SYSTEM MONTH
Rick Rubin: One Mastermind Behind System Of A Down’s Fame
One man’s favorite became millions to others
It’s a frivolous night in the mean streets of Los Angeles. Record producer Rick Rubin visited The Viper Room to a sold-out concert of 200 patrons listening to a little-known band by the name of System of a Down. With beer in hand, Rick took a sip as he heard them play.
When the quintet roared out their composition, Rick couldn’t help but laugh in amazement. System of a Down’s subtle instrumentation was a sign; he found his new passion. No matter what, he had to have them on his label. After the show, he met the band backstage, and ask them to keep in touch. From there, the rest is history.
Rick Rubin left his initial record company, Def Jam, in the late ’80s to establish American Recordings (Def American Recordings) in 1988.
The label comprised notable acts such as Slayer, Johnny Cash, and Rubin’s new passion project, System of a Down. In 1998, Rick Rubin signed System of a Down when demo tape four reached the hands of American Recordings. Without hesitation, Rick Rubin and System of a Down began developing the band’s debut.
At first, Rubin’s enthusiastic venture didn’t see any traction, but Rubin saw something special in the…
