December 20, 2009 19:26

Rage Against The Machine: 'This is a victory over sterile pop'

Frontman Zack De La Rocha also confirms band will make good on a promise to play free UK show

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Rage Against The Machine have declared their Christmas Number One a victory over a "very sterile pop monopoly" after beating The X Factor's Joe McElderry's to the top spot.

'Killing In The Name' beat McElderry's cover of Miley Cyrus' 'The Climb' by 50,000 sales to claim 2009's festive chart topping crown.

Speaking upon hearing the news to Radio 1's Scott Mills, Rage frontman Zack De La Rocha said: "We're great, we're very very ecstatic and excited about the song reaching the Number One spot and I just want to say we want to thank everyone for participating in this incredible, organic grass roots campaign.

"It's more about the spontaneous action taken by young people in the UK to topple this very sterile pop monopoly. When young people decide to take action they can make what's seemingly impossible, possible."

He also confirmed that part of the proceeds will be donated to the homeless charity Shelter and they will make good on a promise to play a free concert in the UK next year.

"We would like to congratulate Joe and Simon (Cowell) on the Number Two single," he added.

"We intend to make right on that promise (to play) and we will get together in 2010. We will definitely be there to celebrate with everyone in the UK."

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