The Interrogation of Disturbed's David Draiman

Under the lights in a pitch black room, #Disturbed vocalist #DavidDraiman sat for an #Interrogation with Graham Hartmann (@grahamwire), answering for his past and present. Armed with a case file filled with two decades worth of exhibits, we pressed Draiman on past quotes, his perception of self, Disturbed’s new #Evolution album and much more.
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[@lisadonahoo9438]

I am nearly 79 yrs of age. I never listen to heavy metal (I think that is the type of music Disturbed plays) so never heard of David Draiman. Then, I happened upon his singing The Sound Of Silence! I was totally amazed! I listened to it several times and could not believe the difference of Mr. Draiman's version. It brought tears. I also watched his rendition of the song with lyrics and the visual scenes with it! Again, amazed! I just watched the interview and found Mr. Draiman to be a well spoken gentleman and seemed to answer the questions quite honestly. I enjoyed the interview. I will say, since hearing his rendition of The Sound Of Silence, I have been trying to find out more about this gentleman. I have also tried to listen to some of the music of Disturbed, but have trouble bearing what the words are due to the loud music. I will keep trying though, as I enjoy listening to many different types of music. I, myself can play no musical instrument or even carry a tune! You have a wonderful voice and range. Maybe you will record another oldie at a later time. Thank you. I am sorry this is so long, had to say it even if you never read it.

[@lisadonahoo9438]

PS: this was written by Sharon Wilson, mother of Lisa Donahoo. She played my note. Thanks again.

[@lisadonahoo9438]

PPS: correction: my daughter okayed this note. Thanks.

[@jennyeknox8037]

David was educated in rabbinical schools and graduated from Loyola with a law degree. Search for the song titles and lyrics to read their words. David is incredibly spiritual and there is light in the darkness of Disturbed's heavy metal music.

[@kylewilliams450]

I read it sir. His type of music is not for everyone. However, he is a true artist, dedicated to his chosen art. Good for you for listening rather than just hearing what he has to say. I'm glad his musical talents reached you even though you're an entirely different demographic. I hope it proves what an amazing range of talents this gentleman displays.

[@angelgabriel4642]

Read the lyrics and you will understand better. English is not my first language but I've been listening to Disturbed since their first album, I needed help with the lyrics.

[@daredevilseyes7493]

Man you can really tell he had a close friendship with Chester, his pause and voice slightly changing seeing that picture, the hurt was still there.

[@mnewby82]

I stii can't believe Chester's gone

[@TheAustin2010]

The hurt never really leaves. Just goes numb

[@sloedwn7509]

They really did. I saw them both at Ozzfest 01, Chester and Mike were on the side of the stage rocking out when Disturbed was playing their set, Dave kept going over to them and they all would start laughing hysterically. Then during LP, Dave and Danny were chilling stage side during their set just drinking beers and joking around with them all too. Those years were the greatest, the community was soooo damn close. The first 6 or 7 years of Ozzfest were really amazing, I wish everyone got to experience those times.

[@Chaotic-Demise77]

@@sloedwn7509 I did and I had a blast, just like one big family.

[@firewheels90]

"Society treats people who are different like monsters." LOVE THIS, David!

[@ArkaeaFCL3]

So damn true. David is so intelligent and aware.

[@ndhickson3599]

One of the truest things I’ve ever heard

[@bm625]

Is he talking about Donald Trump? Before anyone gets triggered, think about it. Donald Trump is unlike any president we've ever had and look how he's treated.

[@qdawg8291]

BM exactly. Anybody who’s not a liberal snowflake is treated like shit. So I agree.

[@panzermensch1577]

Yes agreed! I walk around school in a trench coat, black, ankle length. But, I always have it opened. And I've worn it for two years and I'm still seen as "School shooter". I can't blame them for it, to an extent. But with what David said, I agree. People look at different people as things, not even lesser humans. And it's BS. But, rock on brothers and sisters, Forever! Ignis Imperia and remember to be Disturbed! 🤘🏻🔥

[@daves.7150]

I enjoy this man talking as much as I do his singing

[@jasonweiderhold3]

Well said!

[@michaeldixon5910]

He's got such a mellow tone to him, it's hard to imagine him singing down with the sickness lol

[@meghanschuler4739]

Same. I love David. He is from my same side of Illinois, and my uncle and he are friends. And, I met him once and told him about how he saved my life as a kid bc I'd been a sex trafficked and severely abused kid with no love, and his music saved me. And, he was so fucking nice to me. Just very caring and attentive and made me feel like I was (at the moment) the only person in the world that mattered. So kind. It made me love him so much more. Even 15 or so years later as a grown woman.

[@ahmadtheaviationlover1937]

Hell yea, this guy is just awesome!!

[@robinvasquez93]

I love Draiman’s responses. So insightful and straight forward. Love him

[@Sandyb121770]

MR. Pepe ~ why do you say that. He’s genius and I Love him

[@jessepusatero5511]

Ah yes the thought provoking "as high as a giraffe' s ass" 😂

[@theroadnottaken_]

I think insightfulness is to be expected as he graduated with a triple major in Business Administration, Philosophy, and Political Science. :)

[@ontherunjg]

He is a good guy with a big heart, extremely intelligent and very transparent. Talking to him is like talking to your best friend.

[@miguelrios4431]

“I was Higher than a giraffe’s ass’’ David Draiman-2018

[@emilymatthews2990]

I chuckled at that. 😂

[@mikoc11]

EPIC!

[@bryanhickernell7189]

Same

[@ahmadtheaviationlover1937]

Hahahaha

[@yamahakid450f]

I prefer higher than Giraffe pussy myself

[@xnax1993]

I hope Draiman does an audio book at some point.. His voice is just so great, I can't get enough of it

[@shockthenorth3316]

He is 150% correct in everything he said about social media.

[@Donna677.]

He is very intelligent, well educated and insightful. I just like him. Appreciate his honesty too.

[@JohnWeigmann]

"Social media has become a Highschool playground where the challenge is what idiot can come up with the best insult, and end up being congratulated for it." Well spoken.

[@sare6320]

Grew up with Linkin Park and Disturbed. My teenage years were better than todays music. Missing Chester so much. RIP Chazzy ❤ And i love David's voice so much

[@waywardgoddess1153]

Linkin Park/Disturbed was the soundtrack to my life in high school! (Eminem too lol)

[@dystopianguy1572]

Same Here.

[@trentsmith8531]

Samee

[@Aashishkebab]

There is still good music today.

[@THEBIGGESTSCUMBAG]

SAME

[@MIZORAM_mafaka_hnamte]

_I Love this New Idea_ _Hats off to Loudwire... once again_

[@schmetterling2169]

MIZORAM - Mafaka Hnamte mimicked from vogues lie detector test about celebrities careers

[@thehappyparamedic]

I am not ashamed to say that I recently saw Disturbed (evolution) that I had to hold back tears at times. His compassion for mental health and addiction is beautiful.

[@Chaotic-Demise77]

Dehumanize, Darkness & The Reason to Fight gets me every time....

[@TyDie85]

AWESOME interview. David Draiman is such an intelligent and caring person. And his voice isn't just deep, but also soothing. I wish I had that voice!

[@DarkDreamsAndMoonlitNights]

My heart hurt when he spoke about the struggles and losses himself and his bandmates have suffered. To hear his regret about Chester was also a hit to the heart. Sometimes you never know how much someone is suffering until it is too late. You can stand by the person's grave and weep, but no amount of tears brings back that person. So if you feel that yourself or someone you care about is struggling, don't stay silent. You have a voice buried under your pain. Fight back and find your voice. Let yourself be heard. You're worth it. You deserve to be loved and respected. But most of all...you deserve to be happy.

[@Chaotic-Demise77]

Well said! 👏

[@abnerjuarez6442]

I couldn't hold myself after seeing that photo of Chester. We all miss you Chester 😔😣😢😭

[@sponnorcerling7188]

Makes my heart sink every time

[@keysersoze660]

Chester was talented, with zero creativity. He was a one trick pony. Can anyone argue that he had any sense of diversity in his music, or was ever able to adapt in the least? I know I will be crucified by Linkin Park lovers, but they got stale after a year and kicked a dead horse until he killed himself. I don't mean to be disrespectful, but they sold out since the very beginning. Every two months a DJ comes on the radio "Brand new song from Linkin Park", nothing different since the song before that, and before that, and before that, and before that, and before tha, and before that, and before that, and before that

[@rb13atgm]

​@@keysersoze660 ok Im sorry, but if you actually think that chester had zero creativity or that linkin park as a whole had the same sound every album, then you are quite literally a tone deaf moron. they changed their sound with every album, always adapting, always trying new things and experimenting with new sounds and seeing what worked and what didn't. their music has evolved over their career in a way most bands don't ever come close to achieving. saying that every song and every album was the same, unoriginal, uncreative crap shows that you have no musical understanding whatsoever. go listen to some mumble rap. that suits you better

[@abnerjuarez6442]

Funny thing and awesome thing is they got Chester involved doing a cover of Walk by Pantera

[@emilymatthews2990]

Same. Didn't cry but definitely made me wonder who was cutting onions. 😢

[@Justdat799]

David is such a down to earth guy

[@wendywhitney8381]

Amazing vocalist. Such an intelligent and honest man. Nice

[@Maulth]

You couldn't be more correct about Social Media. They are the cancer of society. Loved the interview, Draiman is one of my all-time favorite people.

[@CYGNIUS]

I want to see this, but with PHIL ANSELMO as the interrogator.

[@itatsuuchiha96]

YES!

[@ArkaeaFCL3]

Lolololol that would be awesome

[@FlyingV555]

CYGNIUS yes. Have him interrogate Tom Morello.

[@jamesdragonforce]

Flying V or maybe Dave could interrogate Tom.

[@jamesdragonforce]

That would be... Disturbing.

[@alexharper5660]

"You do remember what happened after Metallica cut their hair, don't you?" XD

[@randith87]

Load was a great album... I dont know why it gets such a bad wrap... Now Reload and St.Anger wasn't good, but everything else they have done is amazing. Also it's understandable because they were going through a hard time during that era.

[@AniW2x4]

@@randith87 I agree, but I honestly still really do like and respect Reload and St Anger. I think they're both solid in a different way and they are deeply personal and very poignant. Load is the strongest of the three, but I really like and respect the other two.

[@smileysatanson3404]

yeah but that wasnt such a big change XD

[@johnbraucher1499]

Yewh and those people are retarded and missed out in a lot of great things. Mistakes equal experience and understanding the world around you. Whether HAIR mattered in the first place or not, there are more 6o everybody than their hair. I think people back then just didn't have anything to bitch about, so they started a trend on hating them for their fucking HAIR, instead of growing and maturing WITH them. Close mindedness is the disease and apparently there is no cure.

[@Discoveringbandsbymichaelnagy]

This is an epic interview! :-)

[@pasteycracker]

Epic up until the point where he shuns Draiman. Failure to recognizing a God.

[@joekirkham9891]

I like this shit. I forget how whimsical and interesting David is. Also nice interview Graham

[@vt6122]

Wow, such an intelligent, humble and beautifull person David is. A very good interview!

[@BoonTobias80]

"Society treats people that are different like monsters" spot on.

[@thisistheescapeplan]

Literally every interview has done in the last 12 years, has only made me like both him and disturbed more and more

[@inheaven5486]

David has a ton of wisdom. He really pours into his lyrics. So much deep meaning. Beautiful stuff!

[@MathewJC25]

This is truly why he is the greatest role model for Rock. Not just his talents, but his messages, David as a human being, as a person who truly wants what is best for people. There is no BS in this man. As a long time fan and truly who I believe the greatest rock band, I look up to you David and Disturbed. Thank you for your words. Meeting you four was one of the greatest days of my life. I hope I have the opportunity again soon. D1ForLife.

[@gavinkyle9252]

Is it weird that I listen to him talk so I can sleep

[@Makeupvice]

Liked this before i even watched. Davids interviews are always very eloquent and he is so well spoken

[@ProAndSo]

David is so well spoken.

[@inheaven5486]

Bro you can't sing that good and be that nice a person and not have a few crazy jealous haters. You're a good guy Mr. D.

[@denisbehappy]

God I wish that in one day I can see David face to face. He's such an awesome guy.

[@GodzillaBoi-wn2ud]

This man is a true hero, he’s smart, truthful, and a total badass😆

[@Crazelord91]

I love that he's so open about being stoned when he writes. I don't believe art needs to be made under the influence or in great pain, but often they can lead to some really interesting things Personally I've written some songs I'm quite proud of stoned and some I'd be embarrassed to show people looking back on it. Same with things I wrote sober

[@limlaith]

This is an absolutely fantastic interview and a great series! I can't understand how I missed this interview for this long. Mr. Draiman is so thoughtful and well spoken, his answers so humble and erudite. I have the utmost respect for him. I am so glad that he seems to have found peace in his life and his soul. I love Disturbed's entire body of work to this day.

[@patrickdoran180]

"Darkness" is an incredible song, and proved David could sing long before "The Sound of Silence".

[@miguelgalicia9180]

David’s such a fantastic guy, i have mad respect for his music and philosophy on life as a whole. Forever a Disturbed fan 🤘🏼

[@sparda7786]

So when do they start eating the wings?? Still not sure who the guy with hair is :/

[@williamengel741]

lmaooo would love if he went on first we feast

[@JarthenGreenmeadow]

That would be awesome.

[@paultoney4267]

sparda7786 that made me laugh out loud lmao

[@TheHellZone99]

YES!

[@julie79au]

Awesome interview!! Love the new album!! I have been a fan for many, many years and you never disappoint!! Thank you so much for your music!!

[@taitacheetahbm]

Omg! Loved this interview! This channel is awesome! And as for being targeted, all I can say is that ppl who are too different or have a brilliant inner light (like David Draiman) tend to be targeted wherever they go, very often by the worst kind of ppl. That has to do with human behavior, with very strong instincts hardwired in ourselves. It doesn't matter how reasoning someone is if he/she is unable to understand and learn with the inner "human animal". Anybody can fall into the sins of jealousy, hatred, ignorance, etc, and all of us end up doing it at some point in our lives. That's why it's so important to learn with our mistakes and have self criticism. David is one of the persons who better understands this, no wonder he speaks so much about it and dedicates so much time into spreading such powerful and relevant messages to the world! David Draiman is an excellent human being, an example to be followed, someone everybody can learn from. I personally identify myself A LOT with the band and with David's messages and person in A LOT of ways. I suffered from depression and anxiety since I was between 10-14 years old, and sadly was only able to really listen to Disturbed in the later years of my teens (I don't really know why, maybe cause I was stupid to think this kind of music was too heavy for me lol). Disturbed's musics ended up being one hell of a therapy in my worst moments and drepressive crisis (if anybody relates to this, you'll now how important and life saving this can be). But since I was never much into following and learning about the life of artists or public figures, I pretty much stayed oblivious to David Draiman's marvelous soul and personality till the new album (not even gonna talk about it, otherwise this message is going to get too big, but it's the best and most important album I have ever listened in my life, to be short). So, to finish this message, if you don't know much about Disturbed and David Draiman, either because it's not your kind of sound or because you had a bad impression for one reason or another, give it a try, give them a chance! They deserve a lot more appreciation then they already have! And you most likely not be disappointed and might even become a #disturbedone by the end of the day! 😎😃 🤘😈🤘

[@sheikh_syak]

More interviews/discussions in this style please!! They're really great

[@DamianJeanPerkins]

Beautiful honesty. Raw. Thank you Loudwire!

[@alistair1655]

This is great, please let this be a proper series!

[@CTheRevillusionS]

I’m not huge on Disturbed’s recent music but man I could listen to David Draiman talk about things for hours. He’s insightful as hell and has a soothing voice

[@pissedofftexan1205]

David looks a little Disturbed. Hehehe

[@hops2099x]

Spidey Webz ok dad

[@wiredforawhile3230]

No he's just high

[@chrismarquette8627]

Oh wah ah ah ah

[@theresamitchell461]

He's so amazingly truthful and honest and just full of valuable knowledge. He's truthful to the core,learned a lot watching these videos on loudwire. He seems like a really nice person to get to know,he puts his pants on one leg at a time like you and I and that's exactly how he talks and speaks.

[@natchez2012]

I would love for David Draiman to do a series of metal parenting vids.

[@revenant4131]

High quality interview my man, good stuff! David is still a legend.

[@TerryYoung-nb3hv]

Mr. Draiman - Thank you for your honesty, insight, talent, and ability to not only speak your truth but help me understand my own. Especially I want to thank you and your band "Disturbed" for your interpretation and execution of your vision of "The Sound of Silence." The power of it was amazing and brought me to tears. Thank you.

[@jakethefox9439]

“You hear me b**** now the interrogations over.” David Draiman-This Moment

[@shrimpofdeath5199]

A great interview. The journalist is obviously well-prepared and Draiman is very sincere and intelligent. Extremely enjoyable piece, you are all awesome, guys!

[@rardyprice7418]

A new brilliant and exciting concept here loudwire!!!! Love It! \m/ \m/

[@randommetalhead7]

This is the best Loudwire video so far imo.

[@alejandrodg82]

Epic !!! Love the format

[@velislavenchev5681]

Thanks for shaping parts of my life. I have grown to the same state of mind, cause I've experienced the same emotions. Their music kept me open, as well as the interview.

[@Leonardiski123]

I love this new format of interview haha

[@jsmirnoff77]

Great format!!! More like THIS, please!

[@bootymcnasteez2033]

This was awesome! More please

[@deniselisboa1]

His speaking voice is so relaxing to hear... he was talking about depression and suicide and I was like "hmmmm i'm gonna rest my eyes a bit now" xD luckly he didnt wake me up with a OWAH AH AH AH!!

[@LaguBudakKuching]

This is really good. Good job loudwire

[@1965KareBear]

I respect David very much. He is one of the most honest people I've ever seen. I'm 57 and I listen to heavy metal when in the mood. I also love classical. I can say I listen to little of it all. Disturbed is one of the best metal bands out there.

[@KimmyGibson]

I've heard so MANY times that Chester (and others) did not leave willingly. I'd hate to think that's true. Thank you for the interview. I'm enjoying getting to know this man, his band, and his music.

[@chrismondry921]

Its nice to see that you have grown up! I watched you in recent videos beforr old and you were out of hand!

[@jpdominator]

This man is a gem. Such wisdom in his years. So much respect for him.

[@DanieltheWolf76]

Beautiful interview. Was epic. Also hails to David Draiman. So honest

[@Humanumikey]

Dave has such a unique voice. He should narrate children audio books lol

[@LonewolfeE5]

I love David. He's always so raw and real with his responses. I know how he feels as far as regretting not being able to stop someone from crossing that line and it's taken me ages to get to the point where it's no longer a regret as much as an eye opener that lead me to be more proactive towards these things. I hope he doesn't beat himself up over it. He's made great progress in bringing a dark topic to light. Even going back to Inside the Fire he talks about the fact he knows personally how it feels to lose someone that way.

[@maxpalmer3212]

This was great I really enjoyed this

[@John_McDonnell_76]

When David Draiman talks, we should all listen. He’s so insightful and thoughtful and caring that the world needs more people like this leading a charge for positivity in this time.

[@reggiejopek8511]

Very down to earth kind of person, didn't know alot about David till watching and listening to the interviews on loudwire..well done

[@SilvershoresRecords]

Nice vidéo format!

[@avengedsoul6661]

More of these interrogation style interviews please. This is great!

[@thisisgreg2.0]

"Do you remember when Metallica cut their hair?" That had me dying haha. I love this idea of the interview. I really hope there is more of these to come. Graham does such a great job in this.

[@FunkyMonkey-ip4xy]

Great concept for an interview.

[@Tyear]

Very nice idea Loudwire, would love to see some of these 'retrospectives' or interrogations with some more 2000 era artists. If you could get Corey & Shawn there to talk about Slipknot I'd be ever grateful.

[@jonarosen]

Thanks for this interview, and the highly amusing wikipedia debunks. I learned a great deal about David, and my respect for the man has grown greatly

[@tx350z]

Thoroughly enjoyed this interview. Mr. Draiman is a well spoken, intelligent and talented man. Well done, Sir!

[@joydenault7794]

His interviews always show how intelligent and thoughtful he is. He has the most soothing voice. And removing the piercings just allows his good looks to shine with no distractions.

[@judgedby12orcarriedby69]

I got a chance to meet you thank you for shaking my hand. it was a long time ago. Still a huge fan. you guys saved my life more than once.

[@mvdbeatz4718]

I need more of these interviews!!

[@wjadam024]

I like this format!

[@danl.r2379]

Thank you David. I've listened to you for about 12 or so years now and I've learned so much about myself and the world around me. Not just the darkness of everything but also the light. Thank you.

[@mfar3016]

Who on earth could have venom forDavid Draiman? He’s the most authentic soul, and he seems to have a genuine empathy & kindness for others.

[@micheletrotter1945]

Love listening to David his voice is so relaxing. Love him and his voice singing and speaking.💜❤️

[@battleborn1055]

David is one of the most intelligent people I've ever heard speak in all honesty

[@Adi-megatron]

This guy looks like David Draiman!

[@IvanIvanov-qx5oz]

Nah. Draiman has the metal chin thingies

[@garyevans4516]

He is David Draiman you moron

[@thewiggy4098]

@@garyevans4516 Reeeeeeee

[@sethhansen4454]

Wooooooooshhhh

[@coolmoon4382]

@@garyevans4516 it was a joke.. because of him not having the piercings ... omg.. lol

[@ArkaeaFCL3]

Haha! This was cool. Please do more with other guests.

[@LilJustified]

I've always loved disturbed. And these interviews just help push the meaning behind his music. I've literally been listening to disturbed for over 10 years.

[@duhrelhall5501]

We need more of these!!!

[@dasharevv]

So much pain in his voice when he talks about Chester, he really misses him 💔

[@thriftyacorns3545]

He’s so incredible, I love his response to the piercings and that he’s proud and content with his accomplishments.

[@princessolmeca2933]

I will never get tired of hearing Draiman speak. He has such a soothing voice.

[@fightingfalconfan]

His music got me through all of high school and even to this day I still play it all on spotify. Love the music so much that when evolution was ready for pre-order I bought it. It was one of the few times I have ever purchased music. Especially in this day and age when we can just stream it on our mobile devices. I will always be a fan of their music. I may not like every single song they have made; but as a whole; love it and it has stood the test of time getting me through some heafty times and it actually helps me focus on my job better; put on some Disturbed; grab my tools and start wrenching on customers cars.

[@josearriaga1227]

I like the new format. It kept me engaged.

[@kevincrisp3759]

Seeing his reaction when he was shown the picture of him and chester was just really painful and emotional.

[@izzyandthesubterraneans370]

Such a great and honest guy! Well spoken. And well done Graham, you've really improved the quality of your interactions with interviewees\m/

[@gopchidagop969]

David is so kind and cute here! He spreads so much warm and shine, it seems that this dark room is goin to be filled with flowers :3

[@mikoc11]

This was fookin brilliant!

[@jeffroberts1649]

Very well done interview