Tim McIlrath ( born November 3 , 1979 ) is the lead singer , rhythm guitarist , co-composer , main-lyricist and along with bassist Joe Principe the founder for the American punk rock band Rise Against . Timothy `` Tim '' James McIlrath ( born November 3 , 1979 ) is an American rock musician . He is the lead singer , rhythm guitarist , songwriter and co-founder for the American punk rock band Rise Against .