System of a Down

Armenian-inspired rock with powerful political messages.

Best Seats for System of a Down

Upcoming Events Calendar

Aug 17

Sat . 06:00 PM

System of a Down with Deftones

Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
If the angsty riffs of "Chop Suey!" or the political undertones of "B.Y.O.B." still give you chills, then welcome to the world of System of a Down (SOAD). Blending rock with nu-metal, punk, and even some traces of Armenian folk music, SOAD stands tall as a band that’s not afraid to be eccentric, loud, and above all, relevant.

For those who came of age in the late '90s and early 2000s, SOAD’s rise from local gigs in their home of Los Angeles to their present-day Behemoth status reads like a modern-day fairy tale of rock and roll.

They’ve crisscrossed the nation, belting out hits in venues big and small. One memorable gig? The show at Pine Knob Music Theatre in Clarkston, Michigan. Picture this: thousands of fans, faces painted, belting out every lyric under the starry Midwestern sky. The energy was tangible, almost electric.

Another favorite? Their headbanging extravaganza at the Tacoma Dome in Washington. With its expansive setup, fans had the choice to mosh down below or enjoy the expansive view from the Bleachers. But here’s a little tip: often the best seats at a SOAD concert aren’t the most expensive or the closest. They’re where you can feel the thump of Shavo Odadjian's bass in your chest and get lost in Serj Tankian's hypnotic vocals. You know, the spots where the sound and spirit meld into pure magic.

While venue sizes and settings differ, ticket prices for a SOAD gig can range from a reasonably priced $60 for general admission to a heftier $200+ if you're vying for those "best seats" up front. Remember, The Early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the ticket! Scour local ads, band websites, and community pages for the best deals and dates.

Over the years, SOAD hasn’t just been about their own tunes. They've often shared the limelight with contemporaries, sometimes in concert and at other times in the studio. Their partnership with Deftones' Chino Moreno for a rendition of "Toxicity" had fans in a frenzy. Similarly, their collaboration with tech-metal band Animals As Leaders gave a fresh dimension to their sound, reinforcing their commitment to evolving Musically.

Now, let’s throw it back a bit to their gig at the Charlotte Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre in North Carolina. The combination of the sultry southern night, the glistening city skyline, and Daron Malakian's guitar riffs created an atmosphere that was almost ethereal. Fans were treated to both classics and newer hits, turning the night into a timeline of SOAD’s illustrious career.

And who could forget their legendary performance at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista, California? Close to their LA roots, this performance felt like a homecoming. The crowd? Ecstatic. The performance? Otherworldly. It’s these smaller, local venues where you can see a band in its purest form, stripped of grandeur but filled with heart.

From those who’ve seen them in their earliest days at Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood to newer fans catching them at expansive arenas, there’s a universal truth: System of a Down knows how to put on a show. Each concert is more than just music; it's an experience, a headbanging, heart-thumping ride into the ethos of a band that's been a voice for change, introspection, and the pure joy of rock.

So, whether you're planning to catch them in a sprawling stadium or a cozy local venue, rest assured, with System of a Down, every seat is the best seat in the house. It's not about the view but the vibe, the camaraderie, the collective voice of thousands singing in unison. And in that sense, every SOAD concert is a homecoming of sorts, a return to The Roots of what makes rock music so undeniably powerful.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

When did System of a Down start touring?
System of a Down began touring shortly after forming in 1994. Their live performances gained traction, leading to bigger venues and international tours.
Do they perform songs from all their albums at concerts?
While setlists vary per concert, System of a Down typically plays a mix of their hits across all albums. However, specific songs can change based on the tour or event.
Are concerts kid-friendly?
SOAD concerts can be intense, with loud music, mosh pits, and mature themes in some songs. It's advised for older teens and adults, but parental discretion is essential.
How long does a typical SOAD concert last?
A standard System of a Down concert typically lasts between 90 minutes to 2 hours, though this can vary based on setlists, encores, and specific events.
Can I buy band merchandise at the concert?
Yes, SOAD usually has a merchandise booth at their concerts selling apparel, posters, and other band-related items. It's a great way to commemorate the experience!

Interesting Information about System of a Down

  • System of a Down's unique sound melds rock with Armenian musical elements, reflecting the band's heritage and infusing their music with distinct cultural resonance.
  • Their track "B.Y.O.B." clinched a Grammy in 2006 for Best Hard Rock Performance, solidifying their place as influential pioneers in the modern rock scene.
  • Frontman Serj Tankian and guitarist Daron Malakian both started separate musical projects, Serj with "Serjical Strike" and Daron with "Scars on Broadway."
  • Beyond music, the band actively campaigns for Armenian Genocide recognition, using their platform to raise awareness and advocate for global acknowledgment.
  • SOAD went on hiatus in 2006, but their powerful reunion in 2010 at the Download Festival had fans ecstatic, rekindling their bond and legendary status.