Analysis: Rage Against The Machine.

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Chris Courchaine

Humanities 123

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Miller

Analysis:  Rage Against The Machine

In an analysis of the controversial rock band, Rage Against The Machine, I will demonstrate the prevailing factors in this group’s success.  Rage Against The Machine are successful because they openly challenge United States government hypocrisies in their music, participate in protests and benefit concerts, and present their message in a mainstream form of music.  

Rage Against The Machine was formed in Los Angeles, California by lead singer Zack De La Rocha, and lead guitarist Tom Morrelo, in 1991.  These two explosive characters were joined by Tim Commerford on bass and Brad Wilk on drums.  The band has been presented with several awards over the last 12 years including international platinum and gold records, a Grammy, and several other miscellaneous awards given by different associations.  Tom Morrelo, a graduate of Harvard with a PhD in music, has been awarded guitarist of the year four years in a row for his outstanding performances and innovative techniques.  In 1992, the band’s first commercial album was released on Epic Records.  In 1994, this album was certified platinum in the United States as well as Canada, Belgium, U.K., France, and Chile.  The album was certified double platinum in new Zealand, and gold in Germany, Denmark, Holland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and Australia.  Their second album, titled Evil Empire, reached number one on the Billboard 200 within three weeks of the release.  Six months later it is certifies double platinum in the United States.  A home video released in 1998 is certifies platinum in the Unites States.  Their third and final album titled The Battle of Los Angeles was released on election day in 1999.

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The name says everything about Rage Against The Machine. The aggressive musical blend of metal guitar and hip-hop rhythms is background to the rap-styled delivery of angry, confrontational, political lyrics.  The group addresses concerns over inner city deprivation, racism, censorship, propaganda, the plight of Native Americans and many other issues.  In every song on the three albums produced by the band, there is a political message to be heard.  The messages are clearly heard in the lyrics of the songs, but they are delivered in a way that is open to interpretation.  Examples of lyrics contained in songs would include: ...

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