by Serj Tankian
First published 2024
Serj Tankian opens his story as a child in Beirut, listening to bombs explode outside his home during Lebanon's civil war. At seven, he moves with his Armenian parents to Los Angeles, where he grows up in Little Armenia learning about his ancestors' genocide while watching his family navigate the American Dream. The narrative follows his decision to abandon law school for music, leading to the formation of System of a Down. Tankian describes the band's unlikely rise with their unclassifiable mix of aggressive metal, Armenian folk melodies, and politically charged lyrics. He recounts hitting number one on Billboard the morning of September 11th, only to have their single banned from radio days later. The memoir traces his evolution from musician to activist, including collaborations with Tom Morello, confrontations with police, and studio sessions with Rick Rubin. Tankian weaves together his experiences as an immigrant, artist, and social justice advocate, exploring how music became his vehicle for addressing political issues and connecting with millions of fans worldwide.
Genres: autobiography, biography-memoir, music, activism
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, social-justice
Setting: Beirut, Lebanon, Los Angeles, Little Armenia
Period: September 11th, Civil War
352 pages · Hardcover · Da Capo
Content warnings: war