Middle school was a time for rebellion for me, and anything that had a parental advisory sticker was game in my book.� When some of my friends mentioned a CD called "Rage Against the Machine," I figured the name in itself would suffice.� But needless to say despite all my rebellious years I'm still listening to Rage Against the Machine.� Mainly because while all the other bands I listen to I grow tired of, Rage continues on their path of integrity in their song writing.� While other bands fade out, die out, or change for the worse, Rage's change, if any, are always for the better.� They continue to fight for worthy causes, even today in this capitolism-dominated world.

As a member of a band myself, I try not to emulate, but to convey the pure emotion that portrays itself as Rage Against the Machine.� Our style is different, but Rage has influenced us in many ways.� For instance, we now play benefit shows for different but just was worthy causes such as the prevention of child abuse and the animal protection league.� Opening for national bands is always a highlight for our band, but it is our dream to open for Rage Against the Machine.� I myself, at least, consider opening for the past national bands as a "warm-up" to opening for Rage.� Although I know there are no official dates as of now, I can't help but check the tour dates section in hope every few days.� When I watch the RATM video, I can always count on it to get me motivated before a show watching 250,000 people jumping up and down to the sound of one band.� Of course the lyrics by Zack are always taken to heart, but the hard, slicing sounds emitting from Tom Morello's Marshall support every word.� Not to mention his intricate solos.