The Making of Evil Empire by Rage Against the Machine

Introduction

Rage Against the Machine’s second album, Evil Empire, released on April 16, 1996, stands as a powerful testament to the band’s unique blend of music and politics. Emerging during a time of political upheaval and cultural shifts, this album cemented their place in music history. With its provocative themes and aggressive sound, Evil Empire resonated with audiences worldwide, sparking conversations that remain relevant today.

In this article, we will explore the genesis of Evil Empire, its recording process, commercial success, track analysis, and the legacy it left behind. We will delve into the album’s impact on music and culture, providing an exhaustive resource for fans and scholars alike.

The album’s significance is evident in its immediate impact, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. Moreover, it won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance, showcasing its critical acclaim. Tom Morello, the band’s guitarist, described the album as a blend of “hip-hop and punk rock,” likening it to a mix between Public Enemy and The Clash.

The Genesis of “Evil Empire”

The mid-1990s were a turbulent time for music, with grunge giving way to alternative rock and nu metal. Rage Against the Machine had already made a name for themselves with their self-titled debut album in 1992. Their unique blend of metal, punk, and hip-hop, coupled with politically charged lyrics, set them apart from their contemporaries. As the band prepared to record their second album, they faced both creative and personal challenges.

Before Evil Empire, the band spent years touring and refining their sound. Their debut album had set high expectations, and they were determined to exceed them. Despite internal tensions, the band regrouped at Cole Rehearsal Studios in Los Angeles, where they aimed to channel their diverse influences into a cohesive sound. The album’s creation involved all four band members: Zack de la Rocha (vocals), Tom Morello (guitar), Tim Commerford (bass), and Brad Wilk (drums).

Epic Records financed the recording, with Brendan O’Brien as the producer. The album’s title, Evil Empire, was inspired by Ronald Reagan’s term for the Soviet Union, reflecting the band’s critique of American policies. The artwork, designed by Mel Ramos, features a young boy in a superhero outfit, symbolising innocence amidst political chaos.

Recording Process

The recording of Evil Empire was an intense process, marked by the band’s desire to capture their live energy in the studio. The sessions took place at Cole Rehearsal Studios in Los Angeles from November to December 1995. This studio, known for its raw sound and intimate setting, provided the perfect backdrop for the band’s explosive style.

Key personnel included producer Brendan O’Brien, known for his work with Pearl Jam and Stone Temple Pilots, and engineers Nick DiDia and Caram Costanzo. Their expertise helped shape the album’s sound, blending aggressive riffs with intricate rhythms.

Despite the challenges, the band managed to create a sound that was both raw and polished. Brendan O’Brien’s production style, known for its clarity and power, was a perfect fit for the band’s aggressive approach. The result was an album that captured the intensity of their live performances while introducing new sonic elements.

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, Evil Empire achieved significant commercial success. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 249,000 copies in its first week. This marked a major achievement for the band, cementing their status in the music industry.

The album’s success was not limited to the United States. It also charted in the top ten in several countries, showcasing its global appeal. The album was certified triple platinum by the RIAA, further highlighting its widespread popularity.

The album received several awards and recognitions. It won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for “Tire Me” and was nominated for Best Hard Rock Performance for “Bulls on Parade” and “People of the Sun.” These accolades further solidified its place in music history.

Other notable albums released in 1996 include:

• Antichrist Superstar by Marilyn Manson
• Load by Metallica
• The Great Southern Trendkill by Pantera

The year 1996 was a pivotal one for heavy music, with many influential albums being released. Rage Against the Machine’s Evil Empire stood out for its unique sound and powerful message.

Track Analysis

The singles released from Evil Empire played a significant role in its success. “Bulls on Parade” was released on February 9, 1996, followed by “People of the Sun” on August 22, 1996, and “Vietnow” on October 10, 1997. Each single showcased the band’s ability to blend aggressive riffs with thought-provoking lyrics.

Note: Songs marked with * were singles. “Bulls on Parade” reached number 11 on the US Alternative Airplay chart.

Song Meaning and Lyrics

The lyrics of Evil Empire are a powerful reflection of the band’s political stance. “Bulls on Parade” critiques military spending and the prioritisation of war over essential needs. The line “Weapons, not food, not homes, not shoes” highlights this disparity.

“People of the Sun” addresses the Zapatista movement, drawing attention to the struggles of indigenous peoples. The song’s opening riff symbolises a call to arms against oppression.

“Down Rodeo” explores themes of class and racial inequality, set against the backdrop of Rodeo Drive. The line “rollin’ down Rodeo with a shotgun” represents resistance against systemic oppression.

Writing credits for these songs go to the band members: Zack de la Rocha, Tom Morello, Tim Commerford, and Brad Wilk. Their collaborative effort resulted in a cohesive and impactful album.

Touring and Promotion of Evil Empire

The promotion of Evil Empire involved a strategic mix of music videos, live performances, and tours. The band released music videos for their singles, enhancing their visibility and appeal. They also embarked on an extensive tour to support the album.

The 1996 tour included 91 shows across North America, showcasing the band’s energetic performances. Notable venues included the Hollywood Palladium and the Aragon Ballroom. The tour was a major success, drawing large crowds and further cementing the band’s reputation.

During the tour, Rage Against the Machine shared the stage with bands like Girls Vs. Boys and Stanford Prison Experiment. These collaborations added variety to the shows and attracted diverse audiences.

Influences and Legacy

The musical influences on Evil Empire were diverse, ranging from hip-hop and punk to metal and funk. Artists like Public Enemy and The Clash inspired the band’s sound and political message.

Released in 1996, Evil Empire was part of a year filled with significant events. The Motorola StarTAC, the first flip phone, was released, and the O.J. Simpson civil trial concluded. In film, Independence Day dominated the box office, showcasing the era’s cultural landscape.

Five Things about Evil Empire

Here are five intriguing facts about Evil Empire that you might not know:

Media and Television Usage

Despite its popularity, no songs from Evil Empire were used in media according to available data. This may be due to the album’s politically charged content, which might not align with mainstream media themes.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Evil Empire received mixed reviews upon release. Critics praised its powerful message and innovative sound but noted its aggressive tone. Over time, it has been re-evaluated as a classic of its genre.

After Evil Empire

Following the release of Evil Empire, Rage Against the Machine continued to build on their success. They released The Battle of Los Angeles in 1999, which further cemented their legacy. However, internal tensions eventually led to Zack de la Rocha’s departure in 2000.

The band reunited in 2007 for a series of shows, delighting fans worldwide. Despite the reunion, they faced challenges, including lineup changes and Zack’s discomfort with fame. As of October 2024, Rage Against the Machine is no longer performing live, as confirmed by drummer Brad Wilk.

While the band has disbanded, their influence remains strong. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2023, recognising their contributions to music and activism.

Remasters and Reissues

In 2018, Evil Empire was reissued as part of a remastered collection, enhancing its sound quality and appeal. This reissue was well-received by fans, offering improved audio fidelity and durability.

The remastered editions include the original tracklist and artwork, maintaining the album’s authenticity while providing a modern listening experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Evil Empire remains a powerful and relevant album, reflecting the band’s commitment to political activism and musical innovation. Its impact on music and culture is undeniable, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike. As we look to the future, Rage Against the Machine’s legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of music as a tool for change.

Further Reading

• Our blog article on Rage Against the Machine’s debut album
• Our blog article on Korn’s Follow The Leader
• Our blog article on Pantera’s Vulgar Display of Power
• Wikipedia page for “Evil Empire”
• Official Rage Against the Machine website
• Epic Records website

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Evil Empire by Rage Against the Machine. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!