John Dolmayan
John Dolmayan – Life, Career & Influence
John Dolmayan (born July 15, 1972) is a Lebanese-Armenian American musician best known as the drummer for System of a Down. Learn about his journey, musical style, side projects, and legacy.
Introduction
John Dolmayan is a highly regarded drummer known especially for his work with the alternative/metal band System of a Down. Born July 15, 1972, he has contributed to some of the most influential albums in modern metal, while also branching into solo projects, comic book entrepreneurship, and side collaborations. His style, versatility, and entrepreneurial ventures make him not just a performer but a creative personality with multiple interests.
Early Life and Background
Dolmayan was born in Beirut, Lebanon to Armenian parents. During the Lebanese Civil War, his family moved first to Toronto, Canada, and eventually settled in California.
He was exposed to music early: his father was a saxophone player and played a variety of genres (jazz, Armenian, Arabic music). Dolmayan says that by age two, he was already mimicking drummers and showing interest in percussion. He learned by playing along with records and practicing many hours a day.
His influences include drummers such as John Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Keith Moon (The Who), Stewart Copeland (The Police), and Neil Peart (Rush).
Entry into System of a Down & Major Career
Joining System of a Down
In 1997, Dolmayan joined System of a Down after the original drummer Andy Khachaturian left due to a hand injury. With him on board, the band went on to record five studio albums:
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System of a Down (1998)
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Toxicity (2001)
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Steal This Album! (2002)
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Mezmerize (2005)
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Hypnotize (2005)
During the band’s hiatus (mid-2000s), they stopped releasing new full albums but continued touring intermittently.
Other Projects & Collaborations
When System of a Down was less active, Dolmayan explored other musical ventures:
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He was a drummer in Scars on Broadway, a project formed by bandmate Daron Malakian.
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In 2020, he launched a solo/cover project called These Grey Men.
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He has occasionally contributed to other musical works and collaborated on side tours.
Style, Technique & Gear
Dolmayan’s drumming style is known for being dynamic, versatile, and powerful—capable of supporting heavy metal, complex rhythms, and experimental textures. He draws from many genres and influences, not restricting himself to purely metal or rock idioms.
In terms of setup, he uses Tama drums, Paiste cymbals, Evans drumheads, and his custom signature equipment (e.g. his John Dolmayan signature snare) among others.
One interesting detail: he commissioned artwork from comic and pop-culture artists onto his drum kit—evidence of how his passion for comics intersects with his musical identity.
Business Ventures & Other Interests
Outside music, John Dolmayan is known for his deep involvement in comic books:
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He owns and operates Torpedo Comics, a comic book retail business.
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He has produced comics and developed titles such as Dead Samurai.
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His interest in comics dates back to childhood, and he has turned it into a full entrepreneurial pursuit.
He has also made investments and pursued business interests beyond music and comics.
Personal Life & Public Image
Dolmayan is married to Diana Dolmayan (née Madatyan), who is the sister of Serj Tankian’s wife, making them brothers-in-law.
Politically, he has been vocal and controversial. Unlike many of his bandmates, he has expressed support for Donald Trump and has made statements that have triggered backlash. He has acknowledged losing followers and some respect due to his political views.
Dolmayan’s outspokenness has sparked tensions within the band, as other members hold more liberal views.
Legacy & Influence
John Dolmayan is widely considered one of modern metal’s most influential drummers. He was ranked #33 on Loudwire’s Top 200 Hard Rock + Metal Drummers list. In 2006, he won Drum! Magazine’s “Drummer of the Year” award, among others.
Through System of a Down’s albums, his drumming helped shape their signature sound—blending aggression, rhythmical complexity, and nuance. His ability to adapt across styles gives him longevity.
His crossover into comics and entrepreneurship also broadens his legacy: he is not just a musician but a creative thinker who lives at the intersection of art, business, and fandom.