he is main focus is to make a great music and to enjoy it with his only true fans not to be commercial,, this is why daron is so honest cuz he is not looking for fame and want to be Elvis of her s generation only want to have a real fans
At the time this was definitely a protest of the Iraq War. The most direct reference is the blowing up the desert. The guitarist does a lot of singing, either harmonizing on top of Serj, or sometimes even carrying the song. My impression is that Serj was the main writer behind the Toxicity album, but the guitarist was the main writer for the Hypnotize/Mesmerize albums from which this comes.
Yeah, the release date of 2009 is only for the youtube video, the song predates youtube.
A big clue is the NATO logo repeated in the video.
Thankyou, I couldn't figure out what that flag represented. Seeing it throughout this video, but I knew it had significance. Also, in the beginning of the video, there was a solid red flag draped over a rail, i could only guess that it represented bloodshed as the red light reflecting on the band would suggest too.
@@ct5625
Serj is a phenomenal vocalist and musician.
Daron too
@@georgemarko8403 all of them
Yes, his solo work is also really great. Have you heard him singing acapella with his father? An armenian folk song "Bari Arakeel":
ruclips.net/video/eOkRCR40sqU/видео.html
one of the best voices in the world. Been listening to SOAD for ages and still my favourite soad song changes every 2 weeks
thats exactly the feeling i get
Daron Malakian (the guitarist) is vocally no slouch either. The songs "Lonely Day" and "Hypnotize" really showcase what he can do.
Ooo don't forget about the iconic Radio/Video
He absolutely killed it :))
His solo stuff is also really fantastic with Scars on Broadway
I love Daron’s voice, combined with Serj’s is just amazing. Been a fan since the early 00’s, their music is so multifaceted and spans over many genres. They do it all and they do it perfectly. From metal, rock, to funk and cultural influences. Their albums are just filled with gems which is rare. Most albums contain a couple of good songs but not all. Spiders, Toxicity, Chop Suey, Revenga, Radio/video, Old School Hollywood, Lost In Hollywood, Dreaming, Holy Mountains etc. Do Questions! next, the vocals in that song are amazing.
This is the only band, that i like 100% of all their songs.
Can't tell this for anybody else.
Even Serj and Daron separate albums have very, very good and unique songs.
I am actually shocked that someone else besides me talks about Revenga! I love that song!
Definitely recommend Spiders, Question!, Aerials, Toxicity, and Holy Mountains for songs that really highlight how amazing Serj's voice is (and how well it meshes with Daron's). I really hope you feature more of their music!
Also Streamline has some strong vocals from Serge, especially at the end!
Yes spiders is still my favourite of everything they have released
@@mcullennz I dont know if I could choose my favorite SOAD song, I have heard them all at least 1000 times including demos and b-sides growing up... I always loved Steal this Album! when I was younger but I really don't know if I could choose a favorite song
Greattttt choices
Aerials. In the sky.
I love how "why don't presidents fight the wars? why do they always send the poor?" aren't asked, but sound more like accusations, to remind us that no matter what delusions we individually choose to use to cope with existence, we are still collectively and individually responsible as participants in society for what our leaders do. They don't just send us out, we let them, go for them, despite them having no real skin in the game because the fight won't hit their doorsteps til they're too old to care anyway and have already enjoyed the power of standing on our backs. Generals used to ride the front lines and lead the charges, now they have luxury bunkers and can't tie their own shoes. Revolution is a responsibility
Yup reminds me of Warpigs by Sabbath
Пролетарии всех стран объеденяйтесь ! РотФронт !
Куба любовь моя ! СССР родина !
"Politicians hide themselves away
They only started the war
Why should they go out to fight?
They leave that role to the poor"
Black Sabbath - War Pigs - released in 1970, it is the opening track from the band's second studio album Paranoid (1970).
Both songs remain highly relevant today across the world
Love this, the whole song is almost accusational and telling YOU to wake up, the first lyric is "you" straight up, then the chorus bit sounding all nicey but with the darker second part "dancing in the desert, blowing up the sunshine" and then at the end it gets cut off with those accusations, like its saying no, stop listening to the propaganda right now! It's such a layered and incredibly created piece of music, in many ways it's very tongue in cheek and straightforward in its message but simultaneously extremely nuanced
SOAD is heavy metal with a twist! Their music changes radically within songs ( in wonderful ways) and the message is always deep. Great band, great singer great stuff
7:02 is one of the best & most succint explanations of the song/video i've heard, which is absolutely wild when at the start of the video i was like "this guy's not gonna get it"
My favorite thing about SOAD as a whole is how beautifully Serj and Daron harmonize
7:00 - WELL PUT! You get it, the lyrics are tremendously meaningful and the delivery is spot-on. As it goes, "there's a method to the madness". Please do more SOAD...Chop Suey, Toxicity, Holy Mountains, and Hypnotize to start off. They are so much more than talented musicians!
This are two of the best rock singers ever. Their vocal range is amazing. Great reaction!
soad is crazy, but serj did a lot of his own work with his personal touch, that is worth watching. Serj Tankian - Lie Lie Lie
I think that it's one of his best songs
His Elect the Dead symphony was a vocal showcase imo. His solo stuff is a lot to chew over, very multifaceted.
Hello, message from japan🇯🇵．
This song has been produced by every music elements.
That is heavy metal，hip-hop，punk，hard-core and various other．
I can't say it all，this song is so comical，heavy and well kneaded．
Thank you for your awesome reaction !!
With love，respect and compliment from japan🇯🇵 !!
I never understood why is Serj overlooked many times amongst other metal singers. He is pure gold. You should check his solo concerts with orchestras.
Funnily enough when you mention Serj being classically trained. He actually has a live performance of a collection of some his solo works performed with a full symphony orchestra. It's stunning
I loved that you said it was ‘prophetic’- they truly understand the political climate of the world and the fact that this was actually released in 2005 makes it more impressive.
Idk if someone already mentioned it, but Serj was classically trained musically and utilizes a lot of operatic sound. Amazing talent from these guys glad to see the react from ya!
No he wasn't. Don't know where that rumour originated. In fact, you can read tons of stuff about him never having studied music and not even being a singer when SOAD started out.
Daron Malakian is the melodic* vocalist. While System's on hiatus, he's in Scars on Broadway, which is similar to System in creating music with a message
*Edited to change other to melodic
Actually system isn’t making any more music, John confirmed it, Daron and Serj can’t agree on something creatively
@@spencer4444 what about touring again?
@@perc3136 Serj said he’s gonna stop touring soon
@@spencer4444 fuck man i gotta see them live at least once
Lonely Day is a must reaction. It showcases both Serj's voice and Daron's, and the harmonies are on point.
S.O.A.D.- Chop Suey!!! It's absolutely amazing
Great reaction!) btw, the man screaming is Daron Malakian, SOAD’S guitarist) P.S. BYOB means Bring You Own Bombs, because this song, as far as I understand it, was written as the some kind of protest against the Iraq War that was going at that time)
I’m not a singer but I find vocal coach videos for bands like this so interesting. I love Serj. Thanks for it.
B.Y.O.B was one my first metal songs from S.O.A.D that instantly made me love them, I was going through middle school when this song came out in a movie that played it.
I love that Ken appreciates crazy stuff like this on its own terms, and not saying it's no good simply because it's not done "right".
Next do Aerials!
I would love to see him reacting to Tankian's performance in Elect the Dead symphony. The match of his voice with a full orchestra behind him was incredible
Yes!!! I've been wanting him to do a reaction to that for so long!
Oh hell I've gotta go check this one out now!
definitely should do it
UP 💓
Soad is in the top 3 of my all time favorite times.
I love them alot.
The cool thing about this band is that Daren Malakian (the guitarist) also sings and has in my opinion a very beautiful harmony with the lead singers voice.
Serj Tankian is indeed a trained opera singer.
And he has a solo career with songs you could also make vidos to.
Their lyrics and musicianship is on a very high level and vocally i think there could be alot to talk about as they sometimes do some really whacky weird stuff in their songs.
Listen to their song "Spiders" pls.
Serj Tankian IS a classically trained Opera singer. Daron Malakian is the guitarist who screams "Why do they always send the poor..?"- at the beginning and throughout the song, and he does the harmonizing with Serj. This was an Iraq War protest song. SOAD are Armenian, some of their families fled to America due to war and all the horrendous things that come with it... 🎯
You should listen to some to Serge's solo work. After he did his first album he rearranged it for an orchestra. It would be cool if you could listen to both versions of the same song. Something Like "Empty walls" or "Sky is Over".
Love "Sky is over"!
You definitely should have had CC on for this one.
This song released in the midst of the Afghanistan and Iraq war. It was put on youtube in 09. It released in 05.
"Why don't presidents fight the war? Why do they always send the poor?" is one of the hardest hitting lyrics.
The thing I love most about this band is the masterful musicianship and the amazing vocal play between Serj and Darren. They are both great individually while Serj has a huge range and skill set. I recommend checking out "Chop Suey" I think it's an even fuller display of there skills.
song is actually from 2005, it was just uploaded in 2009
That reaction to the opening scream was fantastic! These guys play a lot with dynamics and taking you by surprise with abrupt changes, and they've never done it more radically or effectively than in this song. The other part that tends to shock people is the second time they go into "Where the fuck are you?", actually interrupting the groove to break into it. Hard-hitting stuff, and the perfect vehicle for the lyrical message. They want to shock people out of complacency.
I have liked your channel for maybe a year or so and it will be very interesting to see you do more System of a Down!
Oh my god, thank you Keviiiin! SOAD is so good. Please do Questions! I love Serj’s voice in that one.
you are welcome Questions! is a epic song
One of the best guitar licks of any song over ever heard. Such a dopamine hit. Theees songs that give a seratonin dump or a norepinephrine/adrenaline dump, this kick gives me dopamine. I feel like I will survive when I heard it
at 1:28 Did I just hear you say " Weiner dogs and hot cross buns"? LOL
As a vocalist myself, if you want to see another incredible side of Serj and his vocals, please may i suggest "Suggestions"
It's the song that hooked me as a SOAD fan!
I graduated high-school in 2009, I went to school and graduated with 68 people and watched my friends go to war and die. As I drank my way though college my friends less fortunate died in 130 dehree farenhiet sands, it took a while but when my eyes were opened it was impossible to close them. We are pawns in a larger game where the prices are generations of lost Souls.
Adding a vote for Aerials next. Great range of singing in that song in a different way
This song is actually from 2005, the video was uploaded 2009
You might go from here to Chop Suey. I remember your favorable reaction to the cover by Halocene. System Of A Down's original has more of a satiric bite. Worth listening to. Great reaction as always, Ken. When you have a moment, I think you'd enjoy analyzing Felix Irwan, an alumnus of The Voice Indonesia. His cover of When We Were Young has a surprising country tinge to it.
As your a vocal gymnast.
Check out "lonely day"
Keep checking out metal. As you have found it will surprise you!
You are such a great music reader. Congradulations ! Love your comments.
your channel is what I like to watch the most! big hug from Brazil
Your analysis of the song's meaning is really on point. We are sleeping and trying to party but the reality is harsh and we need to wake up right now. "Why don't presidents fight the war? Why do they always send the poor?" Why do the poor always fight the wars of rich people?
Their biggest hit, by far, is "Chop Suey". It has over 1 *billion* views here on RUclips currently. It still has their unique sound, but it's probably more widely palatable than some of their others. "Toxicity" is another one that's good like that.
Here's "Chop Suey":
ruclips.net/video/CSvFpBOe8eY/видео.html
Are you familiar with Evanescence and their lead singer Amy Lee? They were massively popular in the early 2000s (winning Grammys, selling like 17+ million copies of their first album, etc. 3+ Billion views on their YT channel).
They have lots of great songs, and here's one if you'd like to check them out:
"My Heart is Broken" - ruclips.net/video/f1QGnq9jUU0/видео.html
Listen to the first 5 seconds or so and see if it catches your ear (she sings from the first second).
You should definitely check out his solo song “Empty walls” the live version performed with the elect the dead symphony. Great songs to actually listen to his vocals as well as his song “Sky is over” live version as well
Best system vocals has to be question. It gives me chills every time. I think you'll love the harmonies. Its possibly one of their most under rated tracks but is an absolute masterpiece
Great reaction! You should check out Serj's solo stuff. I recommend "Gate 21 {Elect The Dead Symphony}" where it's only Serj with a piano. It's a beautiful song.
Daron Malakian is amazing, he has his own song called Lonely Day which shows his vocals really well also.
the rock in rio live is amazing ruclips.net/video/MTwwhjjCE6I/видео.html
this song was about the Wars in the middle east, it was a very vocal protest against Bush.
I’m a little late to this party , but wow this guy is so likable , fav reactionist so far .
May I suggest “Sugar” or “Aerials” for a video observation Ken? Talented artists, too bad they no longer create due to artistic differences but still tour from time to time. I’d love to see them live. But Covid already jipped me out of “Rage Against the Machine”
(My kid got us tickets) Hopefully things go back to normal soon. Enjoy your vids Ken
Ken would enjoy QUESTION! a LOT System is amazing.
Hell yeah!!. Now you have to check out Daron Malakians solo stuff with Scars On Broadway.
What a fucking great band
Can't wait to hear the next exploration
The guitarist, Daron Malakian also has his own band, The Scars on Broadway, Their albums are also pieces of art. Listen to The Dictator album. Serj on his own also is awesome. He has a great duet with his dad.
Love this band...Every single song!!! Love Serj too, he is amazing! I think you would like some of his music that he does alone! I wish I could see them live! Alot of people think metal is just loud screaming, angry people but most is so much more! But this band has alot of deep messages in their songs! Besides Pantera, this is my second favorite band! I really enjoyed watching your reaction to the song and I hope you have listened to more of their music! Check out the song that Serj does called "Rumi" if you haven't already!
I strongly reccomend you to check out the "Select the dead Symphony" from Serj as solist.
SOAD excels at creating the complexity of 15-min prog rock tunes and squeezing it into 3-min songs. Such generous time savers, haha.
classically trained opera singer just goes perfect with their style
I really enjoy your reactions.
Your fascination with and enthusiasm for metal and screaming proves the rule:
Don't judge a book by its cover XD
Keep up the great work man!
Love their curly hair and their outfits.
This definitely came out before 2009. I remember listening to it in 2006
The one doing the scream at the beggining is Daron Malakian
Fun fact, Serj has never once been trained vocally so this is all natural.
yep
Anyway, all the vocalists are trained, it's just that their training is recording, rehearsal and live performances.
@@ggks3532 but in that case wouldn't serj still be able to do what he did when he trained during recordings and stuff?
iirc while he never had formal training, after the first album he put in a lot of practice to tighten up and develop his technique. Self Titled is much rougher, but by Mezmerize/Hypnotize he and Daron had the vocal harmonies down.
Nah he das lessons. I believe he said in an interview one time that he trained for 4 years and had some Opera training.
It came out earlier in 2005. They're a brilliant band.
Haha. "I'm barely keeping up" is a great way to describe system
8:52 "when did this come out....2 thousand....nine.."
See, that's the problem looking for the release date on youtube. That's when the video was UPLOADED, not the release date. This song came out in 2005. I saw them live that year at a concert festival called Ozfest that was owned by Ozzy Osbourne and his Wife Sharon. It no longer exists. It was one of those all day things. The song is about the war and how the US government makes poor people fight the wars THEY start. This is about the war in Afghanistan. It's very apparent that it's about war because it literally says so right after the screaming part in the middle. Serj said "Where the f*ck are you?" (twice) then "Why don't presidents fight the war? Why do they they always send the poor?" (twice).
You're an awesome vocal coach! Freakin' amazing! :D
I like that you make sure it’s known there’s a difference between screaming and singing without dumping on screaming
You really need to read the lyrics while listening to this band. It adds so much to hear the vision behind the music. They can be chaotic as hell, and hard to understand. Certainly the first time you hear them, you will miss things... guaranteed. I just found out last week I was mis-quoting another song from them, and I have been listening since their first album dropped.
8:26 "Nobody's dancing now" -- dang. Dystopian future's tagline.
After your deep dive into System be sure to check out Serj's "solo" project under his name. Definitely check out System's library first, it is incredible.
It makes me happy when a vocal coach pays a bit of attention to the lyrics as well (even tho, I know it's not his job). Thank you for that. Great video. And if I may make a suggestion, I would love to see some Evanescence, either "My Immortal" or "Bring Me To Life" or "Lithium"
System of a Down music is just something else love the message and I listen to their music every day xd
Recent subscriber but long time follower. You always pop in the recommended section. Going back to the Aurora era! Although a metal head, she is what brought me to your channel. She is the Best. LOVED the Eddie the Head series. Recent watched B.Y.O.B. if your interested in the "Serj" rabbit hole, Spiders is my all time favorite. Studio version is amazing or their is a Conan O'Brian live version you can check. I leave it to you Sir.
Thanks, Kevin!
Chop Suey is a great one! Omg you can tell you have never heard this song. That reaction was awesome!
Ken I love your breakdowns. I'd love to see you break down Will Ramos' new one-take playthrough of To the Hellfire.
Daron Malakian is the guitar player and he sings leads and harmonies. Bring Your Own Bombs, it's about war. Innervision is an amazing song and so is Question. Really great vocals.
Loved it love system of the down
I’d love if you’d react and dissect the vocals in the song Spiders by them as well.
It's cool you're getting into all this badass rock and metal.
You should really check out AFFIANCE. THE LEAD SINGER IS A BEAST
You 100% need to react to some of Serj's solo work - I'd recommend Empty Walls or Harakiri personally.
Serj definitely deserves a lot of love as an artist, activist and genius all around...
Try their song "Question!" really good singing and some acoustic elements to it. Also has the more aggressive vocal sections from Serj as well.
FYI the song is older than RUclips. Nothing on RUclips can be "older" than RUclips when it launched.
many 80's 90's 2000's song were uploaded in 2009.
B.Y.O.B was from 2005 if i'm correct
I love Soldier Side. Both a soft song and a song that hits!
This is an awesome band. It would be great if you would do more videos on them 🤗
City and Colour - Rain When I Die.
YOU’RE. WELCOME.
Love it!!
SOD are truly awesome and have such meaningful lyrics. Check out Chop Suey next or Lonely Day
S.O.A.D. is without question my favorite band of all time and I actually 100% agree with your Josh Groban comparison. Serj is just in such a dramatically different medium than Groban is, but I couldn't figure out who I could fairly compare Serj's heavenly voice to until I saw this video. Daron Malakian also has a great voice that you don't get to hear much of in this song. Songs like "Lost in Hollywood" or "Kill Rock 'n Roll" or "Dreaming" he has major vocal roles in. Also, this song is in protest to the Irag war so B.Y.O.B. stands for "Bring Your Own Bombs" in this case.
i bet they would both be able to do each other's music close to flawlessly XD