Tim Commerford
Tim Commerford – Life, Career, and Famous Quotes
Uncover the life and music of Tim Commerford: bassist and vocalist of Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, and more. Explore his roots, artistry, struggles, and his most memorable quotes.
Introduction
Timothy Robert Commerford (born February 26, 1968) is an American musician best known as the bassist and backing vocalist for the groundbreaking rock band Rage Against the Machine. Beyond that, he has played with Audioslave, Prophets of Rage, and led newer projects such as Future User and Wakrat.
Commerford’s bass lines and onstage presence have helped define the fusion of rap, metal, and political expression. His personal journey—from early influences, through evolving bands, to staying active in new music projects—offers insight into a determined and outspoken artist.
Early Life and Family
Tim Commerford was born on February 26, 1968, in Irvine, California.
His father worked as an aerospace engineer, involved with NASA and the Space Shuttle program. mathematician.
Tragically, his mother was diagnosed with brain cancer, and she passed away in 1988, when Tim was about 20.
While growing up, Commerford was exposed to diverse musical influences. He was a fan of Rush, Gene Simmons, Sid Vicious, Steve Harris, and Geddy Lee. Zack de la Rocha in grade school (5th grade), beginning a friendship that would later lead to Rage Against the Machine.
In his youth, he played football and swam.
Music Career and Achievements
Rage Against the Machine (1991–2000, reunions)
In 1991, Commerford joined forces with Zack de la Rocha, guitarist Tom Morello, and drummer Brad Wilk to form Rage Against the Machine.
Over the 1990s, Rage released albums including Evil Empire, The Battle of Los Angeles and Renegades. Their music often had strong political and social critique, and Commerford’s bass work was a critical foundation in their sound.
In 2000, Commerford made headlines by scaling a stage scaffolding at the MTV Video Music Awards to protest the award results, leading to his arrest.
Rage reunited in later years (2007–2011) and again more recently.
Audioslave (2001–2007)
After Zack de la Rocha left Rage, Commerford and the remaining members joined with Chris Cornell (former Soundgarden vocalist) to form Audioslave. Audioslave, Out of Exile, and Revelations.
Commerford continued on bass and backing vocals in this new musical direction.
Prophets of Rage, Future User, Wakrat & 7D7D
He later became part of the supergroup Prophets of Rage, which merged Rage’s members with Chuck D and B-Real.
Since 2013, Commerford has led Future User (formed in 2013) as frontman, bassist, and vocalist.
He also formed the punk-influenced band Wakrat in 2015, in which he again takes on vocal duties alongside bass.
More recently, Commerford is also involved with 7D7D, a newer project.
Style, Technique & Recognition
Commerford plays bass primarily with his fingers, and he prefers not to use a pick.
He has used Music Man StingRay basses and a variety of custom bass rigs.
In 2014, Paste magazine ranked him #8 on their list of “20 Underrated Bass Guitarists.”
Personal Life, Challenges & Advocacy
Commerford was married to Aleece Dimas in 2001, and the couple had two sons.
In 2022, Commerford publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier that year and underwent surgery.
He describes himself as a conspiracy theorist — notably questioning the legitimacy of the lunar landing and stating that he does not believe ISIS is real.
Famous Quotes
Here are some representative quotes from Tim Commerford that reflect his perspectives, convictions, and personality:
“I’m a conspiracy theorist. I can’t help but look at the lunar landing and go, ‘We didn’t go to the moon.’ We never went there. My dad worked for NASA on the Apollo missions, and I’ve always felt it’s been fake since I was a kid.”
“To me, music is not a stunt. Music is not a joke. I take every lick of music that I’ve ever played very serious.”
“Any time people are breaking outside the norm and playing something that isn’t expected — that feels like punk to me.”
“Luck has a lot to do with being a musician.”
“To me, protesting and playing music go hand in hand.”
“My bass is my weapon.”
“I can’t stop myself from finding information that makes me mad and writing about it.”
These quotes highlight his passion for music, his activism mindset, and his willingness to confront controversial ideas.
Lessons from Tim Commerford
From Commerford’s journey and words, several lessons stand out:
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Creativity with conviction
He views music not merely as entertainment but as a vehicle for expression and protest. -
Versatility matters
Transitioning across bands and roles (bassist, vocalist, frontman) shows adaptability while retaining personal voice. -
Persistence through adversity
Personal losses, health challenges, and industry changes have marked his path — yet he continues to create. -
Embrace your instrument
His quote “My bass is my weapon” underscores seeing one’s craft as a tool of identity and influence. -
Question assumptions
Whether about politics, history, or culture, he demonstrates intellectual curiosity and skepticism — for better or worse.
Conclusion
Tim Commerford is more than a bassist: he is a provocateur, a musical voice with conviction, and an artist who has evolved without losing his core. From the explosive energy of Rage Against the Machine to newer ventures like Future User and Wakrat, his work continues to challenge and provoke.