Diane fronts Rage Against the Machine tribute band
- A Minnesota band is once again channeling the energy of Rage Against the Machine, tapping into the band's politically charged anthems.
- Diane explained her ability to step into the role of Rage Against the Machine's vocalist, zack de la Rocha, stems from her experience covering hip-hop artists such as...
- “I’ve always had a good skill for matching rappers rhythmically,” she said.
Minnesota Band Revives Rage against the Machine’s Fire
A Minnesota band is once again channeling the energy of Rage Against the Machine, tapping into the band’s politically charged anthems. The group’s frontwoman, Diane, a rapper-turned-rocker, said she feels compelled to revisit the music amid the current political climate.
Diane explained her ability to step into the role of Rage Against the Machine’s vocalist, zack de la Rocha, stems from her experience covering hip-hop artists such as Jay-Z and OutKast. She believes her rhythmic skills translate well to de la Rocha’s style.
“I’ve always had a good skill for matching rappers rhythmically,” she said. “Zach is as great as any MC, and he’s excellent about syncopation and cadence, which are things I think I’m good at.”
Diane had shifted her focus to original music for the past five years. However, current events have inspired her return to the Rage Against the Machine cover band.
“With everything going on with Trump right now, it just felt like everything was aligned to do it again,” she said.
Rage against the Machine, known for its politically charged lyrics and hits like “Killing in the name” and “Guerrilla Radio,” last performed in Minnesota at the Target Center during the 2008 Republican National Convention. While never formally aligned with a political party, the Los Angeles band consistently railed against fascism, racism, corporate greed, and human rights infringements.
Diane said Friday’s show is not just about political expression. “Their music also happens to be very fun to play,” she said.
What’s next
The band plans to continue performing Rage Against the Machine’s music, using it as a vehicle for political commentary and musical expression in future shows.