Tavis Smiley Season 7 Episode 185 Serj Tankian
- October 11, 2010
Tavis Smiley is an American late-night talk show hosted by Tavis Smiley, featuring thought-provoking discussions with a variety of influential guests. In season 7, episode 185, titled "Serj Tankian," the show takes an insightful turn as it welcomes the multi-talented musician and activist, Serj Tankian.
In this episode, Tavis Smiley engages in a captivating conversation with Serj Tankian, exploring the remarkable journey of this renowned artist. Serj Tankian is best known as the lead vocalist of the Grammy-winning rock band System of a Down, but he is also an accomplished solo artist, songwriter, producer, and political activist.
Throughout the episode, Tavis Smiley delves into Serj Tankian's early life and his upbringing as an Armenian-American, which greatly influenced his perspective on art, activism, and the power of music. Tankian's passion for his heritage and social justice issues flows through his work, and his creative expression is deeply rooted in the experiences of his ancestors.
The discussion delves into Tankian's musical career, starting with the formation of System of a Down in the 1990s. Tavis Smiley explores the band's rise to fame and their unique fusion of genres, combining elements of alternative metal, punk rock, and Armenian folk music. Their music's raw energy and socially conscious lyrics resonated with a wide audience, leading to massive success and critical acclaim.
Beyond his music, Serj Tankian has used his platform to address pressing social and political issues. Tavis Smiley explores Tankian's activism, delving into his efforts to raise awareness about the Armenian Genocide and the struggle for recognition. They discuss Tankian's collaboration with various organizations and the power of art in inspiring change and promoting justice.
Furthermore, the conversation delves into Tankian's solo career, exploring his diverse musical projects and collaborations. Tavis Smiley highlights the creative freedom Tankian found as a solo artist, allowing him to explore and experiment with various styles, ranging from orchestral compositions to electronic music. Through his solo work, Tankian continues to explore thought-provoking themes and push the boundaries of artistic expression.
Not only is Serj Tankian a talented musician and activist, but he is also a passionate advocate for environmental causes. Tavis Smiley and Tankian delve into his dedication to sustainability and his initiatives in promoting renewable energy. They discuss Tankian's efforts to raise awareness about the devastating effects of climate change and the urgent need for collective action.
As the episode progresses, Tavis Smiley and Serj Tankian dive deep into the connection between art and activism. They explore how Tankian views art as a powerful vessel for social change, discussing the responsibility of artists to use their influence for the greater good. The conversation touches on Tankian's views on creative freedom and the delicate balance between commercial success and staying true to his artistic vision.
In this episode of Tavis Smiley, viewers can expect an engaging dialogue that goes beyond music. Tavis Smiley and Serj Tankian explore the intersections of art, activism, and social justice, offering profound insights into Tankian's creative process and his commitment to making a difference in the world. The episode provides an intimate portrait of Tankian's life, his contributions to music, and the enduring impact of his art on the world stage.
Overall, season 7, episode 185 of Tavis Smiley featuring Serj Tankian promises a thought-provoking and enlightening conversation with a visionary artist and activist. Viewers can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of Tankian's multifaceted career, his dedication to social and environmental causes, and the profound influence of his music.