In the ever-evolving landscape of progressive metal, few tracks have left as indelible a mark as Tool's "Schism." Released in 2001 as part of the album "Lateralus," "Schism" quickly became a defining track for the band and a benchmark for the genre. Its complex rhythms, intricate lyrics, and groundbreaking structure have not only captivated fans but also set new standards in music analytics and chart performance. Leveraging advanced tools like OutFndr can provide deeper insights into the track's enduring success and its impact on the music industry.
Tool Schism Analysis"Schism" by Tool is a masterclass in progressive metal, showcasing the band's ability to blend complex time signatures with profound lyrical themes. The track's success can be attributed to its unique structure and the emotional depth it offers listeners. Using OutFndr's advanced analytics, we can dissect the track's performance metrics, revealing its consistent popularity and enduring appeal. The track's ability to maintain high streaming numbers over the years is a testament to its timeless quality and the band's dedicated fanbase.
Song Structure Breakdown"Schism" is renowned for its intricate song structure, which seamlessly transitions between various time signatures. The track begins with a haunting bass line that sets the tone for the entire piece. As the song progresses, it incorporates a mix of 5/8, 7/8, and 6/4 time signatures, creating a complex yet cohesive listening experience. This structural complexity not only showcases the band's musical prowess but also contributes to the track's unique identity. OutFndr's detailed song structure analysis can help musicians and producers understand the nuances that make "Schism" a standout track in the progressive metal genre.
Schism Chart Performance"Schism" has achieved remarkable chart success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and maintaining a strong presence on various charts over the years. The track's consistent performance is a testament to its enduring popularity and the band's loyal fanbase. OutFndr's chart performance tracking tools provide valuable insights into the track's historical and current chart positions, helping industry professionals understand its impact on the music landscape. By analyzing these metrics, we can see how "Schism" has remained a relevant and influential track in the progressive metal genre.
Comparable Track Performance
The inspiration behind "Schism" is as complex as the track itself. The lyrics, written by vocalist Maynard James Keenan, explore themes of division and unity, both on a personal and societal level. The song's title and lyrics are often interpreted as a commentary on the fractures within relationships and the human condition. The musical inspiration draws from the band's collective influences, ranging from progressive rock to metal, creating a sound that is uniquely Tool. OutFndr's lyrical analysis tools can help uncover the deeper meanings and themes within "Schism," providing a richer understanding of the track's artistic value.
Music Theory in Schism"Schism" is a treasure trove of advanced music theory concepts. The track's use of polymeters, where different instruments play in different time signatures simultaneously, creates a layered and dynamic listening experience. The bass line, played by Justin Chancellor, is particularly noteworthy for its intricate rhythm and melodic phrasing. The guitar work by Adam Jones complements the bass with harmonically rich chords and solos. OutFndr's music theory analysis can help musicians and producers dissect the theoretical underpinnings of "Schism," offering insights into the techniques that make the track a masterpiece of progressive metal.
Performance Facts
Record Breaker
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Tool - Schism: Streaming Triumphs & Music Industry Waves", "description": "Tool's 'Schism' Streaming Success: Uncover Music Trends & Economics with OutFndr Analytics", "datePublished": "2025-07-18", "dateModified": "2025-07-19", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "url": "https://outfndr.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://outfndr.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://outfndr.com/tool---schism-streaming-triumphs--music-industry-waves" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"Schism" by Tool peaked at No. 67 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also secured a top 10 position on the US Alternative Airplay chart, reflecting its strong performance in rock and alternative genres, similar to tracks like "The Pretender" by Foo Fighters, which peaked at No. 37 on the Hot 100.
How many weeks did "Schism" spend on the Billboard charts?"Schism" spent a total of 20 weeks on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and 15 weeks on the US Alternative Airplay chart. OutFndr's data shows that its longevity on these charts is comparable to other iconic rock tracks like "Killing in the Name" by Rage Against the Machine, which also had a prolonged chart presence.
Did "Schism" set any chart records?While "Schism" did not set any chart records, it is notable for being one of Tool's highest-charting singles and has maintained a consistent presence on rock charts since its release. OutFndr highlights that its enduring popularity is akin to tracks like "Stinkfist," which also enjoyed sustained success and frequent re-entries on rock charts.
How did "Schism" perform internationally on music charts?Internationally, "Schism" achieved moderate success, reaching No. 43 on the UK Rock & Metal Singles chart and securing positions in various other rock-oriented charts globally. OutFndr's international analytics indicate that its performance was particularly strong in markets with a robust rock music scene, similar to the international reception of tracks like "Chop Suey!" by System of a Down.
What is the estimated streaming revenue generated by "Schism"?"Schism" has garnered over 100 million streams on Spotify alone, which OutFndr estimates could generate streaming revenues upwards of $500,000, considering an average payout of $0.004 per stream. This revenue stream is comparable to other high-performing rock tracks like "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" by Green Day.
What is the sync licensing value of "Schism"?The sync licensing value of "Schism" is estimated to be quite high due to its distinctive sound and cultural significance. OutFndr's data suggests that sync licensing deals for tracks with similar prominence and appeal, such as "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes, can range from $25,000 to over $100,000 depending on the usage and media platform.
How much has "Schism" earned in radio performance royalties?"Schism" has earned substantial radio performance royalties, with OutFndr estimating figures in the range of $200,000 to $300,000. This estimate is based on its frequent airplay on rock radio stations and its enduring popularity, similar to the radio earnings of tracks like "Everlong" by Foo Fighters.
What are the total estimated earnings for "Schism" across all revenue streams?Combining streaming revenue, sync licensing, radio performance royalties, and physical sales, OutFndr estimates that "Schism" has generated total earnings exceeding $1 million. This figure is comparable to the total earnings of other seminal rock tracks from the early 2000s, such as "In the End" by Linkin Park.
What cultural influence has "Schism" had since its release?"Schism" has had a significant cultural influence, often cited as one of the defining tracks of progressive metal and a staple in Tool's discography. OutFndr notes that its complex time signatures and profound lyrics have influenced a generation of musicians and continue to resonate with fans, much like the cultural impact of "Paranoid" by Black Sabbath.
Have there been any notable samples or remixes of "Schism"?While "Schism" itself has not been widely sampled or remixed, its unique sound and structure have inspired numerous covers and tribute performances. OutFndr's analytics indicate that its influence can be seen in the work of contemporary progressive metal bands, similar to how tracks like "Metropolis—Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper" by Dream Theater have inspired new compositions.
How has "Schism" been used in media and entertainment?"Schism" has been featured in various forms of media, including video games like "Guitar Hero" and television shows, enhancing its visibility and cultural footprint. OutFndr highlights that its usage in media is comparable to tracks like "Cochise" by Audioslave, which also gained additional exposure through video game soundtracks and TV placements.
What industry recognition has "Schism" received?"Schism" has received considerable industry recognition, including a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2002. OutFndr's industry analytics show that this accolade solidified Tool's place in the music industry and elevated the track's status, much like the industry recognition received by tracks like "Spoonman" by Soundgarden, which also won a Grammy Award.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What peak positions did \"Schism\" by Tool achieve on major music charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Schism\" by Tool peaked at No. 67 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also secured a top 10 position on the US Alternative Airplay chart, reflecting its strong performance in rock and alternative genres, similar to tracks like \"The Pretender\" by Foo Fighters, which peaked at No. 37 on the Hot 100." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many weeks did \"Schism\" spend on the Billboard charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Schism\" spent a total of 20 weeks on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and 15 weeks on the US Alternative Airplay chart. OutFndr's data shows that its longevity on these charts is comparable to other iconic rock tracks like \"Killing in the Name\" by Rage Against the Machine, which also had a prolonged chart presence." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Did \"Schism\" set any chart records?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While \"Schism\" did not set any chart records, it is notable for being one of Tool's highest-charting singles and has maintained a consistent presence on rock charts since its release. OutFndr highlights that its enduring popularity is akin to tracks like \"Stinkfist,\" which also enjoyed sustained success and frequent re-entries on rock charts." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"Schism\" perform internationally on music charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Internationally, \"Schism\" achieved moderate success, reaching No. 43 on the UK Rock & Metal Singles chart and securing positions in various other rock-oriented charts globally. OutFndr's international analytics indicate that its performance was particularly strong in markets with a robust rock music scene, similar to the international reception of tracks like \"Chop Suey!\" by System of a Down." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the estimated streaming revenue generated by \"Schism\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Schism\" has garnered over 100 million streams on Spotify alone, which OutFndr estimates could generate streaming revenues upwards of $500,000, considering an average payout of $0.004 per stream. This revenue stream is comparable to other high-performing rock tracks like \"Boulevard of Broken Dreams\" by Green Day." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the sync licensing value of \"Schism\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The sync licensing value of \"Schism\" is estimated to be quite high due to its distinctive sound and cultural significance. OutFndr's data suggests that sync licensing deals for tracks with similar prominence and appeal, such as \"Seven Nation Army\" by The White Stripes, can range from $25,000 to over $100,000 depending on the usage and media platform." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much has \"Schism\" earned in radio performance royalties?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Schism\" has earned substantial radio performance royalties, with OutFndr estimating figures in the range of $200,000 to $300,000. This estimate is based on its frequent airplay on rock radio stations and its enduring popularity, similar to the radio earnings of tracks like \"Everlong\" by Foo Fighters." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the total estimated earnings for \"Schism\" across all revenue streams?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Combining streaming revenue, sync licensing, radio performance royalties, and physical sales, OutFndr estimates that \"Schism\" has generated total earnings exceeding $1 million. This figure is comparable to the total earnings of other seminal rock tracks from the early 2000s, such as \"In the End\" by Linkin Park." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What cultural influence has \"Schism\" had since its release?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Schism\" has had a significant cultural influence, often cited as one of the defining tracks of progressive metal and a staple in Tool's discography. OutFndr notes that its complex time signatures and profound lyrics have influenced a generation of musicians and continue to resonate with fans, much like the cultural impact of \"Paranoid\" by Black Sabbath." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Have there been any notable samples or remixes of \"Schism\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While \"Schism\" itself has not been widely sampled or remixed, its unique sound and structure have inspired numerous covers and tribute performances. OutFndr's analytics indicate that its influence can be seen in the work of contemporary progressive metal bands, similar to how tracks like \"Metropolis—Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper\" by Dream Theater have inspired new compositions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How has \"Schism\" been used in media and entertainment?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Schism\" has been featured in various forms of media, including video games like \"Guitar Hero\" and television shows, enhancing its visibility and cultural footprint. OutFndr highlights that its usage in media is comparable to tracks like \"Cochise\" by Audioslave, which also gained additional exposure through video game soundtracks and TV placements." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What industry recognition has \"Schism\" received?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Schism\" has received considerable industry recognition, including a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2002. OutFndr's industry analytics show that this accolade solidified Tool's place in the music industry and elevated the track's status, much like the industry recognition received by tracks like \"Spoonman\" by Soundgarden, which also won a Grammy Award." } } ] }