The year was 2001. Certain Armenian-Americans had yet to rise to prominence with their endeavors in worldwide dumbing down. Certain other Armenian-Americans were actually contributing worthwhile artistry, respected by fans and critics alike. Thusly, this post is dedicated to those actually sharing tangible and meaningful accomplishments towards the greater good of mankind.

System Of A Down, the alt-metal four-piece formed out of the Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School in Southern California, would rise to national attention with the release of their second album and it’s lead single, the somewhat controversial “Chop Suey!”

With Toxicity sitting atop the album charts during the 9/11 attacks, the cut came under fire for it’s darker lyrics concerning dying and suicide. Clear Channel Radio would blacklist it, placing it in a catalog dubbed “post 9/11 inappropriate tiles,” urging stations not to spin the track. But that move would only further it’s subversive appeal.

And with erratic, in-your-face drum patterns and high-octane metal overtures distinguishing this as such a buzzworthy effort, it managed to chart across the globe with virtually no airplay. And it’s landed on plenty of the finest music snob’s ‘Best Songs’ lists throughout the years too.

Plus it’s just a fucking rad song to blast at eardrum-melting levels: