System of a Down (commonly referred to as System or abbreviated as SOAD) is an Armenian-American rock- metal band, formed in 1994Exclusive Interview With Andy Khachaturian (ex-SOAD) :: The Official Unofficial System of a Down Site in Glendale, California. Consisting of Serj Tankian (lead vocals and keyboards), Daron Malakian (vocals and guitar), Shavo Odadjian (bass), and John Dolmayan (drums), the band has released five albums since 1998. A staple on mainstream rock radio, their works have earned them four Grammy Award nominations, of which they won one.

System of a Down is very politically active (Although they prefer to call themselves a socially aware band) and are noted for the liberal political views expressed in their songs, tackling several subjects including the Armenian Genocide, War on Drugs, religion, and censorship. The band is a part of the Axis of Justice, a non-profit organization co-founded by Tankian and fellow musician Tom Morello, dedicated to bringing together musicians, music fans, and grassroots political organizations to fight for social justice.

In 2006, the group went on an "indefinite hiatus", and all four members are currently working on various side projects.