'Killing in the Name' Reaches 1 Billion Spotify Streams
13 Jan 2025
This weekend, the political anthem 'Killing in the Name' surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify. The lead single from Rage Against the Machine's self-titled debut album, the song was written in response to the 1992 Los Angeles riots following the beating of Rodney King at the hands of L.A. police officers.
The song's unapologetic condemnation of authority and call for defiance struck a chord worldwide, resonating with marginalised communities and activists pushing for social change. Its explosive fusion of rock, punk, and hip-hop elements not only defined Rage Against the Machine's distinctive sound but also influenced a new wave of politically charged music.
'Thanks to all those who listened to it: those who love it, those who hate it, and those that have enjoyed it without understanding it. Righteous proof that rebel music and irony are alive and well.' - Tom Morello
It is our great honour to have worked with Tom Morello on his edition,
Whatever It Takes, which documents his early years through to forming Rage Against the Machine, working with Chris Cornell in Audioslave, his solo work, and on to Prophets of Rage. Available as a bookstore edition and as a signed limited edition, you can secure your copy at
TomMorelloBook.com.