But in the aftermath of 9/11, Clear Channel Radio compiled a list of songs that were deemed “lyrically questionable” - and them banned from airplay in fear of triggering listeners. 1 on the Billboard album chart on September 11, 2001. The news coverage of the riot, along with the success of their single “Chop Suey,” released earlier that year, propelled “Toxicity” to debut at No.
![the strong tribute to system of a down album the strong tribute to system of a down album](http://soad-collection.e-monsite.com/medias/images/b-23-steal-this-album-serj-s-limited-edition-2002-1.jpg)
At the time, it was considered a complete disaster, but thrust the group into the global spotlight and suddenly System of a Down became a household name. CNN and other news outlets went live covering the turmoil, which lasted hours and resulted in multiple arrests. After learning the show was off, fans rushed the stage, destroyed the band’s gear and a riot broke out. Promoters expected about 2,000 fans, but over 10,000 showed up, which forced police to cancel the concert.
#THE STRONG TRIBUTE TO SYSTEM OF A DOWN ALBUM FREE#
Rewinding slightly, System was set to play a free show for Los Angeles radio station KROQ the day before the release in a parking lot in Hollywood.
![the strong tribute to system of a down album the strong tribute to system of a down album](https://media-us.cdn.prod.wmgecom.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1843/small_image/226x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/s/o/soad_mezmerizingwavelongsleeve_black.jpg)
The events surrounding the album’s release played a major part in the trajectory of the group. The rest of the band, and many Americans, were furious with Tankian. While the essay was quickly taken down by Sony Music, parent company to Columbia Records, which had signed System, the damage was done. At the time the country was united with grief and swelling patriotism, and his rhetoric was poorly timed.