DISTURBED's David Draiman: The Tea Time Interview with The Charismatic Voice!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Hey lovelies! Quick update since this interview was filmed: David's biopsy on the tumor from his wrist came back benign, negative for cancer. He is healthy and recovering, and should be back on the road touring this month!

[@brookecollins5947]

Hell yes! The legend remains the legend

[@bydavidmitchell]

This is great news! I didn't catch the livestream but have just watched it now and when he mentioned the tumour at the start I was absolutely gutted. I'm so glad to hear it's benign. Best news I've heard all day. Great that you got to interview David too. Fantastic job. Keep up the great work Elizabeth!

[@Thagrynor]

Thank you for the update. I am just getting to watch and listen and was suddenly very worried. I am so glad to hear David is well.

[@princessmigo]

Good to hear, benign! Scary!

[@sharonspiller7427]

Just came to look for this update. Thank you. Very good news!

[@majorzipf8947]

His speaking voice is incredible. It’s like velvet filled with rocks. Smooth yet gravelly. But even the way he enunciates and shapes his words is melodic. I could listen to him speak for hours.

[@Digz0r]

Seriously - and not just how he speaks, but he is the most down-to-earth person. You never expect someone in his position and with his following to be so calm and at peace in everything he does outside of his craft. Love this interview so much.

[@Gutslinger]

I find it odd.. Where is he from, originally?

[@JerieBerry]

I was trying to find the words to describe his voice and you nailed it....velvet filled with rocks ❤

[@kz03jd]

@@Gutslinger Brooklyn

[@jayhildenbrand7237]

His accent is a touch of Jewish, Ashkinaz Israeli & NYC. Sounds incredibly like Gene Simmons, who holds a similar personal background. Slow, smart & calculated, when he speaks. Very modest. He would be called a Mench, sitting through this long interview without being a Prima Donna. Can't get more down to earth than him.

[@braidwooddesignstudio5536]

David, he is my therapy. Lost my husband of 60 years to cancer. I have to listen to Disturbed every day to keep my sanity. Forget about support, the elderly, disabled, depressed is part of a forgotten community. David's interpretation of the Sound of Silence is so unique, deep, incredible. Thank you.

[@stevewilson2190]

God bless

[@jesusjimenez6755]

Can you check out One More Light by Linkin Park? You'll relate to it a lot! If you do choose to listen to it, plz lmk what you think! (It's my fav song of all time!)

[@braidwooddesignstudio5536]

@jesusjimenez6755 Thank you for your suggestion. Yes, I can relate. I spent all day just listening to music. Helps coping. Have you checked out Disturbed Hold on to memories? Poignant.

[@jesusjimenez6755]

@@braidwooddesignstudio5536 yes i have it's a beautiful song

[@jesusjimenez6755]

@@braidwooddesignstudio5536 did u like one more light?

[@gallavanting2041]

When the indestructible album came out David made a song about his teenage girlfriend committing suicide. At the time I was a teenager stuck in a relationship with a partner regularly threatening to kill themselves and it was making me suicidal, and I probably would've done something stupid if he hadn't shared so much of his personal pain, it inspired me to sort out the bad situation I was in and get myself right. He's probably saved a lot of people.

[@SonyaPorter-n9q]

I’m English, 85 and my preferred music is soft classic but I recently found Disturbed ‘Sound of Silence’ and your music, Sir, is definitely classic of a different kind. Quite incredible!

[@tdmotorsport]

One thing I love about David is his attitude and presentation during interviews. He’s deliberate about his speech, eloquent. It’s never rushed and spastic like most rockers. He approaches his music as art and profession, and seems to have a lovingly codependent relationship with his friends and fans.

[@america1st721]

Hard core metal god that has the poise and elocution of a Rhodes scholar.

[@tye829]

True! I prefer rockers like this. Too many act like they are trying to convince you they are cool way too hard. I appreciate David’s normal-ness. Seems like a relatable guy

[@shadowwylde]

I was thinking the same thing. He has a very nice way of speaking.

[@Headroom23]

He doesn't come across as a metal rocker. He's quite articulate.

[@chaosdragun1608]

1000%

[@Meatball2022]

He’s got a beautiful soul. This dude is special. Hats off to him. Such a kind and wonderful man

[@katherinep223]

Ohhhhh tryouts shouldn’t send him off , I love kids

[@jillhobbs5334]

I just wanted to hug David for his honesty and vulnerability. A wonderful soul.

[@roxannem.3823]

I am a woman with 79 years behind her who absolutely loves this man. The night Disturbed appeared on the Conan show, I was channel surfing and just happened to pause when they were announced. I stopped and was immediately involved in the magical, wonderful, powerful experience in their performance of The Sound of Silence, and to this day I feel as though I was given a gift...a gentle push perhaps, to introduce David into my life. And even though I know that I will never have the opportunity to meet him or even see him, I feel I have him as a friend. I have gained such such admiration and respect for him and listen to him whenever I can. Listening to him in interview has become a gift...his voice is just wonderful. Thank you so much for this one.

[@BlackDragonQueen]

David always presents himself as a human being. There's never a bit of ego or an air of superiority. You get the feeling that if you bumped into him anywhere, you could have such an awesome down-to-earth conversation with him.

[@septembersfire29]

What I would give to just hang out with him.❤

[@rlawrence71]

As a very cynical person, there's nothing more pleasing to me than to see extremely sincere and uncynical people having a conversation. I don't want to see more "Me's," I want to see less. This is a blessing.

[@Sir-Chancelot]

No matter how many times I hear him, I’m always blown away by David’s soft and well spoken demeanor.

[@sonicplys64]

He has one of the most unique voices in rock. This will be good.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

I just love his sound. I can't tell you how overjoyed I was at him agreeing to talk!

[@07broly]

Him and Serj Tankian

[@jamesbeecher4431]

@@TheCharismaticVoice hello Elizabeth, I was a fireman for 21 years and worked the the World Trade Center site {Ground Zero} for 10 days. I took news clips and edited them to his cover of The Sound of Silence. As soon as I saw you cover this song that is what I saw

[@sapiophile545]

​@@jamesbeecher4431many blessings for your service, and healing to your spirit

[@Ewright85]

@@jamesbeecher4431I can’t imagine what you went through. I’m an army combat vet serving in both Iraq and Afghanistan yet I can’t find the ability to imagine the horror you experienced during that horrific time. God bless you my brother

[@maureenwagg5305]

This is the type of interview that doesn't happen on talk shows. They always talk so superficially about unimportant things. I learned a lot and I was entertained, so thank you for this in depth.

[@simplyme6760]

Dear Lord this man's eloquence while speaking and intelligence that is pervasive in his musicianship radiates from him. What a truly amazing man!

[@JerieBerry]

Well said

[@Timbertouchbespoke]

Agreed... not exactly the persona he portrays is he... he seems like the type of guy you could realy have a heart to heart to whilst listening to death metal lol

[@Slothisticated0252]

He takes his time to talk and find the correct words, super impressive and admiring

[@Sting79]

David is the most self aware and caring rocker I’ve ever seen. Saw them on tour a couple months ago and the show was incredible and top notch.

[@Madchris8828]

Just saw them the other day, can absolutely concur with this assessment. My parents also love his Sound of Silence cover as I do as well.

[@UNDERTAKERULEZ102]

Seeing them tonight for the first time!

[@Madchris8828]

@UNDERTAKERULEZ102 you'll be blown away. Have fun! Jinjer also was ridiculously good too

[@UNDERTAKERULEZ102]

@@Madchris8828 I think my show is gonna have Breaking Benjamin open. Not a bad opener since I enjoy a few of their songs lol

[@MrJedimedic]

Same here!

[@torc7424]

I always think that artists must enjoy your Tea Times, you avoid most of the questions that they've answered way too many times already and get to really talk deeply about their music. Obviously we all enjoy them too. :)

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Sometimes a question is inevitable, but. As a performing artist myself, I want to ask things that I struggled with to gain new perspectives. I've heard from some artists that it's the first time they've ever gotten detailed voice relation questions in an interview ever. I love that!

[@ihateusernamesgrrr]

@@TheCharismaticVoice You forgot to ask tea or coffee though haha. I know he said he avoids coffee for the performances, but that doesn't answer the question. 😂😂😂

[@Cybertron-cs7sk]

​@TheCharismaticVoice my two fave vocal talents wow I loved your reaction to Disturbed Sound Of Silence what an interview 👏 amazing 5 stars xxx 🎉

[@bigdog1070]

David is a Godsend. You hear the honesty and sincerity in his voice not only in his music, but each time he speaks. You can hear how he genuinely cares for his fans. That is what makes him a true mensch. He will never know how much he helped me through a very dark time in my life. I lost my father in May of 2023 after a prolonged illness. I am now caring for my elderly mom and honestly there are days when I feel like running and hiding. Days when I wonder where I will find the strength to get out of bed in the morning. When these days occur, I listen to an interview that David gave in which he discussed his own challenges with mental health. It gives me the strength to face the challenges of the day. Thank you David, for being there for me. Even if you did not know you were.

[@richchilds8173]

He is an incredible man. To expose his personal life in this interview, and owning his mental health struggles, shows the depth of his character. He is a very talented vocalist, and the fact that he cares about his audience and fans, should be an example for all the drama queen Divas out there. This interview was so awesome, and made me an even bigger fan of both Disturbed (and David in particular), and Elizabeth. She's such an open book in her passion for the music, and I love that she is not afraid to let her inner nerd be on full display, to show the love of what she does. She is so cute in her passion for music and vocals. Keep up the good work!

[@davidrobinson1201]

They are both gifts to the world indeed!

[@ruthiewohlforth5464]

David Draiman..... a powerful voice that can go from warm baritone to angelic tenor, from clear as a crystal to distortion/vocal fry and back on a dime, which goes straight through you to your very soul! He has a timbre in his voice that I've never heard before........just hauntingly beautiful. An awesome talent.....he can do things with his voice that blows my mind. David can make you cry or give you goosebumps or BOTH! His voice goes right through you! Thanks Elizabeth, loved your interview!

[@kpwpe]

You stated that perfectly. His voice touches my soul. I want to be wrapped in his voice. ❤️❤️❤️

[@michel3691]

This is one of the best descriptions of his voice that I have ever read. ✌️💚☘️🤘

[@faerieart]

I'm 67 years old and was pretty stuck in the music I'd listen to. Then I discovered reaction videos which have definitely expanded what I listen to. The first time I heard Disturbed was watching your reaction to their "The Sound of Silence" cover. Now I have several of their videos saved on KZbin so I can play them all the time while I work on art projects and write letters. Thank you for your amazing videos and information! Big Squishy Hugs from a Big Squishy Grandma!

[@deadphishcheesespread]

I just found these videos of songs with the reactions from all the people that do reaction videos. This one is Tool Lateralus. There is a bunch of them. Very entertaining. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qWHdg6J6or9krdE

[@SwitchMonkey]

Well said

[@Wrathlon]

Agreed - people love to shit on reaction videos but Ive discovered so much new music and movies Id have overlooked if it wasnt for them.

[@maarkuhitaaa8995]

I love this!!! And I love that you've discovered Disturbed ❤ they are amazing!

[@donnarotramel16]

Not as old but close! Love Elizabeth, she's made me appreciate music so much more. Never listened to Disturbed before Sound of Silence and I love exploring their other music. Draiman - Distrubed is amazing ❤

[@PlonkerConka]

I'm always blown away by how well spoken David is. He's a very insightful person and he speaks like he's lived a thousand lifetimes. It shows in some of Disturbed's work too ❤ just to add: In the song "A Reason To Fight", the live performance when David asks us to raise our hands if we have or know someone who has struggled with depression, and everyone around raises their hands, so openly showing vulnerability. That made me and many others cry.

[@maarkuhitaaa8995]

That made me cry as well at Graspop. It made me tear up and it gave me one of my biggest breakdowns right there but it was fucking beautiful. I am still flabbergasted ❤

[@jonasbartels1716]

I love this part of their performance. It shows technically 2 sides: 1. For the fans, there is a real, touchable moment where you really see that you are not alone. That it is not just a phrase, you are surrounded by thousands of people who feel what you feel, experience what you experience. This helps a lot of people. 2. For the band, especially for David: They manage to encourage people to be open about it, to support others by showing them, that they are not alone. People there don't have to be afraid to show that they or people around them fight with depression. Disturbed creates a safe space for us, in more ways they might think.

[@lonewolf36s]

NO WAY!!! You actually have an interview with him holy crap. This is so damn cool on so many levels.

[@yc.fjb.z]

I had to stop at 1:18:23 for a moment. The surgeon literally synced with the rythm of David's heart while undertaking the surgery so the singer could retain his gift of inducing emotions in other people through music. Life is so beautiful man.

[@makeityourself1]

The man wasted NO words. He speaks as if every word is weighed and measured before allowing them to leave his lips.

[@lapenesr]

I'm glad that Mr. Draiman was so straight forward showing that he's a "normal" guy going through all the stuff of life that we all have to deal with. My respect for him only increased after this interview. Thanks David & Liz!

[@Cadinho93]

You know, for a guy with such a loud, awesome, battle-cry kind of singing voice, he's surprisingly soft spoken. Also, David's best quality, besides his powerful singing voice, is his honesty.

[@Friskee62]

The same with Rob Zombie...soft spoken guy, but a beast on stage..

[@paintedlady_81]

And it seems like all the biggest rock/metal voices are smaller in stature. David, Sully Erna, Ivan Moody, Eddie Vedder, Dio…

[@sandyhausrath]

man, I'm hard-pressed to name just one trait as his best quality. What a stellar human.

[@sckntired456]

One of the biggest things I love about groups like Disturbed is that no matter how big they have gotten, they continue to play small venues. I just saw them with my 9 an 11 year old son's at a 5000 capacity hall in Zurich. The show was great and it is just a more intimate setting between the band and the fans.

[@iceberg220]

David is definitely what we can call a "gentle giant", though he's not really that tall; his attitude, care, passion and selflessness make him a special kind of person and that's what makes him a giant; he's a total inspiration for people of all kinds, races, colors, religions (or the lack of it); long live David Draiman! don't let his somehow intimidating looks and the fact that he's the lead singer of a metal band be a reason for him to be wrongfully judged; he's a beautiful soul and, to me, the most sincere entertainer

[@Rotorqueen1]

Amen Amen Amen!!! Well said and I totally agree with all that you said!!!!!!! ❤❤❤❤

[@elzanagy705]

Agree completely!

[@treyb387]

I just realized, it was exactly a year ago on this day I saw Disturbed live in Bethlehem, PA. They're my second favorite band of all time (only second to MetallicA whom I have loved since before Disturbed existed) and it was an amazing experience and David is my favorite singer ever. When I first discovered Disturbed, I felt so connected to their music, more than any other band ever. The year prior in 2021 just prior to the time of year I saw Disturbed, I ended up in the hospital due to having suicidal and harmful thoughts because of stress, dealing with past trauma that I couldn't shake still, and not sleeping for days on end. I was losing my mind and kept questioning whether anyone would give a shit if I was even alive. I ended up getting the help I need and fight every day to cherish the victories and not dwell on the pain that life can bring. The next year, MetallicA and Disturbed came to Pennsylvania in August just prior to my birthday, and MetallicA was on my birthday. It was a sign that I NEEDED to go celebrate my life with my two favorite bands of all time who had transformed my life for so many crucial parts over many years. I drove across the entire state just to see MetallicA for my third time, on my birthday. I've been a fan of Disturbed for 20+ years and kept feeling like I wouldn't even be able to see them, and then when COVID hit i was worried that I'd never see them, though I wanted to so badly. Disturbed's music hits me in my heart, mind, body, and soul. Not just because if it's awesome power, but the powerful emotional depth of feeling that comes from the music and how well it continuously blends together. What David has achieved is give a operatic power and control into vocals in the heavy metal genre to bring so much emotion and power into the vocals, on top of the incredible lyrics. I don't think a band has continously kept made me feel the power of an emotional response to music as much as Disturbed, due to their brilliance as musicians and wanting to feel the music and not just play it. When I was standing with everyone for their show all I could think of is how I fell dependent on my love of metal and rock, especially Disturbed, to get me through the hardest parts of my life and still continously do so, while being okay to embrace myself and cherish who I am as a person. I don't know if any other fans feel like this but after overcoming trauma and disappointment, I can literally put on anyone of my favorite songs by them and feel reconnected to myself in a more powerful way. I appreciate David as a leader, brother, musician, and being open of his support for others, especially his fans. I truly hope him, the band, their families, and all of us fans nothing but the best and continue to keep embracing their music and going to their shows to feel empowered to be INDESTRUCTIBLE. Thanks David, you're the best.

[@donovanshy9927]

I met Dave at a rockfest as a kid sitting sidestage as he was coming to watch and support another band called hell yea and he was the most genuine and nice person and stood there and talked with us way longer than he even should have. I will never forget that experience and truly appreciate him as a person and giving me that experience as a kid

[@williamstewart7695]

So you're sitting stage side for a great supergroup, and Dave comes by and you get to meet him? What a memory.

[@christimecarmona6810]

Hell Yeah is chad from Mudvayne and Stone Sour. All these guys are wonderful musicians!

[@Douglas-nt7jd]

Disturbed has a song called "The Curse" that saved my life. Really helped me focus my anger and rage into living just one more day. Well one more day turned into another, and another, and another. A lifetime later I'm still here

[@MisterSmith00]

Great song! “I’ve held on too long just to let it go NOW.” “Will my inner strength get me through it someHOW!?” “Defying the curse that has taken hold!” …that, and “I see my humble shelter just fall to the ground again”, is some hefty stuff. They’ve always had great material.

[@phillipkasparian5262]

A Reason to Fight

[@lorihinkle234]

She was sooooo giddy through the whole interview! He is such a wonderful , humble, and kind person. I am proud to be a Disturbed fan!!!

[@Nigel_B]

Until you realise that he supports Israel's opression of the Palestinians and calls anyone who criticises Israel as Nazi sympathisers.

[@Johnboy33545]

@@Nigel_B: We all have feet of clay. Judge not... Most people grow up in some sort of religious indoctrination and it's ever present in their lives.

[@Pyryp2]

@@Nigel_B Based.

[@BrosephGordon-Levitt]

@@Nigel_Bwell he’s Jewish so wtf u expect?

[@Master_Petes_Theater]

​​@@Nigel_BMaybe if the Palestinians wouldn't welcome Hamas and Hezbollah and encourage them to fire missles into Israel in an attempt to wipe Israel from the planet, the Israelis wouldn't need to defend themselves.

[@SamAndersen-nd3ne]

Okay... Disturbed is my favorite band and has been for the better part of 20 years. And no interviewer has gotten David (in my opinion) to describe singing like you have. So hats off, and thank you. That really meant a lot to me.

[@PamBoehmeSimon]

Thank you so much for the update. Blessed be David, his precious boy, and you and yours. AND thank you for this treasure of an interview. My beloved brother was a psychiatrist. He passed away unexpectedly a year ago at the age of 52. He lamented and railed against the state of mental healthcare. He was amazing. His patients each and every one had his personal cell number. They adored him. Tragically, as is the nature of the beast, there were a few he lost. He died a little with each one and carried their pain after they were gone. When he died, I was helping in his office so I became the family liaison to contact his patients. Their heartbreak and panic was incalculable. Trying to help them find them continued help with a new therapist was practically impossible. As much as I loved your interview with David for the music, I was blown away by your and David’s attention to mental health. Thank you, thank you, thank you. This should be required watching for everyone. I have shared it with many already. Hugs from Houston, Texas.

[@JohnMiller-te4ov]

Soft spoken, remarkably honest and open it's so cool to see this interview.

[@BuzzaB77]

Honest, apart from for some reason insists he didn't use auto tune on sound of silence! which is a blatant lie as any professional audio engineer will tell you (such as myself)

[@iamme625]

@@BuzzaB77 He pulls it off live too, would be hard to autotune that and not make it super obvious.

[@BuzzaB77]

@@iamme625 haha auto tune has been used live by artists for 2 decades , it's not hard to do. I've operated the units at the live desks myself back in the day. Having said that his live version is definitely far far less egregious than the record. It only seems to kick in on that Conan recording on a hand full of notes, possibly corrected in post which is typical for that show. And that's the worst part, when he's not auto tuned he's absolutely fine! Better in my opinion, sure he's slightly off but that has far more emotion than the literal robot on the studio version. The record has it on almost every damn note! That's why it makes me triple angry because he didn't need it, and the producer must have made the call, and the fans can't hear the difference

[@andrewgr144]

@@BuzzaB77 During the Conan performance, he was so sick that he needed to remain suited when singing, which was not a choice he made artistically, but rather a necessity because of his health. I've heard people speculate that his use of autotune during that performance was because he was worried about how his illness would degrade his vocal performance in unpredictable ways. I know that it's true that he was pretty sick, but I don't know if the speculation about it being the reason he used autotune is on-point or not. I am curious about your claim that it's egregious on the albums. I've seen many people react and review to the music video of "Sound of Silence", including several professional voice coaches and professional singers, and these are people that are not shy about calling out the use of autotune when they note it (for example, @thecharismaticvoice calls out autotune in the Conan performance), but I don't recall anyone mentioning it for the recorded version. I am not a musician or a singer, and cannot recognize (or at least, I'm not aware that I can detect) the use of autotune, so I'm reliant on the judgment of others. Are you certain that they use autotune on their albums? And if so, do you happen to know if this is a generally acknowledged fact, or if you're part of a minority that believe so? I don't have any negative thoughts/feelings about you noting what you hear, I'm genuinely just curious.

[@BuzzaB77]

@@andrewgr144 its absolute to me. I'm only referingto this silence cover, not their other songs so much. If they use it on other songs its not egregious like this. I actually think the Conan performance is better than the record. its tuned less (because live autotune has much more limitations due to latency) no doubt at all. it's not even subtle to people in my profession, there is no debate amongst those that use the software. it's literally Cher levels of correction. The phasing on the cancelled/ corrected vibrato and robotic holding of pitch and the transitions between notes is just incredibly obvious to any engineer or anyone with a trained ear for pitch. it's not a debate, it's not subtle. it's not a close call, its not sparing, or tastefully done , it's an egregious over use of it,. David can sing fine, but someone be it engineer,/producer/manager on that record made the call to overdo it. I believe david may be being clever with his wording when he stated that auto "autotune" is not used. because he may be right , I actually think this is a much more powerful piece of software called Melodyne, not Autotune. it does the same thing but not in real-time and allows more control and doesn't alter the original tone of the vocalists much, something we call formant artefacts. it's either that or he was told by the engineer/producer it wasn't used. I've seen that said a hundred times to save a singers ego. (i'm not saying he has a big ego more implying someone just didn't want/have time for that artistic debate )

[@darkhymn]

It comforts me that David feels the same way about the Sound of Silence cover that I do. Years and hundreds of listens later, I’ve still never made it through the song without crying.

[@lovelylinda15]

It's a true spiritual experience, IMHO

[@sheilawhitener3819]

Same here!! And I'm 73. Love David!

[@gawf99]

I'm only 8 minutes in and I cannot get over his cadence in the way he speaks. I really don't know how to describe it but it's very captivating.

[@jimlthor]

It's like, soft and very deliberate. Like he's practiced it or at least put an ounce of thought into what is coming out of his mouth. Maybe even confident

[@silvershadow013]

He was trained as a (Jewish) cantor.

[@katalystkatapatheticalyssa5987]

​@@jimlthorI wish I could sat I do even a small part of the same. Eloquently is captivating.

[@CovideosWatcher]

Fully agree. In scientific terms, it's called the "Ohwa'a'a'a!" speaking technique

[@dennisjungbauer4467]

@@CovideosWatcher I did not expect that, take my like. 😂

[@shelldonsilva561]

I so agree with David about using the anger with in to heal or motivate, but not anger in lashing out.

[@bobbys4327]

I feel his mental struggles is what brings out the feeling that his music has. What a very special person he is! I cannot listen to The Sounds Of Silence without it bringing me to tears.

[@burningtheworld]

I've been to a Disturbed show where the entire crowd at one point is moshing and headbanging one song, then crying the next. It's truly an experience. The music Disturbed has put out the last few years has been nothing short of emotional Rollercoasters, and that music is so much more powerful than anything else I've experienced in a long time. The last Disturbed concert I was at, I was wearing a tshirt one of my best friends made and he ended his own life many years ago. His family was in the arena as well, and I found myself bawling during the show. And it was the most amazing concert I've ever been to because of the emotions I felt.

[@marlasinclair2945]

100% agree! Well said.

[@EricRoberts-kw4zp]

I miss that. I have mobility issues, so no more mosh out for me.

[@chimera9812]

I could honestly look at and listen to his voice nonstop and on a loop. It’s so comforting and soothing! So glad he is cancer free.😊❤️

[@SargonnasIncarnate]

My words exactly! I love this man

[@brandyprickett168]

I was just thinking the same thing. His voice is soothing and comforting.

[@Rageniry]

Wow. I knew of his merits as a singer before, but this is the first time I've heard him speak. This entire video is a masterclass demonstration of verbal communication done right.

[@chrisbecker4412]

Every interview of his I've ever seen are like this!! He's incredibly eloquent! ❤

[@faleenamartinez8212]

As someone who suffers from depression in a family/community that doesn't even acknowledge mental illness...I can't say enough how much I appreciate you bringing awareness... gunalchéesh

[@DontCallMeScooterrr]

Wow, I didn't expect to watch this in one sitting. I've always been a casual Disturbed fan, but David blew me away with his devotion to his craft, humility, self awareness and kindness. I have a whole different respect now. Great job on the interview Elizabeth!

[@CMLee81]

I agree. I'm familiar with disturbed but not a big fan. He's so interesting though! Great interview.

[@ApocApocrypha]

Him and Corey Taylor are two very well spoken and "intelligent" metal frontman. Always a pleasure to hear him talk.

[@Wishpool]

And Tom Morello, too.

[@vin-metal5192]

@@Wishpool Rob Halford as well

[@tw1st3dw1ll7]

Alice Cooper and Dee Snyder are very intelligent also

[@MakotoTachibanana]

and Tobias Forge

[@pofruin]

Honestly Inteligent metalhead is more rule than exception in my limited experience.

[@derekreeves5403]

It's so fun to watch Elizabeth with anything involving David. She's so cute and such a fan girl. You can see the admiration all over her face for the talent he has. This is why this channel has become one of my favorites. Not just for her wisdom surpassing most of her peers, but because she is just so fun to watch ❤

[@crazymelomanka]

She looked like a schoolgirl in an authority's presence at the beginning of the video)) but it looked cute. Want to thank her so much for doing this interview and sharing it with us.

[@Senpaisaurus]

Oh my god she did it. ELIZABETH YOU ACTUALLY DID IT! HOW DID YOU GET HIM?! This was an incredible conversation to see, not to mention a really really well-conducted interview. I really am keeping my fingers crossed that his results come back benign and that he doesn't have any long road with this.. Great job and get one with AURORA next!

[@zippymacadoo6336]

Listening to David talking about his depression has me in tears. I've been in and out of therapy from age 4. I found so many who sat and watched me cry and had no help for me. I found a couple who helped somewhat, but no one I could tell me where it came from. I am 50 years old and am just figuring out how wrong my apparently perfect childhood was. Still can't find a therapist who knows how to help with CTPSD. The struggle is on-going and real. Thank heavens for KZbin where I have access to therapists with knowledge of my issues where I can learn how to help myself. Medications alone can't do it.

[@JDiamondW1]

My husband introduced me to Disturbed with the song 'The Sound of Silence'. I've fallen in love with the band and I can't get enough of the version they have made of this song. It brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it, it brings up so many emotions.

[@ChakasCave]

David Draiman is a childhood hero of mine. He’s so well spoken. Disturbed’s music has helped me through some really hard times in life. ❤

[@melanieswoolworkshop]

Amen 🙏

[@kfraz43]

I'm not a singer, but I loved it when they got into the technical aspects of their different genres. They both are outside of the "normal singer" realm, so this was really interesting to hear their perspectives. Felt like shop talk, which was so cool to hear.

[@metalmark1214]

Great that you got an interview with David Draiman. I always enjoy your Tea Time interviews Elizabeth.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Thank you, Metal Mark!

[@EricT3769]

I enjoyed every minute of it!

[@gokijin]

Every cover Disturbed has done has been a home run. Sound of Silence was a grand slam. "If I Ever Lose My Faith In You" was almost as good as "Sound of Silence." Saw him with Dragonforce in Houston and he stopped a mosh pit and stated he didn't want anyone to leave hurt. I was impressed with that. I was first introduced to him in Ozzfest back in 99 or 2000 and been a huge fan since. He's very articulate and intelligent. Every interview shows he just keeps growing and growing too. I can't say enough positive things about him and Disturbed. Huge fan! Thanks for having him!

[@violintipsandadvice554]

That was super informing and wow....what an academically refined chat. Elizabeth .. expert hosting...it was about David and what he can share, you let him talk. With both of you I felt I was in the presence of vocal gods and was so lucky to be allowed to listen. Bravo and thank you. ❤

[@timseguine2]

I listened to the album "Believe" on repeat for probably about 10 years after it came out. Something special about the way he sings feels like a window directly into his soul.

[@sorian5574]

I rarely sit back and listen to interviews, too often famous people are (or feel the need to pretend to be) too disconnected from the everyday person's lives. I really enjoyed this interview. David was very thoughtful and passionate with his reponses and of course Elizabeth was as excited to discuss topics as ever. That was wonderful!

[@robbieyoungman6358]

I saw how long this was and did not think I could make it, but he is so human and caring I watched every second. Imagine any other singer spending this amount of time responding and engaging. I cannot imagine anyone else this accommodating and real.

[@Trainwreck_Art]

1:28:54 You guys nailed it. My teenager was having a mental health crisis during the pandemic. Not one single mental health provider was available, and she was talking about clocking out of life. I ended up literally driving 14 hours, to another state, to get her into a clinic in the town where my mom lives. It's crazy that there can be any time where someone is self-harming, and literally on the brink of doing something permanent to themself, and the medical professionals will flat out refuse to help. I was very careful that my daughter didn't hear any of that herself at the time, because I couldn't imagine what it would do to her to be told her life literally wasn't worth their time.

[@EricRoberts-kw4zp]

Lack of access to mental health care is a huge problem. The Reagan admin totally decimated out mental health system...and with good reason. We had some American Horror Story level crap going on and it needed to be destroyed. The problem is that they didn't replace it with a modern mental health system. It's also why we have an addiction crisis. Addiction isn't a substance issue. If you don't have an addiction disorder, you can take what we call addictive substances all day and you won't get addicted. There is no such thing as an addictive substance. A heroin addict is just as likely to be a coke addict, a sex addict, a food addict, a gambling addict, an alcoholic, etc... it's all the same disorder. It's why some people can smoke for 20 years and just quit. Dependence isn't addiction ..that's just your body being used to having that substance in your system and when you stop using daud substance you get withdrawal. But once you get past that, if you don't have an addiction disorder, you are done. If we had proper mental health resources that were accessible to everyone, that would solve a lot of the issues we have going on. It's sad when you have to travel as far as you did to get help for your child. That is just criminal. No one, regardless of what mental health issue they have, should want for care ever. I am glad you were able to find help and I hope she is doing better. My son has issues and luckily the county I was in had resources at the health department, so he was able to get treated. I'm a disabled vet with mobility issues, so I don't know what I would have done had it not been for the county health department.

[@kimberlybeaman9360]

Oh my GOD! 😢😮 Thank you Mr. Draiman for your thoughts… your words on depression, addiction and getting help. I tried to take my life, not long ago... (my Higher Power had other plans). I tried to get into Treatment for alcoholism. I had no insurance and got too much money to qualify for state programs, but amazingly there were programs that would take me on a sliding scale. However, since I was considered “suicidal” they refused me. There is sooo much more to say, but I really just want to say thank you and Bless you for your experiences and your willingness to share. My mantra is “Right foot, left foot, Breathe”. 🙏💜❤️‍🔥

[@karenkuhne3724]

And keep going forward.😊

[@karyngoff20]

I'm glad you're still here. Much love to you....🤗

[@BlackbladeYT]

They say don't meet your heroes, and for most people I look up to I stand by that, but David Draiman is one of the coolest and most down-to-earth public figures I've listened to. Really glad to have gotten this interview in my recommended, especially since I'm going to their Raleigh concert tonight and I'm HYYYPPPED!!!

[@veteranhoffman6776]

I’ve actually met and talked with David, some friends and I got tickets to a show in my city that included a “meet and greet” with the band, they’re all a bunch of intelligent great guys. I’m a US Army Cold War Veteran, and as “starstruck” as I was meeting them, they told me they were grateful for my service……not “thank you for your service”, but “I’m grateful for your service”. Nobody but them have ever said that to me before or since. It meant more to me than all the “Thank You”s I ever got.

[@matttiggerward6147]

I already had huge respect for David for his vocal abilities , but this shows not only his immense knowledge and self awareness with regards his vocals but most of all it shows the immense integrity of the man. A singer by God and a blessing for the rest of us. 🙏

[@ricksturgis4451]

This conversation with David affected me on such a deep level it is unreal. I couldn't help but tear up listening to him and his raw passion behind every single one of his perfectly chosen words. His thoughts on mental health reached me in such a profound way I can barely put it into words. Thank you Elizabeth, and David, for taking your time to share such an amazing conversation.

[@robdendtler8056]

First, his enunciation is superb. I noticed how cleanly he speaks. It’s amazing. Second, OMG Elizabeth cracks me up. When he mentioned “Jedi” the spark in her eyes was noticeable. What a great interview

[@lisawinograd9366]

Just saw disturbed in concert and they never disappoint. I was joyous one moment and then sobbing the next after David was crying on stage, and talked about battling addiction and depression. I loved his vulnerability and amazing show.

[@mirandadurbin3418]

Disturbed has been on my bucket list to see live for more than 2 decades! I get to see them live next week in Denver with Breaking Benjamin and Jinjer! I am so incredibly excited!

[@Kiertiana]

I have seen both Disturbed and Breaking Ben multiple times. They're both amazing performances! You're going to have an amazing time!! I promise you that!

[@megandonaldson1354]

They are fantastic live. Ive seen them multiple times.

[@logankerlee]

Enjoy the show!! It's sure to be amazing!

[@Bobbias]

I've seen them live a couple times and they killed it every time. The energy is always awesome.

[@goatvoicestwin1859]

AWESOME!! I hope you enjoy! You are definitely in for a treat!🤘

[@jbcoker]

Praying for your long term health David. The world needs your voice in it.

[@melomaniac334]

Wonderful in-depth interview! David is full of so much wisdom and has a contemplative way of approaching questioning. I have always thought the world of him and had some great interactions with him in the past. Not only is he a unique vocalist, he is also a unique human - he's a very gentle soul - not everyone knows that about him. His vulnerability and honesty around mental health has served the music industry and fans well. He has no idea how many people he has touched and I know he will continue to do so. Thank you for this, Elizabeth! I was so excited the first time you listened to his vocals. Disturbed has been such a big part of my life and this interview was highly anticipated for me and you did an awesome job!

[@DanzilF]

I ended up here because I wanted to know more about David "not on stage". Wasn't disappointed. What a humble gentleman. I just wanted to say something about mental health, which led me to resign from my job 6 months ago to focus on my mental health. I feel like we're way way behind when it comes to mental health when compared to physical health. In my country, I could barely find professionals who are able to really help out. It feels like you need someone who has been there when it comes to healing mental health issues. Luckily it's not that much of a stigma as it used to me, but yes, the more well respected people like David and yourself speak about mental health, the better. Although I feel like we, across the ocean, have a slight advantage because we don't have to rely on insurance. But, anxiety literally took half of my life, I can't socialise as much as I want to, I stopped playing my instrument, I resigned from my job, I can't even think about doing a wedding cause that freaks me out. The pain is real and I appreciate you guys talking about it.

[@jackmanley1473]

It's amazing to me that Disturbed plays such dark, difficult music, yet if you go to a show, everything David talks to the crowd about is very positive & oriented around community. Still remember how kind he was to the crowd from seeing them during the Ozzfest 06 Tour. A very, very impressive human being.

[@scottsummers5994]

David is a pleasure to listen to, for such a big guy, he has a soft voice but a powerful message always. He is so smart and charismatic. He doesn't act like he lives the rocker lifestyle, he is just so down to earth, he reminds me of Keanu Reeves, sure he's a big star, but doesn't have the arrogance of one. Disturbed in general have come a long way, and I love when you listen to their albums, it's like a book, a clear beginning middle and end. For example, their album Believe, starts with Prayer, and ends with Darkness. Even a song like, The Sound of Silence was a great choice to end their Imortal album

[@lobo3928]

He really is music’s Keanu isn’t he? Just good people

[@Vro-]

Davids vocals in the Sounds of Silence is the most powerful thing that I've ever heard. The live Conan performance is my favorite and even though he was sick he performed like a superstar! I love listening to him speak, his humble and genuine nature with people. Hold onto memories is another favorite. I pray in whatever spiritual power you believe in that your journey into mental well being continues.

[@kazaroony]

Quite by accident, I began listening to metal just 3 years ago, and harsh vocals only in the last 12-18 months. As a 63 year old woman raised in a very conservative home and still mostly living that way, I had never ventured far from classical or pop. Elizabeth, your deep dives have opened my eyes even more, and your interviews have shown me that these amazing musicians are also wonderful people behind their public personas. In my early years the public persona was judged and therefore the individual was too, and I’m ashamed to say I did the same thing for way too many years. I have never listened to Disturbed, but this interview with David Draiman has me looking forward to doing so. What a delightful gentleman 😊. Thank you for helping me to fall more in love with music every day 💕

[@chrisbecker4412]

Disturbed has a lot of fantastic music! If you're not quite used to heavier stuff just yet, I'd recommend starting by listening to their Evolution or Immortalized albums first; there's more songs that are on the calmer side. Once you get a feel for things, start listening to their older albums-even with the "harder" stuff, a lot of the songs have incredibly deep and often painful messages behind them that are quite beautiful. ❤😊

[@kazaroony]

@@chrisbecker4412 thank you so much for your comment. I will take your advice. I’ve listened to Amaranth. I love Sabaton and adore The Hu. Also heard a little of Jinjer, Lorna Shore and Megadeth..

[@chrisbecker4412]

@@kazaroony Hey, that's awesome!! 🥰 You took the plunge & broadened your musical horizons. I'm glad you've been able to find some new groups to listen to. Also, if you ever want some good female rockers to listen to, Halestorm, Diamante & Eva Under Fire all have amazing female lead singers!

[@kazaroony]

@@chrisbecker4412 I came across lzzy hale when she did a collaboration with the Hu. Amazing voice and her contribution was perfect alongside the Mongolian lyrics and sound. So good.

[@rebeldarlin7]

❤❤❤

[@Nocturnis]

You are my reason to fight David. You, Mike, Dan, everyone in Disturbed are absolute legends. I've had the privilege to see you live twice and both times your music has helped me through some really hard shit this year. Thank you to all of you and what you do. Keep being a legend.

[@ArthursAtman]

David mentions that he is honored; I think he is deeply respectful on this front, and I feel Elizabeth Zharoff is also just showing great form; so I wanted to send my thanks b/c ya'll just been stellar peoples. Also, David you layin down some beautiful vocal tracks my dude...just, really stellar stuff man

[@VivaLaDnDLogs]

These interviews are such wonderful treasures. They never fall into the predictable trappings of most interviews because they aren't a press tour, it's a conversation between professional vocalists talking about the ins & outs of this strange, beautiful, often surreal world of music 🖤

[@terryherrick9784]

I love, love, love this interview. We not only heard from this fabulous artist, but we learned who this man really is and what he is all about and how caring he is. It was like listening to two friends having a personal conversation without all the usual questions and hearing about his every day life. It was so interesting and so much fun to listen to.

[@andydragon69]

I saw Disturbed a few times and saw them right after Keith Flint of The Prodigy passed from suicide. His incredible empathy, compassion and yes - anger at the unfortunate loss touched the audience in a special way. The bands openness and candid approach to mental health is powerful and helps so many people. Disturbed and David in particular are incredible humans.

[@zburton9636]

I am so glad David is still here. I miss Chester so much and David's beautiful self reminds me of Chester's gentle heart.

[@billparsons9119]

I just saw Disturbed on July 13 in Salt Lake City,UT. If you haven't seen this band, you must see them! What a powerful and emotional concert this was. Thank you for speaking to David Draiman!!

[@chadharris6625]

I just saw them in Raleigh. One of the best bands I've ever seen live! If not thee best!

[@suewolford9837]

I loved this interview, was turned onto David through Sound of Silence. I’m a 67 year old music lover!! How lucky are we to be alive at the same time that David Draimen shares the gift of his talent with us. Just a quick reminder to anyone who is struggling with mental health issues and you need help immediately, contact MAMI (The National Alliance on Mental Illness). You can get help right away, as my family did for my son several years back. Also, I recently went on a week long retreat at the Buddhist Monastery Deer Park near San Diego. It taught me to recognize and name my emotions and my reactions to them. Very helpful technique. I find myself saying “ Hello Darkness my old friend, I’ve come to talk to you again”!! Naming the emotion allows me to separate from the muddle in my brain. We have to support each other, it breaks my heart that so many suffer in silence. Ahhh, that song again. ❤

[@sheilawhitener3819]

Im 73 and love Disturbed and David I can FEEL their music

[@wooferdevlin3571]

Godspeed to David on his recovery. Benign is a blessing. How many layers of brilliant is Elizabeth's session? David seems like he does not suffer fools. Staying on task was huge. The breath control section really got him flowing, and got his respect. After the Mideastern vocalizations, he said "how astute" to notice. Then he was smiling, laughing and emotional, as well as thoughtful. Elizabeth called back the behavioral health issues, and David spoke freely with purpose. Recalling his Cantor time, he spoke with levity about a solemn situation. And talking about his son and her son, monstrously touching. Astoundingly real performance by both artists!! Message. ♫

[@victorespinoza6210]

This is what I love about rock and metal. There is so much detail and artistry in the music and singing and it's amazing listening to him talk about his craft.

[@s.wilson5199]

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 I just thought this comment needed more than on thumb up!

[@shalinbrown704]

This is phenomenal news. I want this beautiful soul and man to know he's inspiring and loved by so many. I'm so Thankful for you David. I will continue to keep you in my prayers. I've lived with several mental health diagnosis for 35 years. Thank you being you. ❤❤

[@MSK_76]

You did such a great job of listening! I have witnessed many creators have a great guest and then continually interrupt them with their excitement. Such a great job letting David speak and listening!

[@torquer9669]

The 'Sound of Silence' recording is truly what 'Lightning in a bottle' means. Very few performances in life touch ones soul like this did. Thanks to David, Danny and crew for sharing this with the world. I wish you a life of happiness wherever that takes you. ☮

[@sebastianperez1257]

David is already a legend and a pioneer i love disturbed. He is no joke. I just wanna wish him well i hope to see them soon

[@CactusChris]

This was a hell of an interview. I like that she actually let the man speak. So many interviewers interject and cut off their guests. Well done.

[@gingerallstot6572]

Elizabeth, it would have been so easy to interrupt or make a joke here and there in this interview. You had amazing restraint to allow him to say whatever he wanted to say. I think he really enjoyed and in fact became involved to a deeper extent in this interview due to your knowledge. I could feel and hear his respect of you. And vice versa. I don't think he would ever continue an interview just for the sake of the other person. Excellent job!!!

[@ChristopherW-st3zj]

I'm watching this and amazed with intelligence and serenity. Their covers of sound of silence, and land of confusion TRULY convey the emotions of the messages of the originals. And I'm old enough to know the originals as a youth. Keep coming with these excellent interviews!

[@tallonmetroids271]

When Dave got to how he's lost friends due to mental helth, my first thoughts went to Chester Bennington and Chris Cornell, and the tears just started flowing. In particular, I remember that morning in 2017 when 99.9 KISW (Seattle's primary rock station) announced Chris's passing. I'd just gotten to work, and had to hold my despair and sorrow in until I got home. There was anger in there too. The rage was at how unfair it was that his music did so much to help me, saved me, even, but he was still so broken up inside. He was still in so much pain despite how many people who loved him and he had helped with his music. I've accepted he's gone, but sometimes a song of his will come on, and I've gotta pull my car over and open the floodgates. Then Chester passed. I was still so mentally tired from what happened with Chris that I had to shut out the pain. I'm still getting to grips with Chester passing. With Dave, when I heard he was contemplating joing them, and decided not to, it brough me some bittersweet joy. I'm happy he's seeking therapy, but hurting because he's hurting, with all that's happened recently. It makes the Disturbed/Breaking Benjamin/Jinjer concert at the Whiteriver Amphitheater so important to me. I actively chose not to go to the last concerts Chris and Chester did in the Seattle area because I thought they'd still be alive for another tour cycle. It's grim, but I refuse to miss this upcoming show as long as it's still gonna happen. I'm not just going for me. I'm also going for Dave, even if I'm just another face and voice in the crowd. I'm gonna leave that venue mute and sore and 100% fulfilled.

[@runtwer5700]

Hearing his story about his tumor in his wrist is crazy because I almost had the exact same thing. I was in the army and all of a sudden, my wrist started hurting extremely badly. Went to the army doctor and, of course, he said I was fine and gave me ibuprofen. Kept going back to him over the course of three months and he basically just kept telling me to go away and eat ibuprofen. Went to a civilian doctor who took several MRI's and I took the results back to my army "doctor". He pretty much yelled at me for going to a civilian doctor and "costing the army so much money". He took the results, left the room and came back maybe 5 minutes later and told me he was going to send me to occupational therapy at the real army hospital on base. The therapist handled my wrist for about 10 minutes and told me I needed to see a specialist and scheduled me an appointment for the next day. The specialist took a look at my results and my wrist and told me on the spot I had a tumor and he would like to schedule me for surgery the following day and if I couldn't do it then, that it had to be done that week, at the latest. Had it removed the next day and thankfully it was benign. Took about 8 months from start to finish because of my stupid ass doctor and his damn ibuprofen.

[@ImAlsoMerobiba]

I'm glad to hear it had a happy ending. Sucks about all the stuff that happened on the way. Hopefully it's benign in David's case too.

[@DeusKDuo]

I see they went from Motrin to generics

[@runtwer5700]

@@DeusKDuo it was Motrin. Same thing, different name. Most people don't really know it as Motrin unless you're in the service or "prescribed". Everyone knows ibuprofen though, so easier to just say that

[@DeusKDuo]

@@runtwer5700 The good ole vitamin M

[@janw491]

His voice just wraps itself around you. I could listen to him all day

[@boggerman71]

This is the first interview I've seen with David Draiman, and so not what I expected. Brilliantly articulate person. And I love Elizabeth's expression. Watching her reactions to music adds a new layer of emotion and enjoyment to the music.

[@johncassinari9175]

Two amazing people talking about metal, mental health and everything in between and obviously enjoying it. Thank you for not only entertaining us, but enlightening and encouraging people along the way.

[@josequintana9617]

Thank you. David and Elizabeth addressing mental health raised my appreciation of them to an inconceivable level. I love these two 🙏

[@urbannomad8126]

David is so underrated. He is an excellent vocalist. Very powerful voice.

[@alanmedcalf8491]

It was David's version of Sound of Silence that lead me to begin to listen to Disturbed and now I'm hooked, he certainly knows how to draw his audience into each track . The song Save our last goodbye, very Powerful and emotional, awesome, very talented artist.

[@KhaleesiStJames]

Same here… their rendition of “Sound of Silence” is what peeked my interest. It was so powerfully strong yet compassionately spiritual! 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 Love David, and so now I am a follower more than a fan! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@douglasernst9477]

I love how he has the technical knowledge of his art of singing. Extremely in-depth explaining of his voice. Very entertaining.

[@justinmcgill4806]

Have been a big fan of Disturbed for years. Very glad you got the opportunity to interview this vocal legend, so soft spoken and full of wisdom