“Unmasking System of a Down’s Hidden Legal Battles”
Introduction:
System of a Down, the iconic American rock band known for their politically charged lyrics and distinctive sound, has always been in the public eye for their music and activism. However, beneath the surface, the band has been embroiled in a series of legal battles that have largely gone unnoticed by the general public. In this article, we will uncover some of the lawsuits and legal disputes that System of a Down has been involved in, shedding light on the lesser-known side of their career.
1. Royalty Disputes:
One of the most significant legal challenges faced by System of a Down involved disputes over royalties. Like many successful bands, issues over revenue sharing and royalties have been a common theme. In 2005, former manager David Benveniste filed a lawsuit against the band, alleging that he was owed a significant portion of their earnings. This lawsuit was settled out of court, but it highlighted the complexities of managing a band’s finances.
2. Copyright Infringement:
System of a Down’s music has often been praised for its originality, but they’ve also faced accusations of copyright infringement. In 2008, musician Greg Gillis, known as Girl Talk, claimed that the band had used his samples without permission. While this lawsuit was eventually dismissed, it served as a reminder of the challenges artists face when navigating the boundaries of creative freedom and copyright law.
3. Merchandising Disputes:
Merchandising is a vital revenue stream for many bands, and System of a Down is no exception. In 2010, the band was sued by their former merchandise company, Bravado International Group Merchandising Services, for unpaid fees and royalties related to the sale of band merchandise. The lawsuit was settled, but it highlighted the complexities of managing merchandise agreements.
4. Inner-Band Disputes:
While not a traditional legal battle, System of a Down has also faced internal conflicts. Vocalist Serj Tankian and guitarist Daron Malakian have had their differences over the years, leading to periods of inactivity for the band. While these disputes did not result in lawsuits, they have had a significant impact on the band’s career and creative output.
Conclusion:
System of a Down’s legal battles, though often overshadowed by their music and activism, have played a significant role in shaping the band’s journey. From royalty disputes to copyright infringement allegations, these legal challenges serve as a reminder that the music industry is not only about artistry but also about navigating complex legal terrain. While the band has managed to overcome these hurdles, it’s clear that even in the world of rock and roll, legal battles are an inevitable part of the journey.
