The Sound of Silence - REACTION - Disturbed | BOP or FLOP

[@arien7564]

Welcome to the world of classically trained metal vocalists

[@rosemarie575]

Professionally trained singers seem to be a rarity in pop, it is the norm in Rock

[@hootilyhoot]

I believe he was a Jewish cantor or hazan.

[@Adralin1]

I had a flatmate in a death metal band, who was classically trained, him and the lead guitarist (also classically trained) would also go to opera..

[@angelaswanson1077]

He isn't a classically trained singer per se, but he is a trained Jewish cantor. He left the Jewish teachings he said because he didn't like having to be so disciplined by the rules.

[@thanosdarkseid8695]

he is trained and great but his band is NU METAL TRASH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and the death of true heavy metal very sad!!! ni metal desrtoyed minds of 1994 youth with korn..........

[@stephentaylor1031]

I’m 69. I used to hear the original Simon and Garfunkel song all the time growing up. I always though it was a great song…but kinda of light and fluffy. But this cover was phenomenal! And it brought out the true meaning of the original lyrics. It’s clearly a masterpiece!

[@travisyarbrough4033]

That was a warning of what was to be ...... Now we have to raise our voices.

[@ThereWasATime]

Back in 1964 it was a dream that he sang about and he hoped it wouldn't come true. Now Disturbed shows the anger that we ignored these words and it all came as he said: People talking without speaking, people hearing without listening - sounds like social media to me, and we all carry our "neon god" in our pockets now and turn to the light in our hand each time he reaches out to us.

[@richardmoonchild8061]

Amen.

[@reggiefokes6677]

I am 76 and you are so right.

[@MsMegF]

Exactly! Simon and Garfunkle made it sound like a light folk song. You didn’t really listen to the words. In this version, the music fits the lyrics.

[@snoopy1dan]

I’m 55 and I believe this is the most powerful song I’ve ever heard

[@quillscroll5835]

My favorite reactions to this song tend to be those with heavy emotions. I love watching people freak out over quality that's truly worthy of it. That's why I keep hunting for reactions to this song over and over again. However, your reaction is impressive for a different reason. Something that is honestly very rare. Go check out other reactions yourself to verify my claims. In particular, look for reactions to the theatrical release, because that is the only version that has the music video as well. The reason why I am impressed with you is because you took everything in. You paid attention to the lyrics, you examined what it might mean to you, you paid attention to the vocals and the instruments, and you examined the visual video itself and attempted to figure its symbolic meaning. You also compared it to a historical context. On nearly every level, you really paid attention to the message and disseminated it. Well DONE, Sir! Give yourself a pat on the back, along with my like that caused your 267 like.

[@SuffiReax]

Thank you very much!! I really appreciate all your kind words and your support I am glad you enjoyed the video, thanks for watching :)

[@quillscroll5835]

@André A Thank you for the compliment.

[@Honkeysausage1]

I would have liked to have seen the audience reactions who were at the Conan Show performance

[@LegitGamer21]

Right I have been enjoying watching a lot of reactions to this song too lol especially vocal coaches and how they almost all stop at the same places so you can guess when they will be stunned

[@williamcrowley5506]

Glad I am not the only one. Love seeing people’s reactions to this amazing song. You said it all, so I will just concur.

[@dennish3032]

Another reactors commentor said, The original sounds like a warning, this sounds like anger that the warning was not heeded. I agree.

[@Duane_Grabert]

Exactly.

[@davidharman8263]

Thanks for the quote. I put the full paragraph above.

[@Karenlowry1]

And then add Pentatonix's version, which is hope that we can change.

[@larrylee8441]

Paul Simon tried to warn people, but didn't have to tools to really convey the message properly. I have watched the reactions and nobody gets the message, just the musical emotion.

[@k1-b0kibo78]

Have heard this many times and agree. So pertinent for today. And we should be angry.

[@Duken4evr29]

I like the reviewer's interpretation. The interesting thing is the original song was written way before social media and yet it is so applicable today. Timeless masterpieces are like that.

[@davidkrutsinger5414]

You turn it up, close your eyes and just feel the music and you can't help but break down and cry.

[@SuffiReax]

Cry from the beauty of his voice but also the accuracy of the words

[@debahern7101]

Tears, every time I hear it.

[@1stimereefer]

@@debahern7101 same here AND it makes me mad.

[@deborahallen3318]

Right! This is the second and final warning! 😥

[@joshuahodgkinson1580]

God when creating david: would you like the voice of an angel or devil? David: yes

[@lindacantu9885]

An anthem for the times. 50 years old and just as relevant today as it ever was. Great reaction thanks for sharing.

[@MsMom333]

THE ANTHEM FOR 2020.

[@elkaiozen]

Probably even more relevent today it is amazing how a song over 60 years old so prefectly predicted where society was headed. The isolation from the very same technology that supposedly brings us together. We can send a message nearly instantly a crossed the world and yet somehow can't be further apart.

[@terigordon8244]

I agree. I have been enjoying watching these young people and their reactions and how they see the lyrics. Senior citizen. Thank you for sharing.

[@BitWrecker]

More relevant today, in life, politics, etc.

[@cindywheatley6736]

So true

[@babs2027]

I LOVE hearing a younger generation hearing the song for the first time. No, it has nothing to do with social media…. But history repeats itself in different ways

[@KimmyGibson]

I am 63 and when this song came out I was just a little girl, but so taken with the song, that it's the first one I learned all the lyrics to. Thank you for such a heartfelt reaction. I have just recently discovered Disturbed through this song and have watched every reaction to it. I also ventured out into the rest of their music and LOVE it. I was never a 'metal' fan....closest thing I listened to in 'rock', if you want to call it that, was Dave Matthews :) Music is the saving grace for coping with my disabilities and I am forever grateful to both the artists who perform these beautiful songs AND those who entertain me by reacting to them. Thank you!

[@SuffiReax]

Absolutely! Thank you for watching and reacting :) I appreciate you kind words and am so glad you enjoyed the video. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to and reacting to this song. One of the most impressive I have heard yet!

[@kristimarriner7673]

I am just a few years younger than younger than you and I use music to keep me going through my hard times. Have you listened to Linkin Park? Their music helps me work through any emotions I have. Also have songs like Iridescent that lift me up. ❤️❤️❤️

[@jenniferross1371]

@@kristimarriner7673 @Kimmy Gibson I join you in the 'around 60' women loving Disturbed and especially this song. (Also LOVE Linkin Park!) I wonder if that is embarrassing for Disturbed? "Hi, we're a heavy metal band with a lot of old Grannies as fans!"

[@cynconnie]

@Jennifer Ross...I'm another 60 yo woman to add to the "I love Disturbed" collective. :) I came upon this video by chance a few months ago and I've been a Disturbed fan ever since! I can't get enough of their music! It gets me through the bad times and helps me enjoy the good times. David Draiman's voice is a gift from up above!! I'm an african-american woman who loves heavy metal, rock, country, r&b, classical and jazz, etc... Music is the voice of the soul!! @Suffi Reax...I was so impressed by your reaction! You are one of few who truly understood what the words of the song were trying to convey!

[@gerikiefer8713]

I am 76 years old and saw Simon and Garfunkel perform this in concert. This is absolutely the best cover of any song I've ever heard in my life. I've listened to it almost daily since my grandson introduced me to Disturbed. I'm not a heavy metal fan, but this guy!!!!! Wow. Gives me goosebumps every time.

[@saltydog0069]

I saw on another reaction video of this cover the best comment ever. It said, "Simon and Garfunkel's version was a warning and Disturbed's version is the rage felt because no one listened".

[@SuffiReax]

Yes a few have said that same comment here and I think it is a perfect summation of the two songs!

[@CrimFerret]

Listen to the original from Simon and Garfunkel. That was the warning. It was ignored. This is the resulting battle cry.

[@lokicooper4690]

Hadn't thought of it that way. Well said!

[@BeanDip1953]

It’s the reckoning!

[@sunshynff]

It wasn't a warning from Paul, read by above comment

[@CrimFerret]

@@sunshynff Interpret the song your way. I'll interpret it mine. Ta ta

[@sunshynff]

CrimFerret....Exactly! I'm not disparaging your interpretation at all, It's a very good one!! Seriously. as I said above, i just meant Paul didn't wright it as a warning, and you said it so matter of factly, and i've seen comments on this thread and other reactions of this song of people telling others they're interpretation is wrong. Paul has stated in several interviews that he was very young when he wrote it, and it had no deeper meaning than he thought it was ominous and dark words for a song and he was a kid full of angst. Only lyric based in reality is the very first line, because to get some privacy when growing up and later with roommates he'd go into the bathroom to practice his guitar, he would turn out the lights and turn the faucet on. Hence; "Hello darkness my old friend" But he added that he loves the fact that people can interpret it in so many different ways and have it speak to them or have meaning. Thats the great thing about music and songs, they can live on long after the creator is gone, taking on new forms and features.✌️ .

[@josephcarriker3967]

The "silence" in this song is disconnection - each of us talking without being heard, each of us with stories (songs) that we're writing without being able to share them, peoples' voices unable to break through that silence, and the lack of connection growing and growing, with no one able to break through it, to connect.

[@royreynolds108]

I am 76. About a year ago, I heard this version. I called my younger son to tell him about it and told him that I had heard Simon & Garfunkel and this song for years and now I understand it. I, too, have been watching reactions to this song. I am sure some people will tell you to look up the Conan O'Brien Show video of this song to watch; it will be worth your time to do it. There is a better orchestral backing thanks to the label. David Draiman was sick that night but still nailed this song. Several people who were in the audience commented that the applause and standing ovation lasted for about 10 minutes. That presentation got a Grammy nomination.

[@karenmcgrady6349]

I grew up listening to Simon and Garfunkel's version (I'm 69 yrs.old). I have listened to this version a LOT and I never get tired of it. It's fun to go out and watch all the reaction videos of it. I hope David Draiman does more covers that are as powerful as this one! LOVE IT!!

[@juliechurley2716]

When a song gives you goosebumps every single time you hear it, you know it has a unique power & magic

[@Zekespeaks]

You seem to get it pretty well. Simon and Garfunkel wrote this in the '60's and sang it in a very passive way. They were warning society of what was coming. Disturbed is now shouting the same message at us and we must wake up before it's too late to recover. Think carefully about the lyrics.

[@dankatie7188]

Agreed...is one of very few reactors that truly understands the song...

[@sunshynff]

NO they were not!!!

[@lorettaoverholt8038]

Just must correct one thing Simon wrote the songs. Garfuncle just sang harmony.

[@rebeccas4899]

I have watched a lot of "reactors" do this song, and you are one of only a few that really got what the song was actually about. Keeping in mind the song is 50 years old, it's so powerful. You did a magnificent job. Thanks!!!! P.S. I am a "aged" fan, so I was well familiar with the song. You have a new subscriber because of this reaction.

[@SuffiReax]

Thank you! I appreciate your kind words and I am glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks so much for the support :)

[@VertigoBear]

He gets it. So many reaction videos of this song. I’ve probably watched 50 of them. This is the first reactor who truly gets it. Amazing.

[@mtswope2999]

I'm 77 yrs. old and this is the most powerful piece of music I think I have ever heard. And this young man understands it better than almost anyone i have heard react to it.

[@sunshynff]

Actually, according to this one guy, hmmm, oh yeah, the guy who wrote the song, Paul Simon, the song was not about anything really. He has said, in many an interview, that he wrote the song when he was young and full of angst, and thought the words sounded dark and deep. He stated the line with the most meaning based on his own experience was the very first one, due to the fact to escape the noise of his family, or later roommates, he would go in the bathroom, turn of the faucet, shut out the lights and practice playing his guitar. "Hello darkness my old friend" He added that he truly does enjoy that people can personalize the song, and get the meaning out of it they need, but also thinks it's amusing so many people claim to actually know what it means.

[@rebeccas4899]

@@sunshynff If that's the case, the song has a specific meaning to each of us. I guess Suffi Reax and I have found a similar meaning. I appreciate his visceral reaction. No fault in trying to explain what you get from a song.

[@savvaspavlou5929]

Your most attentive reaction deserves a subscription. Having watched over a hundred reactions to this masterpiece you are one of the best! Well done.

[@nancyschisler7164]

This young man got the message of the song. They wrote it about our society. I think they were ahead of their time when they wrote it.

[@charolettebarnett3420]

This song and Disturbed hits you right in you're Heart and your Soul. This man's Voice is Beautiful and sooooo powerful.

[@katiebeckstead8945]

This son seems even more relevant today than when it was first released. Simon and garfunkle wrote the powerful words and melody and Disturbed hit it home with the rendition. So powerful and great reaction!

[@katiemurray735]

This song is my favorite to watch people react to!! I go out of my way to search it. David has the voice of an angry yet soothing god lol 🖤🖤🖤

[@SuffiReax]

I agree, his voice gives me chills every time I listen to this song.

[@rustyjoints4857]

Every time I listen to this I’m always amazed how Paul Simon could see into the future when he wrote the lyrics, they relate to our modern day society and thinking. Probably the most powerful song ever written and I’m pleased David carried that through into his rendition 👌🏼

[@SuffiReax]

Yes I agree, David did the song more than justice!!

[@tss9886]

When this song was written there was no social media. I actually think it's about failing to see what is in front of you because you are to busy chasing material things. It was originally done in a folk style it was powerful then, this is more.

[@nancyabsolon3459]

The song is timeless. As time passes there were and will be many Neon Gods. He's saying Social Media for this time in time. It may be AI next. Who knows what the future will bring, but this song will always be a plea for change.

[@riverzala9186]

The breakdown of human race (which is happening right now) Neon GODS WE MADE are your phones and computers ...nobody talking.. (always on the phones...IPADS) ..... SILENCE....

[@Lee4364]

Not exactly.. But it is actually in response to the JKF & the MLK assassinations. But it is as relevant today as it was back then when it was written by Simon Garfunkel

[@andrewinbody4301]

@@Lee4364 MLK was dealing with social unrest at the time but he was very much alive.

[@alanajohnson9448]

he told understood that song, what an intelligentman x

[@sunshynff]

​@@Lee4364...Ummm, how can that me, since Paul wrote the song in 1963 and MLK wasn't assassinated until 1968. i The song wasn't about anything in particular, period. Read my comment to Rebecca S for better explanation, not retyping it.

[@mandisanders40]

I drove to my old college town, 3 hours away to have dinner with my college friends. Just to chat and visit. We got to the restaurant and ordered our food. Everyone was instantly on their phones. All of them! Except me. My phone was in the car. It was a conscious decision before I got out of the car, to leave it there, because we were there to visit. It felt very lonely and quiet in that restuarant with 8-10 old friends i had not seen in years. The sound of silence.

[@SimbaOS]

Considering that the song was written back in the 60s, I would say that this is the most prophetic song ever written.

[@ljubomirradovnikovic9184]

Agreed, Simon and Garfunkel's original was a warning, this is THE wake up call

[@johnkeller1057]

I’m old enough to have Simon and Garfunkel on my playlists, yet young enough to call out the same “neon god” that you did. While Paul Simon was not thinking of the internet in 1964, it’s existence today has closed the loop on his prophetic warning. As you said, so much talking going on, yet little valuable information is being shared. We retreat into our clicks and speak self affirming drivel to others that think like us. All this to the detriment of society (like a cancer). Where’s the boat that we need to cross that river? This cover is approaching a billion views now. That’s no accident. I think it’s touching a lot of people. “Thank you” to Dave Draiman and Disturbed for writing these lyrics on the subway walls and giving us another chance to listen to the words.

[@mickoneill6420]

Great reaction. I spend a lot of my time watching reactions to this song, and you are the first, I think, that has come close to interpreting its meaning. From the introductory verses where he simply explains that he had a dream, to the way people try to say anything of real importance (writing songs that voices never share) but cannot be heard (hearing without listening), while the rest of the population just prattle and don't say anything of real importance (talking without speaking). The way his voice starts with sadness, builds to frustration, and finally hits the crescendo with anger. The only thing I would say is take away the word "social" from "media" - social media was not even a concept when this song was written, but the media was already in full swing, TELLING us what is meaningful or not. And God help anyone who thought differently.

[@SuffiReax]

Yes that is an excellent observation, his voice going from sadness to frustration to anger. They built that intensity so well, it gives me chills.

[@beadybaby]

This song is almost 60 years old. Voices have been silenced since long before the advent of social media.

[@lectrician1]

magnum opus. Ive been watching these reaction videos for six straight hours of the same song over and over. I cry almost every time. it is awesome seeing how the people are blown away. I think they changed music with this performance.

[@ruthiewohlforth5464]

David Draiman...a voice to die for. A powerful yet soulful voice that can go from warm baritone to angelic tenor, from clear as a crystal to rasp/distortion and back on a dime. He has a timbre in his voice that I've never heard before.....just hauntingly beautiful and pure tonal properties to it! An awesome talent and obvious training to deliver what he does!! Can sing like an angel or the devil ! Loved your reaction and your take on David's performance Suffi. Try "Deceiver", "The Night", "Indestructible" and "Violence Fetish" by Disturbed too.

[@welshxwanderer7739]

I have watched a few reactions to this fantastic re-imagining of 'The sound of silence', and I have to say your interpretations of the words are impressive. Very few people take the time to actually break down the meaning of the lyrics. Another thing that needs attention is the images in the video itself, a particular fav of mine is at the end when the boat with all the instruments is crossing the water going towards the people, who are all holding song sheets in their hands....very open to interpretation but I like to think of it as the people getting their voice back :-)

[@lindabebar6095]

The awakening

[@charlenelesher1198]

I'm 61 and Bridge Over Troubled Water was always my favorite of theirs...even though I learned to play many of their songs on my piano growing up. Now, at my age, after watching this cover, I am thoughly convinced that this is the most incredible awakening I have experienced! Not only is David's voice beautiful, it is full of emotion. Not only could you hear it, but you could see it in his face. The pure artistry behind the video is phenomenal and moving. I cried as I finally understood what Paul Simon was correctly prophecying. I got a very similar impression that you did. It was profound. I must have listened and watched this video 20 times before I stopped burying out in tears. Since I first heard this, I have seen quite a few interviews with David and I was truly impressed with who he is as a person and performer. He was classically trained and together with his natural talent and ability to FEEL what he is singing tells me a lot about his character. And about the piercings....I am not a fan of them and to each his own....reminds me not to stereotype nor judge a book by it's cover. ❤

[@nicoleleblanc1531]

I know it's been 3 years since you posted this video, but I found this reaction today. I just have to tell you that this is by far the best reaction video I've ever watched. I can tell how much you love music and the story telling of a great song. You are so well spoken and observant. You take the time to really listen to the lyrics and and then share with us what you think they mean. And i love how you took a song that has been around for so long and explain exactly how it is relevant for today's society. Job well done! I am about to journey down the rabbit hole of your videos and I'm so excited.

[@lacyinmon1004]

I'm sitting here crying with shivers down my spine

[@WireWeaver]

Paul Simon was a prophet in 1963 when he dreamed of 10,000 people bowing to a neon light.

[@BitWrecker]

You aren't getting carried away, for a first time listener, you NAIL the meanings in the song. (Neon lights then = social media and cell phones now). Great job

[@ruthiewohlforth5464]

David Draiman....one of THE BEST vocalist's we have out there! Soooo damn talented!! Quality voice!! Can sing ANYTHING!!!

[@judithwilson3561]

When you think, this song was written in the 60s, long before social media, its like a prophecy. Paul Simon said after hearing this that their own version was nothing compared to this. I never listened to the words of the Simon and Garfunkel version, This version just floored me.

[@aylacowgill1624]

Dude….you totally got it!! 🙏🙌💖💖💖 even now, in November 2022, I use this song as a warm-up to my gym workouts. And as I’m warming up in my gym, I still have a glint in my eye because it still brings me to tears after listening to it a Bajillion times!🤣🤣🤣

[@pierreblomgren6927]

I grew up with these songs like 50 years old. My own father takes my CDs. he has started to like modern music. He is 70 years old.

[@joannajohnson8210]

Another iconic cover is Johnny Cash's cover of "Hurt," written by Trent Reznor of 9-inch Nails. It's a deep song, and Mr. Cash does an epic job.

[@timothymcglade105]

I’m 59. I just wonder how amazed you were to find out this was written the year I was born. 1963. It was the counter culture of the 60s. It does parallel with present day because history repeats.

[@rickmcgibbon6290]

The lyrics are from 1964 and one would have to be aware of the world at this time. Can you relate it to the world today, yes !!! But the concern in 1964 was that the folk music movement of the 50' s and early 60's and their powerful messages were being pushed away by the British Rock Invasion where the beat and tune were now what the youth was looking for and no messages in the music to hear. Slainte

[@JE-MG]

Don’t forget the invention of the TV was around that time when it began to take over the home radio.

[@rickmcgibbon6290]

@@JE-MG TV's became fairly common in the 1950's, but by 1964 almost every American home had one and now they were becoming "colored TV's". More and more families gathered around the TV and watched others with less communication between family members. But it was all part of the concern shown in the song.

[@doreenorr6435]

Yeah, can't have the general public actually thinking about things that go against our masters lies and cover ups, sad but spot on comment my friend

[@doreenorr6435]

@@rickmcgibbon6290 as it says, "and the people bowed and prayed, to the neon god they made" on point I reckon

[@rickmcgibbon6290]

@@doreenorr6435 today the "one point" might be the "smart phone fixation" ??

[@lozweir]

Remember this was written in 1964 by Paul Simon. So the lyrics weren't meant for today but seem to be more relevant today.

[@holbeckmax]

Despite being sick at the time the live Conan performance is phenomenal

[@summoningreaders]

I think your reaction to this cover is my favorite, you're paying so much attention and you clearly understand the song and it's impacting you. A++ to your reaction. there's a comment I read on a different video that I love and it said that the original song was a warning of what is to come if were not carful and Disturbed's version is like a call to war on what has happen.

[@djvdjvDJV]

Bro, this was written in the 60’s but the words reverberate still today

[@paulanneheide4730]

Oh my gosh you truly hear this song. I have watched reactions for hours today and you made me tear up because you get it.

[@KimChilds75]

He took his piercings out in I think 2018. He said in an interview that he had started to "feel weird walking around looking like a 45 year old Hot Topic kid". He also said "they were a pain in the butt".

[@SuffiReax]

Lol that is hilarious But yes they also looked very uncomfortable haha

[@preslavplays6641]

thats the greatest song ever and it will remain

[@rita1869]

I cant listen to this song without getting goosebumps and tears in my eyes everytime. I think he captured the utter hopelessness that the lyrics of this song try to convey unlike Simon and Garfunkel's version. You would probably like his song Darkness if you like is soft calm voice. Its a slow song but its also beautiful. Thanks for giving this song a chance. I really love it.

[@dlv51]

The last verse always puts tears in my eyes

[@cmhazard7242]

Simon gave this song to David after he heard this version. When Simon wrote this song he was talking about TV being introduced to society...David has made it apply to social media now. This song is timeless...

[@brianfulton590]

You understand. Thank you, wake the rest of your generation up!

[@ArleneVonAllemann-ck4fn]

Every time I hear David Draiman's version I am blown away. He's got the most beautiful voice and style WOW

[@CherylGross12]

I am 54 years old and I LOVE this cover!!

[@jazziered142]

The song is from the '60s, long before social media. The message is timeless.

[@SherPettit]

David has one of the most beautiful powerful voices ever ❤️

[@KatArnold-le8ql]

Pabl Simon wrote this song in 1963. He was 21. It was before it's time . I love this song by Disturbed. I am 66.

[@joaobarreira1067]

My belief is that both Simon and Disturbed interpreted the song differently and thus the song being performed from opposite view points. The original version is performed almost in a folksy manner, taking nothing away from the great original version. The Disturbed version however dug deeply into the lyrics and made the cover their own. They know exactly how this song pertains to today's society and how the lyrics hold a certain profoundness to what we are experiencing today. That is why I think this cover version by Disturbed is iconic. Simon was right when he said that people should interpret the song on a personal level which is exactly what Disturbed accomplished when they took this wonderful old song and made it their own. Amazing!!

[@marissathebooknerd]

Chills...always...everytime

[@johnbraucher1499]

The entire band and studio personnel were CRYING when he came out of the sound booth. Simon and Garfunkel told them. "This is THEIR song now" that says a lot. Lol Check out the live version on conan....he was SICK af and still NAILED it.

[@paulinemaclellan8204]

Your comments are so interesting. When this song was written there was no social media but your interpretation is applicable

[@stephendavidallen]

Great reaction! This is the only version that Paul Simon endorsed, and praised on his website.

[@SuffiReax]

That's gotta feel so good for the band knowing that the original artists approves of your work haha

[@chudwickmt]

One could almost offer a college-accredited course on this tune. There’s the original soft lamentation that was Paul Simon’s, who was reacting to Kennedy’s assassination. This tune was a hit in 1964. The neon god was television and being told what we need(what to buy). People would come home from work, have dinner, and watch TV all night. This song is so prescient, because we have multiplied that by 1,000,000. We’re all buried in our phones, and our communication is so much less because we have our silos and we are meaner because we feel more anonymous on the internet. The second message was brought by Disturbed through the video, which was people unearthing their instruments in a post apocalyptic world. Then across this great gulf of water were the songwriters. And at the end, the players put all their instruments in the boat and crossed the gulf, to be united.

[@joaobarreira1067]

Sir, you were spot on with your analysis. This song is a warning to us all. If you notice we no longer communicate without social media and those of us trying to speak are being silenced by sensorship. Its almost as if we have given up the will to fight, thus we give in to the silence. Its amazing that this song was written 60 years ago, and it is equally amazing that you are such a perceptive young man.

[@tinydancer36]

An still no one is paying attention.

[@reggiefokes6677]

Social media didn't exist in 1965, when this song was written. The song is timeless. Technology as we know it didn't exist then and the lyrics ring home today.

[@MsMom333]

YOU NAILED IT. Social media - talking without speaking, hearing without listening. Paul Simon wrote this in response to a tumultuous time in US history, so poignant for 2020 too. Powerful song.

[@kerwynbrat5771]

I was a young woman when this came out in 1966. This was a time of war both in Vietnam and here where black americans were being beaten and shot in the streets for trying to be free. Many of the songs from that time were addressing the issues of our society. Society did not listen then, as recent events have shown, they still are not listening. This song is a warning, we still aren't listening.

[@lauracorriss9538]

The song is being sung the way it should be. Not placid, not gentle, but angered by humanity for not fixing the problems.

[@RC-pv9ll]

I agree a hundred percent. While listening to this song for six hours, my analysis immediately took me to the fact that rock singers are the best to sing the most beautiful and touching songs ever. Guns and Roses, Metallica, and the likes. They bring emotions across fenomenall.

[@Maple837]

This is a song that will live on forever...! So glad you did this song.. great job Danny

[@SuffiReax]

Thank you :)

[@sydneywellington22]

-Draiman covers roughly two-and-a-half octaves from bottom to top. His vocals are so distinctive. -Disturbed had been nominated for a GRAMMY for Best Rock Performance for their rendition of "The Sound of Silence" while appearing on Conan. -David Draiman: "The fact that I was sick as a dog (laughs). I remember I was definitely fighting something off, but it was a cool experience. It was cool performing with an actual orchestra. It was really vibing and the mood helped, I think, enhance the delivery. The stars just aligned that night and everything went right." -

[@BrianSFischer]

Hard to believe this was written 50 years ago!

[@lorries978]

this song was written way before social media was ever even thought of, we still watched black & white tv's, lyrics by paul simon, sung by art garfunkle, during the late 1960s about the Vietnam war. on one side of the water were people with the instruments, the other side people holding sheets of music. David Draiman spent the first couple of decades of his life training in the US and Israel to be a cantor, like his world-famous grandfather.

[@karenlee188]

It's all about the disconnect

[@junearnold492]

This song was written by Paul Simon . He wrote it when he was 21 . The year was 1963. His singing partner was ART GARFUNKEL. DAVID sings it with so much more feeling and more powerfully in the words . Its so much better than the original version. The group DISTURBED recorded this version in 2015. But i am very glad they did cover. A lot more people are hearing it now than ever before.. I do not judge by a group being heavy metal band but by how its done. I have come across alot of great music like this by listening to the music,not by judging by the group. I am 62 years old so I LOVE MUSIC. LIVE FOR MUSIC.

[@sandyleewhite]

Your facial reactions say it all !!! This is an amazing cover of a brilliant song, 1st done by Simon & Garfunkel warning us, if we don't change our ways we are headed for destruction, & Disturbs version is angry, because we didn’t listen to the warnings 😌

[@debbiecalnan9327]

What a fantastic and dead-on interpretation of this song. Thank you for getting it and sharing it. Of all the versions I have heard of this song, Disturbed's is definitely my favorite; so powerful.

[@jdrollins6485]

This song was written in the sixties long before social media. Simon was young when he wrote this, but observed that communication between people was broken. It was disappointing to him that two sides were never listening to the other. It is interesting your slant on this song. It is relevant even today.

[@ariellebiron]

If you think this was good(which let's face it you're so right on the double bop) you should totally check out Pentatonix- Hallelujah maybe not in your normal genres but it may surprise you if you don't know of them already 😊🤭

[@SuffiReax]

I do know of Pentatonix, a few people have recommended this song by them so I will have to check out these too!

[@schuhschrank947]

@@SuffiReax Yes, please!

[@lokicooper4690]

@@SuffiReax They have done a beautiful version of Sound of Silence. I don't think it's as emotional as this, but still amazing to listen to.

[@tammythomas851]

His voice, this video, pierces your soul!

[@shellyfox863]

The song was written in the early 60's a long time before social media. It was written as a reaction to the assignation of JFK. The line people talking without speaking is a line a came to understand several years ago. I was living in a small mountain town. A major forest fire was slated to wipe our town out. An entire town prepped for evacuation knowing that homes and "the things" would likely no longer be there when we returned. A few people brought in moving trucks and choose to take all of their things. Most people choose radical acceptance and prioritized things. Pets, important documents, photographs and sentimental things. The irreplaceable. We all went about doing our preparations. Banking, mail, ect. There was a little bit of time for this. We were connecting with each other, nodding, really looking at each other but not speaking. There was no need for it. We all knew what each other was thinking. We all knew what each other was feeling. To speak would have emotionally been to much to bear. We all shared a very freighting, painful, common knowing and traumatic experience. Everyone single member of the community at the very same time. It was the most unique social phenom I have ever experienced in my life. One I hope to never experience again. There were just simply no words to name the emotion. Overcome is the closest I've ever gotten. At the last moments the winds shifted and our town was spared within an hour of when homes would have started burning. As happy as we all were for this miracle a town a little further away was not so lucky. Survivors quilt is carried by many of us to this day. (This fire was over 20 years ago.) Life quickly returned to normal. It was spoken about for a short while but not for long. People wanted to put it behind them as quickly as possible. This phenom occurred with the American public when this murder occurred. An entire nation shared a very freighting, painful, common knowing and traumatic experience. To not get that line is a really good thing. It has been years yet here today tears are running down my face as I write this.

[@lesaahrenstein6360]

Evil exists when good people do nothing

[@shoff5200]

It is Amazing how a song released almost 60 years ago still rings true today. This cover is AMAZING

[@megyseth1733]

Song was written in 1964, so it was literally talking about neon lights, but it's interesting how relevant it is today with LED lights.

[@katiep5256]

This song gives me chills every time I hear it. I’m assuming you’ve heard Johnny Cash’s version of Hurt, but if you haven’t, do that one lol. Lyrics NF Mansion

[@SuffiReax]

Yes, that build and the ending just captivates me every time! Oh yes haha I have heard that classic. I wish I hadn't so I could experience it again but its one of my favorites by him. Bravo with the lyrics!

[@Lily_Samson]

Disturbed’s version hits all your musical senses…You see it, feel it, and hear it all in a powerful crescendo into finally uniting the music with the musicians…Brilliant! Thanks for your well felt reaction! I love watching reaction videos of songs that move my soul…However, this cover by ‘Disturbed’ is always stopped for reaction just as it’s building to a new level…99% of male reactors do this, and I have to be honest and descriptive here (wives will understand what I mean🫢)… It’s like the act of physical love being expressed and you are in a rhythmic flow toward a beautiful climax and suddenly… your 6 yo. is knocking on the bedroom door…🙄🫤 Thanks for your beautiful reaction… 🦋Lily🦋

[@equinatordarkhorn2088]

The original was a warning. This version, the warning was not heard...

[@andrewinbody4301]

Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it

[@ericstoepker1015]

It's the only cover Paul Simon ever posted to one of his social media accounts, can't remember which. I read Paul said it had the emotion that he wanted it to have and it's now a Disturbed song. Well deserved high praise.

[@toniallen1130]

Nothing new under the sun. Simon and Garfunkle wrote about these warnings back in the ‘60’s and, yet, here we are today. New technology, same problem.

[@nateeller2748]

"and the people bowed and prayed, to the Neon God they made"! Sounds like our society today. People worship Pop culture instead of God himself.

[@SuffiReax]

Exactly. These things in our pockets or on our walls are our idols and have a grip on us that most don't even realize.

[@stevendefeo8424]

I have watched so many reactions to this song that literally 100% of people should agree this is so much better than the original. Even Paul Simon said this is now Disturbed’s song. He literally said yo you did it wayyyy better.

[@TheTibbott]

There was some kind of apocalypse. Some people found instruments but no music. Some found music but no instruments. Then they found each other. The imagery in this entire video is profound. Black and white. The clouds. The crowd of people at first looks like a giant open maw. The paper, upon which the notes are being written, is so HD. To say nothing of David's full-face occupation of the screen. The only time he looks away - "it split the night"; his calm intensity morphing into rage...whoever directed this video instilled every frame with meaning. (I wish I knew how to find information on video-makers as well as musicians - the visual impact so often multiplies the musical one. Are they the unsung heroes of this creativity?)

[@alicehancock483]

Simon and Garfunkel wrote this about the world and Disturbed did it as a response to us humans not responding. Welcome to David he is a trained classically and he is the best male vocalist ever .

[@joelemmons59]

This song is over 50 years old that is what makes it amazing

[@bmbc100]

Keep in mind this song was written in the 60s...there was no social media