Born in 1974 in Yerevan, Shavo Odadjian moved to Los Angeles at age five, eventually emerging as a central figure in the alternative metal scene. Best known as the bassist for System of a Down, he transitioned from managing the group in their early days to shaping their sonic identity and visual presentation through decades of recording and performance.
Early Involvement and System of a Down
While studying psychology and art in college, Odadjian worked in a bank and managed Soil, a band featuring Daron Malakian and Serj Tankian. After joining them in 1995, the group rebranded as System of a Down. He transitioned away from managerial duties as the band gained traction, though he maintained control over stage design, lighting, and the direction of their music videos. He contributed to songwriting for tracks such as Toxicity, Sugar, and Bounce, often utilizing a pick-based playing style on the bass.
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During the System of a Down hiatus from 2006 to 2010, Odadjian explored diverse musical avenues, most notably through the project Achozen. Formed alongside RZA, Kinetic 9, and Reverend William Burke, the group sought to define a genre they described as heavy hip hop. Recording primarily in his own studios, Odadjian produced the tracks, utilizing live instrumentation like the sitar and bass rather than relying on heavy guitars. He also contributed to the musical scoring for the film Babylon A.D. alongside RZA and Hans Zimmer.
Musical Philosophy and Performance
Odadjian has resisted categorizing his output strictly within political frameworks, preferring to describe his work as reflecting life in its entirety, including social issues, death, and personal experience. His professional life has included navigating the complexities of the music industry, including a 2003 lawsuit following an incident involving security at the Van Andel Arena in 2001. Throughout his career, he has maintained a distinct personal image, often recognized by his signature braided beard and spiked wrist accessories.
Fast facts
- Born: 1974, Yerevan
- Primary Instrument: Bass guitar
- Major Bands: System of a Down, Achozen
- Citizenship: United States, Soviet Union
- Notable Tracks: Toxicity, Sugar, Jet Pilot
- Education: Alex Pilibos Elementary School
- Other Roles: Composer, disc jockey, guitarist
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of the band name System of a Down?
It was derived from a poem written by Daron Malakian titled Victims of a Down, which the group modified to appeal to a wider audience.
What musical instruments does Shavo Odadjian play?
He is primarily a bassist but also plays guitar and utilized the sitar during his work with the project Achozen.
Achievements
- Instruments: bass guitar
- Genres: rock music, heavy metal music and alternative metal
