Daron Malakian Surprises Tribute Band in Chicago, Performs “Cigaro”

CHICAGO, August 31, 2025 - In an unexpected turn of events, System of a Down guitarist Daron Malakian made a spontaneous appearance at Chicago’s Cubby Bear venue late Saturday night, joining a local tribute band for a surprise rendition of the band’s classic track “Cigaro.”

According to eyewitnesses, Malakian and a companion were strolling near Wrigley Field after dinner when they heard the unmistakable opening riff of System of a Down’s “Needles” coming from inside the bar. Drawn by the sound, Malakian entered to find PEEP HOLE: Tribute to System of a Down performing onstage. Without prior notice, he climbed onto the stage, took the microphone, and led the group through “Cigaro,” much to the delight and astonishment of both the band members and the audience.

After the impromptu performance, Malakian shook hands with the tribute band, posed for photos with fans, and exited the venue almost as quickly as he arrived, leaving attendees buzzing over the once-in-a-lifetime moment. In a social media post, he described the encounter as “one of the coolest moments I’ve ever had,” noting that none of it was planned and that the odds of stumbling upon a tribute band covering his own music were “so slim, probably had a better chance of getting struck by lightning”.

This surprise appearance comes on the eve of System of a Down’s highly anticipated stadium shows at Soldier Field on August 31 and September 1, where they will headline with support from Avenged Sevenfold. Tickets for the concerts have been in high demand since the band kicked off their limited-run North American stadium tour earlier this month.