Due to the return of touring and the still-uncertain methods being used to protect artists, fans, and staff, more and more musicians and their crews are testing positive for COVID-19, even if they’ve been vaccinated. This is problematic primarily because many venues and tours have stipulations in place requiring artists to test negative before performing, so that if one band member gets sick, the whole show is over. Case in point, System of a Down have been forced to postpone their upcoming February 2022 arena dates in LA due to frontman Serj Tankian testing positive for COVID.
As reported by The PRP, System of a Down, who only just played their first shows since 2019 last week to great excitement, released the following statement concerning Tankian’s health and their upcoming performances:
“It is with great regret that we must reschedule our Los Angeles performances to February 4th and 5th, 2022. Despite multiple precautionary measures, Serj has unfortunately tested positive for COVID. We’re sorry to disappoint our amazing fans with this last minute news, as we could not wait to finally play for you.
“However, the health of our band, crew, venue staff and all of our fans is our top priority. All tickets will be honored the rescheduled dates. Refund availability will be sent to all ticket buyers via email.”
While this blows, it’s totally understandable. Not only do System of a Down have to adhere by the rules of their tour agreements and partner venues, but the band also have to look out for the undoubtedly sizable crew they’d have to bring along for shows this big.
Everyone at The Pit wishes Serj good health and a speedy recovery, and hopes that SOAD get a chance to make us gibber the breakdown lyrics from “Sugar!” at each other some time in the near future.
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Words by Chris Krovatin
