Artist Spotlight

Rage Against the Machine

rap metal · 1991–1996

Rage Against the Machine is an American band from Los Angeles, known for their explosive fusion of rap metal, funk metal, and alternative rock. Featuring the dynamic vocals of Zack de la Rocha, the innovative guitar work of Tom Morello, and the solid rhythm section of Tim Commerford and Brad Wilk, they crafted a sound that challenged the status quo. Their lyrics, steeped in anti-authoritarian and anti-capitalist themes, are as fierce as their music, with tracks like "Killing in the Name," "Bulls on Parade," and "Darkness" serving as rallying cries for change. With a style that still sparks conversations, they remind us that music can be a powerful force for revolution.

The facts

Formed 1991
United States
rap metal, rap rock, funk metal
On Epic Records, Revelation Records
Members: Zack de la Rocha, Tom Morello, Tim Commerford, Brad Wilk

The story behind “Killing in the Name”

The whole band is just guitar, bass, drums, and voice — every wild sound is Tom Morello's guitar.
It became an unlikely UK Christmas #1 in 2009 via a fan campaign.