In a recent interview with Louder Sound, System Of A Down bassist Shavo Odadjian discussed the band’s return to touring after a seven-year hiatus.
The musician explained how band members resolved their differences by recognizing the impact of external factors on their relationships.
“We’re older now, and we respect each other, and we’ve talked,” Odadjian said. “We’ve noticed how social media, and the media in general, has swayed us. We’ve just turned everything off and… we’re grateful for each other. We love each other. Anything that has happened between us is minuscule. We’re just playing, doing what we feel like doing.”
The band’s reconciliation follows a period of internal tensions and reduced touring activity. Their improved relationship management and public presence marks a new chapter in their journey.
The band’s “Wake Up!” tour launched in 2025, as reported by Louder Sound. This marks their first full-scale touring effort since 2018. The schedule encompasses performances across Latin America, the United States, and Canada, including regions they haven’t visited in ten years.
Internal challenges preceded this reunion. Drummer John Dolmayan made public statements in January 2023 about frontman Serj Tankian’s diminished interest in the band. He suggested the group should have separated around 2006 due to creative and operational conflicts.
Tankian’s 2024 memoir “Down with the System” revealed additional details about past tensions. He had offered to step down as vocalist during the 2005 hiatus due to a back injury and reduced interest in touring. The band secretly auditioned a new singer without his knowledge. They ultimately decided to continue with Tankian.
Recent touring activities demonstrate the band’s renewed dedication. Their 2024 performances included a headline spot at the Sick New World festival. They also co-headlined a historic concert with Deftones at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, marking the venue’s first ticketed event.
The band’s touring schedule has expanded due to high demand. They added second nights to several stadium shows. These performances feature co-headlining acts including Korn, Avenged Sevenfold, and Deftones at major venues such as Metlife Stadium, Soldier Field, and Rogers Stadium.
