grandson's Spark Is Rage Against The Machine's The Battle Of Los Angeles

Author: Adam Unze
Published: Wed 03 Sep 2025
Episode Link: https://shows.acast.com/66588f09a496ae0012140ac3/episodes/grandsons-spark-is-rage-against-the-machines-the-battle-of-l

Critically acclaimed singer-songwriter grandson joins Adam to explore his musical spark: Rage Against the Machine’s legendary album The Battle of Los Angeles. Grandson shares how this politically charged, genre-blending rock album influenced his journey from hip-hop-loving Canadian teen to international hitmaker—breaking down the record’s impact on his identity, artistry, and activism.

What’s Inside

Musical Origin Story: Grandson reveals how rock, rap, and guitar-driven hip-hop led him to Rage Against the Machine—and why The Battle of Los Angeles gave him permission to express vulnerability and anger authentically.
Album Analysis: The discussion unpacks the complexities and evolution behind Rage’s third album, its uncompromising sound, and the creative rifts and powerful clarity that defined its production.
Artistry and Activism: Grandson connects the explosive energy and political urgency of Rage’s music to his own career, from shaping his songwriting to inspiring civic engagement and progressive causes.
Legacy and Motivation: Learn why The Battle of Los Angeles continues to be a call to action for listeners, pushing them to “get off the sidelines” and find agency, purpose, and community—even in the face of failure or industry pressure.

About Grandson

Grandson is a boundary-pushing artist and activist, known for his fusion of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. His breakthrough singles “Blood // Water” and “Dirty” turned him into a global sensation, and his bold lyricism has fueled collaborations with Tom Morello, Travis Barker, and other icons. Grandson’s records and electrifying live shows tackle urgent themes—from political upheaval to mental health—embodying the kind of social conviction that Rage Against the Machine pioneered. This tone is especially prevalent on his third album Inertia.

About The Battle of Los Angeles

Released in 1999, The Battle of Los Angeles is Rage Against the Machine’s Grammy-winning third studio album. Its incendiary lyrics, innovative genre mashups, and relentless energy cemented Rage’s legacy as both musical and political disruptors. Featuring classics like “Guerrilla Radio,” “Calm Like A Bomb,” and “Testify,” the album remains a staple of protest, self-expression, and musical rebellion.

Why Listen?

A must-hear for fans of Rage Against the Machine, political music, and genre-blending rock.
Grandson’s perspective is motivational, raw, and deeply personal—essential for music lovers, creators, and activists.
The conversation explores how inspiration, courage, and self-expression tie art to real-world action.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

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