Born in Hollywood in 1975, Daron Malakian emerged as a driving force in alternative metal through his role as the guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist for System of a Down. His career spans decades of recording and live performance, establishing his reputation as a musician who focuses on the instrument as a tool for songwriting rather than technical virtuosity.
Early Influences and Education
Raised in an artistic household by parents Vartan and Zepur Malakian, Daron developed an early interest in heavy metal. He attended the Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School in Los Feliz, where he first met future collaborators including Shavo Odadjian and Serj Tankian. Later, he attended Glendale High School in California. His initial musical tastes were shaped by acts such as Kiss, Van Halen, and Judas Priest, later expanding to include thrash and groove metal bands like Slayer and Pantera, as well as the songcraft of The Beatles.
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In 1993, Malakian and Tankian met while performing in separate acts at a shared rehearsal studio. They initially formed a project called Soil before transitioning into the band Victims of a Down, eventually renaming the group System of a Down at the suggestion of Odadjian. Following the departure of original drummer Andy Khachaturian in 1997, John Dolmayan joined the lineup. During this period, Malakian began collaborating with producer Rick Rubin, contributing to the band's studio albums and co-producing works for other artists.
Scars on Broadway
Following a hiatus from System of a Down, Malakian launched the project Daron Malakian and Scars on Broadway. The band released a self-titled album in 2008, featuring the single "They Say." Although a tour was planned, Malakian canceled all public appearances shortly before the live dates commenced. He retreated from the public eye for over a year before resurfacing at a 2009 benefit concert and continuing his collaborations with various artists, including an appearance on the 2010 Cypress Hill album Rise Up.
Fast facts
- Born: 1975, Hollywood
- Citizenship: United States
- Languages: English, Armenian
- Education: Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School; Glendale High School
- Primary Instruments: Guitar, Vocals
- Major Project: System of a Down
- Solo/Side Project: Daron Malakian and Scars on Broadway
Questions readers ask
Which bands influenced Daron Malakian's songwriting?
He cites influences ranging from British Invasion groups like The Beatles, The Kinks, and The Who, to metal acts including Slayer, Black Sabbath, and Iron Maiden.
Why was the name System of a Down chosen?
The name was derived from a poem written by Malakian. The word 'victims' was changed to 'system' to broaden the band's appeal and ensure their records were shelved near Slayer in music stores.
Achievements
- Instruments: guitar and voice
- Genres: alternative metal
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