Rage Against The Machine Announces End to Live Performances

Rage Against The Machine (RATM) enthusiasts seeking a live reunion are in for disappointment, as drummer Brad Wilk has declared that the iconic ’90s rock band will not be hitting the stage again. The announcement was widely shared through RATM’s official social media page, X (formerly Twitter), on Wednesday (Jan. 3), based on comments made by Wilk in a news story published by Blabbermouth.

Taking to Instagram, Wilk expressed regret for those anticipating new tour dates, stating, “I want to let you know that RATM (Tim, Zack, Tom, and I) will not be touring or playing live again. I’m sorry for those of you who have been waiting for this to happen. I really wish it was…”

Notably, RATM’s official post, as of the current writing, has not been shared on their Facebook or Instagram accounts. The announcement lacks details regarding any potential recording projects, and bandmates Zack de la Rocha, Tim Commerford, and Tom Morello have not provided additional comments.

In 2023, RATM was finally inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame after five attempts. Internal conflicts within the band were evident at the induction ceremony, where Morello was the sole member in attendance.

During their initial run from 1991 to 2000, RATM released four albums, with live reunions occurring in 2007-2011 and 2019. The latter was marked by interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and de la Rocha’s leg injury.

Notable albums like “Evil Empire” (1996) and “The Battle Of Los Angeles” (1999) both reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200. RATM made eight appearances on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay, with three top 10 hits in 2000, including “Guerrilla Radio.”

RATM’s signature 1992 track, “Killing In The Name,” resonated with audiences for its power and fury. Upon their Rock Hall induction, the band highlighted their activism, recalling incidents such as shutting down the NY Stock Exchange and suing the US State Department for using their music in Guantanamo Bay.

Despite their confrontational stance, RATM made U.K. chart history in 2009 when a public campaign propelled “Killing In The Name” to the coveted Christmas No. 1 spot, disrupting the tradition of the X Factor winner claiming the prize.