Voice Teacher Reacts to Disturbed's cover of The Sound of Silence

Voice teacher Sam Johnson's reaction to Disturbed performing The Sound of Silence.
/ samjohnson
Product and book recommendations:
www.amazon.com/shop/samjohnson
I hope this observation on how he sings helps you figure out how the voice works better, so you can learn how to make smart choices in your own voice.
Go to www.vocalease.net to sign up for lessons with Sam through video chat!
Social Media:
/ oksamjohnson

[@gengraves8423]

You hit the nail on the head in regards to distortion. As someone who's been screaming and growling for nearly a decade, I can confirm that trying to brute force distortion or compression pushes the stress down from the rather robust vestibular folds (aka "false vocal cords") and into the much more delicate true vocal folds. It very much requires relaxing and leaning into it. Otherwise, not only will you get a horrible tone, but you'll likely mess up your voice over a pretty short time in ways that may require surgery to repair (if it's not beyond that point) if those poor techniques aren't corrected before established as habit.

[@vladdydaddy5197]

I feel this is a very simple way of singing, although the emotion of it is still there. Maybe it's me, but I've practiced this song since it was dropped and to me, it was easy to match and follow.

[@gengraves8423]

@@vladdydaddy5197 Oh, it certainly is quite simple from an anatomical standpoint, but it can be tricky to initially figure out how to isolate the false vocal cords, rather than allowing them to dampen the hoarseness in your voice as they typically do, and subsequently use them as a tool in more standard phonation. Good on you if you got it down without much trouble, though! It's always nice to hear when people seem to be able to avoid having to learn the painful way.

[@vladdydaddy5197]

@@gengraves8423 my hardest issue with it has simply been my range that low. It's like grabbing dowm to the bottom of a barrel that's only 2 feet tall. It feels deep, but in reality it's not even baritone.

[@fartblower4151]

I like cheese puffs

[@SaucyMuffins]

Gummy Bears is where it's at.

[@HLundstrom1]

I just realized I've spent 2 hours watching vocal teachers reviewing this song.

[@amiebower3231]

Me too ✋

[@ricardoa.rodriguezc.2398]

same

[@petersrensen4850]

Same

[@AudioArcturia]

DUDE fucking same

[@motsy15]

Yep

[@mortexerxes2642]

"--Disturb the sound--" "their name is disturbed" ... *chuckles intensify*

[@GaladrielOfLorien]

That part was adorable 😁 _giggles_

[@pinxied_]

He's such a sweetheart

[@CasacaraDFP]

My favorite part lol

[@annasim3651]

I started cracking up with him lolol

[@allhailmilkchoco5487]

I was looking for this comment 😂😂😂😂 THE PUN

[@LadyDragonsblood]

If you didn't know.... David Draiman was ill when he sang this. The producers "forced" him to use the auto-tune. I read in an article after the performance, David was NOT happy with them using auto-tune.

[@kimmyfreak200]

yah the studio version was different

[@kimmyfreak200]

he doesn't need auto tune..his voice has range its super powerful

[@jeanaporrin5662]

They didn’t force auto tune, Conan producers did it without his knowledge because he was so sick. After the song, David was pissed and apparently stormed off set.

[@maddy7]

Yes, I heard that too about autotune. Another musical reviewer, he (Fil) said David uses the microphone to his advantage. He also mentioned that David produces music. This dude definitely doesn't need autotune but with being sick, they (producers) as LadyDragonsblood mentioned and yep, David was furious as I mentioned, this is one dude who def. doesn't need that crap. I love David's vocal control. Loved your review Sam!

[@Mindfull88]

thanks for this info!!

[@tkomow2]

This guy rocks! I'm stuck in a rabbit hole of vocal coaches reviewing this song. Love the song!

[@anthonyfejeran1891]

The same.

[@philippeloquin5210]

Its awesome

[@addvantage3223]

Hahaha, ive been doing the exact same thing, i got on here to look at something totally different and clicked on one over an hour ago and have been watching them non stop since

[@cherylanndixon2237]

OMG Me too!!! just cant get enough, and im 53 lol

[@shawnbuckles5184]

Same

[@reopuraimu4962]

I like watching these and pretending I understand what you're talking about.

[@canadianroxy]

Same lol

[@Barb.....]

Lmao... me too

[@mrenice1262]

Lol 😂😂

[@maia2387]

yup

[@elbereth9121]

So me! Lol

[@staceytroffer8287]

I met David Draiman when they performed at the Roseland in Portland Or. During the meet and greet I mentioned to him that underneath all the RAWWWRRR voice. (What I call it) he is direct on pitch and had a beautiful tone. He lit up like a Christmas tree and said “‘thank you bubby, I have been singing for many years and I love it, it’s my passion”....... This is a man who’s been dying to sing a song like this where he can really show his vocal chops. Even though his career is built on RAWWRRR .......he’s a secret soloist in his heart. Lol.

[@voodoovixen666]

Well both in one is possible.

[@capngeeoff]

Disturbed does have some pretty ballads like Remember and Darkness :)

[@steventryon1791]

And he is fucking amazing.

[@ryantextor5162]

He did triple major in Political Science, Philosophy and something else.... can't recall... with a Bachelor's degree. I've never met him (I envy you) but I can tell when he speaks that he's extremely intelligent and very civilized. I've seen Disturbed 4 times and the time I remember most was in Chicago when their label surprise presented them on stage with an album plaque for 'The Sickness' and he took a shot and said something like [I don't normally drink before a show, but this shot is for you.] It was the single most ABSOLUTE BEST moment I've EVER witnessed in live music. No shit, people were crying in the pit, myself included, maybe-maybe not. From then on, Disturbed became one of the handful of bands of which I always buy their whole album the day it drops whether I've heard or like every song or not... and will be until they don't come out with anything.

[@devsox1]

If he actually called you "bubby" then that's fucking adorable. David seems like such a sweet guy, I'd love to hug him lol

[@wildkatz84]

He has both the voice of an angel and demon inside him.

[@CryptionProductions]

Stolen.

[@tomasstabilini4309]

And autotune 😂

[@PiousSlayer]

@@tomasstabilini4309 He doesn't actually need autotune.

[@muntee33]

Any genuinely honest person has both these traits. A true human being cannot be true to oneself if they try maintain just one ‘side’ The entire range of human emotion must be experienced, understood and controlled. Too much demon and you loose compassion for the people who need it and too much ‘angel’ and you loose the ability to recognise evil around you and protect loved ones, and others, from it... Without which, it will consume all that is good un impeded. Their are sheep, sheep dogs, and wolves. Be the sheep dog.

[@sandratcunha]

@@muntee33 Sure, we are half angel half demon. But not all of us can sing (I can't that's for sure). 🤙

[@dockworthydame5217]

I’m old enough to know and love the original version and I will never forget where I was when I heard this version. We were out for dinner and it played through the restaurant. I literally froze, turned to the speaker, closed my eyes and had chills. I’m sure I cried a tear but don’t remember. I still get chills. I’m sure my husband thought I had lost my mind not knowing what had affected me so much.

[@thereisbeautyinthisworld7251]

I have loved this song forever too. He told this through the composition and his wonderful voice

[@catchic0000000000000]

I first heard it on that 9/11 memorial video. So, of course, it brought in a whole bunch of other emotions.

[@kelleewolfe2834]

@@catchic0000000000000 they also do a pandemic version which is so stunning.

[@debibrewster9080]

I am old enough to remember the original. Simon and Garfunkle never made me cry. This version did, and not just one tear. I truly believe that (while David Draimen was not born yet) Simon and Garfunkel wrote this song for him. Of course they did not know it either.

[@donaldk.macbaird5248]

Just so you know Paul Simon sent David an e-mail saying that was the best cover of his song he had ever heard and that he loved it.

[@garfooledarbuckle3888]

*Zooms into him silently laughing at the fact that the band’s name is Disturbed*

[@Velocirarrptor]

I died.

[@od3910]

So cute

[@miserlou3075]

@Charlie Rothwill the fuck is wrong with you? how old are you? 5?

[@Waas]

@@miserlou3075 Nah, he's just trying to be edgy like most other idiots online.

[@amusedwave2840]

I laughed so hard lol. It was cute lol.

[@BloodyEsthel]

His voice fells like a warm hug.

[@user-pu6qe8hn4j]

that’s the most accurate description for it ever 🥺

[@bunnyfeng4635]

That's a really wholesome analogy

[@hadishashoudoueva252]

"Their name is disturbed *starts zooming in* ehe ehe ehe ehe ehe" I died😂👌

[@dragnridr05]

David HATES autotune, Only time he barely approves it is when he's sick and he was sick on that specific day. David can do the entire song without autotune.

[@lollershit]

I guess, he is down with the sickness

[@Da5kone001]

I mean I’ve seen a lot of sick or injured rock stars put on great shows I don’t think auto tune is ever the right call it’s super disingenuous

[@Dog3D]

I mean the official track on Spotify has autotune on it

[@kimmyfreak200]

i can tell he was congested a bit...but he was so careful and i'm impressed he sang so beautifully

[@jesswhatsername]

Yeah this one that everyone keeps using is a bad recording. It's such a great song.

[@XLadyFlameX]

I would like to see you do more rock/metal reactions actually

[@boogiebear3095]

XLadyFlameX me too

[@pinxied_]

Pls

[@tacsui2061]

Yeah. Do Myles Kennedy of Alter Bridge :)

[@toratora9994]

Definitely. I’ve been searching his videos and this is the only one I’ve found so far.

[@GaladrielOfLorien]

@@toratora9994 he only started doing reactions a few weeks ago and so far there's a huge number of kpop recommendations, but I suggested _female metal singers: expectation vs reality_ video yesterday and he liked the comment, so here's hoping 😁😁

[@tralee2006]

David is a heavy metal singer. The original song is a folksy one. Not to mention David used to be a opera singer/had opera training. He knows how to use his voice without all the energy. Makes this reindition eerie

[@melaniehorner6540]

He's a trained cantor. Not exactly opera. None the less, yes, he's had extensive vocal training.

[@Dwendele]

Actually he's a trained cantor (Jewish), not opera, but still takes amazing control. He even mention that when he was first figuring out how he was going to do this song, he had to dig deep and go back to that very training.

[@aj529]

very interesting! Love that!

[@aj529]

I'm loving your bravado all the time. So I think I'll watch some more videos!

[@dan6822]

Disturbed isn't heavy metal

[@PennsylvaniaBigfootProject]

I would love to see David Draiman as the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera. He could easily carry it.

[@gitruih]

pair it with Floor Jensen :)

[@renskedollekamp6392]

Sam actually reminds me of Raoul from the movie adaptation😂

[@kaytinamanatee]

Oh my gawwwwd YOU ARE SO RIGHT I NEED HIM AS THE PHANTOM RIGHT NOW IN MY LIFE

[@nurseashley8440]

That would be amazing.

[@Somealiencyanide]

THIS!

[@RNemy509]

NOTE: He was performing while literally sick, so his voice was not up to his standards...yet better than what 98% of the earth could muster😆

[@comickazii6629]

This is what reaction videos should be like I feel. Where random people can come research something they've seen and learn more about it from another person

[@TheWormzerjr]

click my name to watch unnatural dewsasters. spread. the elite are attacking us

[@phantomkate6]

Yeah! This video popped up in my recommendations and I'm so pleased. Maybe because I've been watching Dr. Hope's Sick Notes. If you think you might like the doctor-version of this genre, check him out.

[@maxmoreland3540]

What cool about this guy, is that he is a classically trained singer that turned to Heavy Rock. So most of this is natural sound.

[@captaincrew8494]

*funk singer. Actually. Weirder

[@kmcsoley]

System of a Down always blows me away.

[@cdreid99999]

You..seem to think that "heavy rock" (whatever that is) singers arent talented. That's.. crazy. As a comparison... some of the most talented guitarists alive play heavy metal...... just because they dont pluck clean simple shit.. doesnt mean they dont have mindblowing talent

[@maxmoreland3540]

@@cdreid99999 Love the positivity man. Theres differences in rock, or does Disturbed sound exactly like Kings of Leon? I never said he was bad, Its a funny detail that classical training, which is very different from what he does now. I love both the band, and this song.

[@kurnhurin4118]

In Disturbed's first documentary David explains he sought classical training as he had severely damaged his vocal abilities through a mixture of in-proper singing technique, alcohol abuse and smoking.

[@ExceptionalMediocrity]

His voice, in this song particularly, has the tone that a rich, medium aged bourbon tastes like; deep and complicated, with notes of charred oak, but with a smooth, sweet and simple finish from years of building into a symphonic mess of perfection.

[@jenisse1000]

You nailed man.

[@susancordeiro5005]

Perfect description of this man's obvious talent.

[@homefront3162]

E X A C T L Y!!!!!!

[@TheInnerTempleOracle]

Woah.

[@denaturner8871]

Well, now I want to sit around a fire getting drunk with Dave, listening to him sing until I fall asleep...

[@yeetusthefetus5759]

Fun fact: he did this performance while sick with the flu... I guess you could say he was down with the sickness;)

[@JamieSirensong]

👏👏👏

[@nicolerosenblum8152]

..."ooo ahahaha"...😏

[@faithshorthouse1064]

STAAAAHP 😅

[@sydneywellington22]

good catch! 😁

[@kathy-leew3989]

3:04 "~Disturb the Silence~~" "Their name is disturbed" *chuckles intensifies*

[@mcottrill23]

You are just really likeable and you can tell you know what you're talking about. It's no surprise to me that this channel has been getting more attention :)

[@roachcoachn9077]

Morgan YES!

[@trudy5963]

Yes, likeable as can be. And obviously, Brilliant.

[@veritymarie7139]

100% support your opinion here🙂

[@terraincognitagaming]

Atleast he isnt as faux as "The Producer" guy that does nothing but pretend.

[@shonna4545]

Totally agree!!

[@LP-vd3hn]

One of the best covers of any song ever.

[@ElizabethT45]

I agree!

[@ronlagasse5079]

It’s not tho

[@sharonsmith7749]

Massive goosebumps every time I hear this cover, its just beautiful

[@Laurabp4]

Land of Confusion is also pretty good.

[@RobbyTheMuffin]

I much prefer the original. It was perfect. Now no one plays it anymore because this cover exists.

[@laineemaupin]

I love how you’re so kind to artists and that you actually say what the artist is doings instead of saying that they’re bad of good. Like that’s. not. helpful. Love your videos. You, Tristan and Rebecca have helped my singing and my friends say I sound way better now ✌🏻

[@SamJohnsonVoice]

That's amazing ! I'm so glad you're noticing change in your own instrument !

[@TheOhLeahChronicles]

This song, no matter what, always gives me goosebumps because of how peacefully eerie it is. I love David's voice so much- especially in this cover because it has that warm sadness, almost like bittersweet emotion, where you're happy but you also don't realize you're crying. I have no idea if that makes sense to anyone else... it's one of those things where you can't really put your finger on the perfect wording for it? Shout out to the Big Fish shirt!!

[@sassyest8292]

It made sense to me! The overwhelming emotions ugh. We were blessed by this song/cover.

[@amayachannel4517]

.

[@stabulouskoda834]

Exactly you get goosebumps but you're warm from the inside and you're singing every word without realizing you're crying until you open your eyes and everything is blurry and you're shaking from your core because how absolutely powerful it is

[@thatweirdchickbecky4730]

This reply though 🖤 ... Very well said.

[@Samverine]

Very well said. Cry every time I listen to it.

[@nemoaddams5384]

For those of you who are abnormally concerned with it, the only reason autotune was used is because this was a live performance on Conan. Their sound person chose to do that. If you see Disturbed live at a venue though, he doesn't use it at all.

[@fibre1980]

I didnt hear/see the autotune. I even think its bullcrap that there is autotune.. Besides that. Even IF there was autotune.... He can do this easily

[@mikkohonkkila]

I guess that its a kind of a struggle for a audio-responsible dude to make the venue work in a perfectly A- game, however, I too think this distrbd guy could easily rip that part into shreds without the easy-leveled autotune working there in the background, but, it was the warranty, that the sound guy needed, to healthy get through another day at work, and we shall give it to him. offcourse. BTW: Sam Johnson I like yer channel wery much, its nice to hear professional points regarding singing, whilst listening to familiar sounds I grew up with, seems you do it quite easily, as yourself, and I'd like to encourage you to do the same furthermore! It's allways a mystery for us semi-shower-singers how people do these things they do with their mouths :) Greetings from Finland!

[@picket4015]

I've seen disturbed in concert 7 times. I wasnt even a Disturbed fan for most of them. (At the time I was skeptical of their commercial success.) Any way after several shows of crystal clear, well-balanced music I became a fan. If you've never seen Disturbed live I highly recommend it. Best show overall I've ever seen. And like I said I wasnt even a fan and wanted to not like them and they still blew me away.

[@aiwassmirko]

you can definitely hear the artifacts glides made by the autotune throughout the whole song. And I disagree about the fact he can nail the song without it. If the sound guy needed a warranty he would set it up very mild. But it was set up at trap-singer, Cher-in-the-90es, levels. Also, since you can hear the autotune correction throughout the whole song it means the autotune was working A LOT, not just to adjust some notes.

[@aiwassmirko]

it is also in the studio track, more transparent than this one but you can notice it several times. P.s. in the studio track you can edit 50 takes

[@rachelt.7408]

This dude's voice gives me chills. I dont feel this when anyone else dips in their low range. Amazing.

[@T0phatkid.]

“Their name is Disturbed 😁😁” the cutest comment/reaction EVER 🥰🥰

[@brettrobinson7486]

This is what a reaction video should be. Rather than someone just sitting there adding nothing to a video. You have taken a video reacted to it then given a responce or explained what and why

[@zyviec]

Well that was a random click that i honestly didn't expect to watch to the end. Really enjoyed it. Good work

[@Steef_Lee]

Same. This guy is really watchable and impossible to hate.

[@Samy.S]

Same here, I really enjoyed it and it was actually just a random click.. Glad I found it :)

[@toadman999]

same.. very good video

[@mistycook5294]

Me too. I just clicked because I love the song and Disturbed's version.

[@HJules-cw6fb]

I enjoyed it throughly. The reaction. the pointers. The break down. The performance. ALL great

[@kevinr2261]

I am not a singer at all, but this is really interesting and I never even realized how complex singing properly was.

[@dalepr69]

Something ive learned as ive gotten older is that almost every thing in life is FAR more complex than it seems on the surface. There is a professional for almost everything and i love hearing professionals explain their trade. Its humbling to know just how much you don't know about things that seem so mundane.

[@elr1cbros]

Skeptic there is so much truth to your comment. Well said, friend.

[@hannahbretscher4031]

This is just scratching the surface 😂 I don't know a lot but I know more than the average person since this past winter I got my associates in music as a voice major

[@9yearoldepicgamersoldier129]

@@dalepr69 I feel the same way

[@thereisbeautyinthisworld7251]

Likewise. 😂

[@lavendermadison8471]

This version of Sound of Silence brings tears in my eyes every time I hear it. The way David’s voice builds up to the finale. Gosh! Words can’t explain it. You just have to let it in and it takes over your mind and body! Man! He has some amazing pipes! That voice and those piecing eyes

[@InCaseYouDie13]

He and other famous screemer/rockers are taught by Malissa Cross to do the screaming without tearing their vocal cords. She teaches what she calls The Zen of Screaming. She has background in opera and other things I can't really remember now, but you should look her up its actually pretty interesting how she teaches and how they learn from her.

[@SamJohnsonVoice]

Melissa is a fantastic teacher and top of the field with distortion.

[@InCaseYouDie13]

Actually if I remember right in the two DVDs she was teaching some of the famous screemers/rockers on them. She is just so cool and it's funny to her teaching these guys the right techniques. She is not at all what you would expect.

[@InCaseYouDie13]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qaG9iIStrbN-fsk

[@SamJohnsonVoice]

Yeah almost everything I've learned about distortion has been from Melissa's videos

[@InCaseYouDie13]

@@SamJohnsonVoice yeah she is awesome, I'm actually a Metal fan but got into Kpop through Big Bang and they're so good. G Dragon has such a unique voice. I just love all diff. Kinds of music and I like your video's and how you explain some of the reasons why they chose to sing their songs or parts that way.

[@kateprout150]

I love how raw you are. Like, “yes that’s auto tune, no I don’t care” like, let your opinion be heard. Love that.

[@jonasc1221]

Shouldn't it bother him as a voice teacher though? If a computer does half the singing, what's the point in analysing his voice?

[@UberPwnageHD]

because the whole song isnt auto tuned,

[@thomasfrazer8934]

Part of his point was that the computer isn't doing half the singing in this case. Just a little smoothing.

[@jonasc1221]

If autotune is as obvious as it is in this performance, then it's doing more than it should. His voice sounds robotic at times. Try listening from 0:48 to 0:58 (listen multiple times, you'll feel sick). I suspect the vibrato in "silenceeee" is also computed - apart from sounding very robotic it's also shitfting at a pace of 1/16 (same as the vibrato at the end). It's just too much.

[@swagmuffins9559]

Jonas Charif I take it you’ve never heard David sing unplugged. His vibrato sounds exactly like it does in this song. You cannot add vibrato in that way, instead the “autotune” he talks about here is in fact note smoothing. If David knows he can’t hold a certain note before another, he’ll opt for autotune to help transition smoothly from one note to another. Nice try, though.

[@regorf]

He was trained as a kid to become a Cantor. In my opinion, David has the 2nd best voice/range in metal after Corey Taylor.

[@thatgreengirl7791]

Agree. Corey is underestimated.

[@wanderlustqueen13]

I got to meet David Draiman years ago after a concert. He and the whole band took time to talk personally with those of us that stuck around. They were so nice, SO NICE!!! one of their roadies had some trouble with a cart of gear and they helped him get it on the bus. It was really wonderful. Sam is just as wonderful. I love everything about this.

[@Nyctophora]

Well, the thumbnail looks like an angry man who might start shouting, the actual video is a lovely man talking very constructively and in a complimentary fashion. What a pleasant change :)

[@rckstr1123]

It's clickbait... *_b u t t h e o t h e r w a y_*

[@timothylegg]

I paused it to pull the kettle off the stove. He does have a somewhat horrified look at precisely 2:19. Didn't notice it until I was walking back in the room. My voice does need help, so I'm following this guy.

[@zacharyhinkle1002]

Ibid

[@6Fiona6_P_6]

A lot of people write off Heavy Metal/Heavy Rock/Alternative Rock artists as untalented, run of the mill, tone deaf ect ect ect. You'd be surprised just how much Real Talent these True Artists possess. One thing this proves is David Draiman can more than just merely hold a tune. He can really sing 🎤

[@ReyOfLight]

Indeed, it takes a lot of voice to be able to both sing and do the heavy metal screaming, and David is amazing at both!

[@Justin-nq6kf]

Ya and those people are just ignorant when it comes to the genre thats all

[@Dawesome97]

He was classically trained and many people dont understand that the classical training and everything he has done before really helps with heavy metal and rock singing. People always wonder how bands like Disturbed and Five Finger Death Punch and Slipknot can do those low graspy sounds and not hurt their voice and be able to continue doing it for a 2 hour show, it's because of their training as well as them knowing how to distort their voice without putting pressure in their vocal chords and causing stress in them. Anybody who tries to do those heavy sounds without training can tell you it's hard as hell to maintain

[@jennamariedicks]

Danny Worsnop is a good example of this. When he was in his earlier days getting proper vocal coaching his swigging voice, range and distortion were to die for (whether you like Asking Alexandra or not you can't deny his voice was incredible) when he started to party more, care less about himself and the band he tore a vocal chord and is now unable to ever sound like he did because of lack of technique and care.

[@jennamariedicks]

Singing now swigging.

[@ourempire13]

Disturbed opens his mouth and awsomness just falls out

[@larryl3706]

lol i wouldnt go that far geez he's mediocre at best. Real artists such as Robert Plant, Roger Daltrey, Roger Waters, David Gilmore, Hendrix, Beatles etc. Do not need help from a computer, and Simon and Garfunkel did that song also without autotune and sound so much better.

[@Graphaeli]

+Larry L L

[@pinketernal6531]

@@larryl3706 You're so uneducated. You do realize that autotune on this performance was given without his consent because he was ill, right? Of course not, cause if you did, you wouldn't be spewing hot trash on your keyboard. See the guy live, he's a classically trained singer, and can easily do this same performance without autotune.

[@denaturner8871]

Disturbed = Band. David = lead singer

[@myothergem]

Larry L thats why we don't need an expert to analyze or teach or us about singing.. we either like it or we don't. The guy entitled to his opinion, and you are too but i dont agree with u because there is no science to this. This is such bs

[@verkpunk]

Dammit I'm back on vocal coach KZbin.

[@14pandagirl]

Your videos are addicting because there’s something raw and real about you that’s hard to come by on KZbin lately. It’s also very apparent that you know what you’re talking about which is also rare.

[@alexisrenteria5880]

On my 6th video lol

[@jnnlis]

Well put. He’s authentic.

[@Cuasimodo2372]

Ikr I know shit about singing but I love these videos for this reason. The channel is real

[@H3xx99]

David Draiman actually got professional voice training shortly after he joined the band because he was singing so hard he was giving himself acid reflux...

[@SkywardSquittle]

Hexx Bombastus Interesting

[@AlphaXbot]

He actually still has acid problems but he has to keep to a strict lifestyle to keep his vocal cords safe

[@JUNKO____]

he was singing so incorrectly he was giving himself acid reflux. You're doing something wrong if you're damaging yourself.

[@H3xx99]

Ectoplasmic36 That is true of damn near anything that people do, from sex to extreme sports. If it hurts, you're doing it wrong.

[@annemontgomery3890]

Was also going to comment about the training. He's said in interviews early on that his screaming at performances was wearing down his voice and that he was taking a break to learn how to do it properly

[@aivryjett29]

Just saw Disturbed perform live. David was getting over pneumonia and still sounded incredible. He's consistent and amazing live.

[@heavensennamon1938]

This song always gives me chills. As someone who suffers from depression (amongst other things) I can actually FEEL the lyrics.

[@justsomeone862]

you had about 40k subscribers when I subscribed a fey days ago and now it has doubled. I'm so glad people are discovering your channel, you create great content, your reactions are honest and you actually teach us about singing.

[@AlizaJayne]

justsomeone862 exactly!

[@ReonCaes]

I subbed at 2k like 2 weeks ago, its crazy how fast hes growing

[@dicemarta]

It's thanks to his reaction to kpop performers. Kpop fans are obsessed with everything related to kpop.

[@deeznuts4703]

dicemarta i want to disagree but that's literally the reason I found this channel 😂

[@justsomeone862]

It’s also how I found this channel, I don’t think it’s a bad thing to watch videos about something you like I mean we’ve found the most likeable voice teacher on youtube thanks to it :)

[@123454321Jose]

Could you do more reaction to metal or rock vocalists? They are awesome and they often not get covered by singing channels

[@morgueann12]

I agree. Metal singer reviews would be excellent...gothic metal has a lot of strong vocalists. Also, I'm a new sub! I very much enjoyed the videos I've seen after doing a mini binge.

[@Missab4000]

A Led Zeppelin or The Doors reaction would be amazing.

[@adamsmith7883]

For a rock/metal vocalist, you cannot get better than Devin Townsend. His song "Kingdom" would be a good one. There's a live version where the female back up vocalist is singing live with him, which is cool since she's not actually in the band, she is just on the record and occasionally does a show or two. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJu9m62fpM2UhsU

[@calboye]

i think u can, probs just coz i dont like growls

[@yamaheris3]

Agree! Your reaction videos are more informal then just a reaction. Would be awesome to watch Metallica - Sad but true Ghost - He is Static X - Cold Slipknot - Psychosocial Gojira - Ocean Planet

[@ellienesmith4016]

He is also classically trained!! He has the most perfect voice to me! He's amazing!!

[@cherbrowne1637]

David's beautiful rendition of this song has caused quite a stir. I HAVE to listen to it every day. Love it 😊

[@denniswebster1048]

I know nothing about singing and am definitely not a good singer. However, I cannot stop watching your videos! I feel like I am learning so much about singing technique, in all of it's intricacies, and it's fascinating! I may never be able to put it into practice, but hearing you break everything down is very entertaining and insightful.

[@ladyhush_]

Same. I just binged on his videos lol

[@brittaintrave3110]

Agree 💯💯

[@falxonPSN]

@@Cypresssina whoa! You sing like me???

[@Hailz12211]

Same. 4th video today

[@charliepreidis3004]

You never say anything negative. You dissect the performance, analyze each note, and occasionally give examples with your own voice. I love how you do your videos. Also, it’s awesome that you watch live performances rather than heavily produced recordings. Very glad I stumbled upon one of your videos. Subscribed!

[@MikeWeiner]

I have watched a TON of reaction videos to this particular song as I feel he redefined this song. I love this version more than any other I've ever heard and your analysis was so insightful, so textured with details as to why it sounds as good as it does, and how he was able to make the performance so spectacular. I thank you...of all of the reactions I've seen, yours is the absolute BEST! Thank you for this video.

[@ilike2watch66]

He did a good job vocal coach wise, My only problems he was so focused on his pitch and tone that he didn’t take IN the song. So we got zero reaction emotion wise, like in so many others. And the constant pausing doesn’t help for him to actually listen to the song. He’s also the first person to stop it before it was over, because he wasn’t actually listening to the lyrics. By far not the best reaction video, IMO anyway

[@vlthk]

Little do people know that secret to his distortion is the metallic goatee that he has.

[@FyreFlye23]

I really, really wish my vocal coaches in college would have even explained the basics of how lip (mouth) position help attain and sustain notes. I'm learning more from your videos than I did as a music major in college.

[@jeremyflippen3484]

I just with my music teacher didn’t tell me to lip sing in the back behind the curtain.

[@hannab129]

Wow! They didn't tell you that even though they were real voice teachers? Or 'just' music teachers? 🤔 It's like the easiest way to achieve notes that don't come that easily to you. I wonder if they didn't know themselves? 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@artistryartistry7239]

I love the look of intense concentration on your face as we see your mind processing and analyzing what's going on. That's so cool :)

[@simpleman7516]

or GAY

[@sfckrbec]

Man, it was so gratifying to hear you use the words 'relaxing into it'. I played trumpet and taught professionally for over two decades and with each of my students I would harp on relaxation using those exact words. Music is hard enough mentally without adding any physical barriers, but with students and professionals alike I see so many people adding those physical barriers and resisting getting rid of the tension. The goal of any instrument is to imitate the voice and it's great to see another instructor no matter the instrument being taught focusing on relaxation. Thanks.

[@timeB4being]

Gives me goosebumps everytime I hear this man sings, love Distrubed

[@ArtSzabo]

As a trained rock and metal singer myself I have to say I love your channel and the way you describe the art of vocals is almost poetry. I would love to see your opinion on vocalist Maynard James Keenan of Tool or any of the more rock side of vocals. I think alot of singers get bad rap because of the heat and distortion they put on the top or bottom end of the vocal.

[@drummersfault]

Was hoping to see this comment. I would love to see some heavier vocals analyzed.

[@__Hyde__]

I’d love to see some real metal bands reviewed. Pretty much nothing played in the radio.

[@sheri0082]

Yesssssssss

[@carolineschofield5811]

I love you seem him critique Maynard. I absolutely adore his voice it would be so interesting to hear a professional view point on it.

[@roseannhendricks2343]

I second, or 7th? this!

[@carl-ok9gn]

Draiman's ability is incredible. People who know a bit about voice are blown away by his ability to distort while remaining perfectly controlled. He doesn't strain. He has great tone and timbre and can shape vowels. He is often overlooked by many because of his music style, but his skill is exceptional. everyone on idol, the voice, or x factor tries to stand out as unique, but they just sound like indie copies. I haven't heard anyone else who sounds like Draiman. Maybe Ryan Clark from Demon Hunter, but his is grunge seems forced.

[@cristiannuques1718]

grr ummmpee exactly!

[@RobertSmith-lg7jp]

Draiman is the Eddie Van Halen of Metal vocalist .

[@jensholderle9629]

I am no pro. My opinion is therefore that of someone who only consumes music. But I can't listen to Disturbed version of Sound of Silence. To me, it sounds forced and like a voice version of overacting. Pressuring to sound "metal" or something like that. Suum cuique. This is not my kind of music.

[@LostFelidae]

grr ummmpee Thanks, I agree with every word..

[@TheDeridor]

I have seen distrubed in concert one time, and i really wasn't impressed by their live sound. I still enjoy them now and again.

[@jesswhatsername]

I've heard him live and acoustic and it was still just as beautiful, deep, and powerful. Major goose bumps everytime.......

[@tristinlouise6146]

You are the first person I've seen listen to this and immediately laugh at the "Disturb the Sound of Silence" line. I appreciate that. (It's hilarious)

[@anavlas8626]

It s so cool that you can comment on so many different genres. You re the best i ve ever seen on youtube. Keep up the good work, you re crazy good 😮❤️

[@Evedna]

I love how much you enjoy doing this. The look on your face when you really love something, you can't fake that kind of passion. Thanks, glad I found your channel.

[@Sloozer45]

I don't know how widely known it is that the singer for Disturbed has publicly, in interviews, addressed the claim that there is some auto-tuning: he states there is NONE, that only technique is used. He also says, in so many words,basically that this is, so far, his vocal masterpiece. He combined his early vocal training and earliest classical style to this piece, getting fantastic result.

[@merrileelane4085]

This is the best cover I have ever heard.

[@GalasnoR]

Are you familiar with metal singing/screaming techniques? Will you analyze some metal vocals in the future?

[@nunpho]

That would be really cool!

[@akmetalhead95]

Yesssss that would be awesome

[@ashenstrokes]

yess

[@eFFeeMMe]

Speaking of which, can you analyze Mikael Åkerfeldt's voice from Opeth? I found it really interesting how you compared David Draiman's clean and distorted voices, and Åkerfeldt's probably has many of the same strengths, except he goes (at least he used to) more to the far end of distortion.

[@BrianAndersonTT]

I wondered this very thing when I first saw how good he was.

[@r.j.6556]

I am not a singer nor have any real need to be educated on this topic. HOWEVER, I thoroughly enjoy listening and learning as I find it really fascinating, and you do a great job with your explanations. Keep up the good work!

[@ZakkHazard]

For a man that has blown out his vocal chords a few times he can still sing amazingly. David is definitely one of the most unique singers that is hard to replicate. He did a very good job of covering this song.

[@jamiehrtnll]

I really like this guy. You can tell he's a genuinely kind and passionate person. It's refreshing.

[@beyondtheradio]

A good low range singer who could've killed this cover is Peter Steel from Type O Negative. His voice was so low that they played in drop B which is literally insane. Most bands play in standard E. So sad he died.

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

+Beyond the Radio aw that is sad :(

[@beyondtheradio]

Don't do drugs, kids!! Cocaine + being 6' 7" = heart attack :(

[@toratora9994]

I’d love to see Sam analyze Peter Steele’s voice.

[@icantsle3p]

rip pete :(

[@nunpho]

@@beyondtheradio I thought he was taller than 6ft 7!

[@JenRose1593]

I don’t know how I got here but I’ve fallen down a hole and am obsessed and now subscribed lol

[@bunnyfeng4635]

I envy David's voice so much. Always so smooth and warm, even when screaming.

[@tothe-321]

Disturbed’s version of this song is my all time favorite.

[@ghillies4life]

I saw an interview with Draiman where they asked where he found a lot of his style, and he say from being a cantor in his synagogue. Perhaps that's why he can get that evenness while changing pitch. And maybe why he can have high in the throat guttural sounds because he's used to singing in Hebrew.

[@kathrynt5899]

I was kind of thinking along the lines of those monks that make that unusual sound (in their nose?) But being a cantor is a totally great explanation!

[@haleywilson520]

Whoa! I had no idea he was Jewish or that he had a background as a cantor! That's really cool.

[@eskimoprime09]

What if I told you the Star of David is actually right there on the Believe album?

[@DreadKyller]

The band contains members of many religions and their logo is actually a combination of the religious symbols for all of them.

[@DesertRatPainting]

@@eskimoprime09 I mean so is a cross, crescent Moon and pentacle though.

[@slayrae872]

the little nod after everything is making this so much better

[@shilohivy4590]

This is such a gorgeous performance. He’s mesmerizing

[@chroniclesofeeveewaltham9396]

Holy crap what happened! You sucked me down the rabbit hole! I watched one video and ended up binge watching them all!!! You have a new subscriber. I am not a singer but I found you really interesting. Thank you

[@asingh386]

I'm not a singer either but i love these videos. My favorite reaction videos on KZbin for sure.

[@sparklywastaken1426]

Same! On my 8th video in a row now. I’m compelled.

[@kaki4forks]

I did the same thing today!!

[@ashleyking5736]

Ive been binge watching off and on for several days...hes so pure about his feedback...he appeals even to those of us who dont sing...he reminds me of the glow of a campfire..it just makes a happy bubble

[@ImJagar]

Same! I'm somehow a hour and a half in lol

[@EarlSwigert]

Actually, David Draiman says that despite what people think on this performance, there is no autotune or pitch correction on his voice. He has a a very unique singing method and that is all his voice.

[@tdog2860]

He also put a lot of time into opera.

[@duckystudios2564]

Draiman

[@HunterBelkiran]

Oh wow - i totally thought it was autotune. That is amazing to know.

[@joshburns1777]

I listened several times to that bit and didn't think it sounded like autotune. Thanks for the confirmation.

[@kittenswithketchup]

I was gonna say the same thing. David is known to be absolutely, completely natural.

[@yriverspelle]

I stumbled upon these videos only today.. I really enjoy how well things are broken down mechanically. Very professional and informative. So many critiques are very subjective. He also seems so very attentive. A wonderful quality in a voice teacher... Its also nice how positive he stays in his observations.

[@ladycrayon608]

I've watched a couple of your videos now, and I have to say I am absolutely amazed at how humble and open minded you are. You don't seem to give in to whatever hate or hype there is for each individual singer or band (or techniques) that you analyze and react to, but rather keep it entirely about the music and give an unbiased insight. It's definitely a breath of fresh air as far as KZbin goes. ♥

[@aprilleerose]

He’s a wonderful soul ♥️

[@mikeblanchard4145]

Gaddamnit Sam, you set the standard for what expert review/reaction videos should be. Excellent.

[@hurdurr7466]

Mike Blanchard real talk

[@mitchellstewart3842]

“Their name’s Disturbed” I don’t know why I laughed so hard at that 😂

[@charlizemoon257]

I see were ur passion is. Ur the only vocal couch I've watched that actually stops and explains every detail. Ur not just saying EH that was ok or I loved it ur actually explaining it.. UR teaching! I'm actually getting it to. I like ur personality I like ur variety of music. Def new sub. ✌&❤

[@BeardiusMaximus]

I must've seen over a dozen of these "vocal coach reacts" to this song, but your breakdown is BY FAR the best out there! The fact that you so obviously understood the process behind the vocals while making your explanations clear to a layman is commendable. Very well done, sir

[@lann7707]

Whenever I hear David Draiman the phrase "mature singer" pops in my head.

[@cathyrose3762]

They always said it was Dave Grohl that was the nicest man in music... Sam Johnson, I think you may just have beat the myth, the man, the legend!!!!

[@SamJohnsonVoice]

I love Dave he can hold on to that title

[@cdreid99999]

you may be right

[@ripper82]

I'm surprised you didn't point out how smoothly he transitioned out of the distortion midway through "tenement halls" at 6:19, ... you said "that's cool" when he did it, but didn't talk afterward about how nicely controlled it was.

[@CandyGirl44]

The official video is a totally emotionally overwhelming experience - I got chills the first time I heard and saw it, and I'm addicted to it.

[@twilite4321]

You are awesome! I like that you don’t bash the songs, but give very informative and interesting critique. It’s a breath of fresh air from the others who just trash the songs or videos. Great work, keep it up!

[@Ace28233]

Ive never cared about any of this before, I was just sucked into a KZbin black hole and found myself upon this video. You made it very interesting. I actually watched a few other vids of your too because of that.

[@erloriel]

Same here man. Really well made videos that just spark an interest in the subject matter.

[@Ace28233]

@@erloriel Yep, I ended up subbing because his other vids were good too.

[@FernandoGarcia-xc5xy]

That damn youtube vortex

[@HorribleOracle]

Black hole? You were curious, following the White rabbit down the rabbit hole. Welcome.

[@TracyBigaMacLean]

Ace and juicy .

[@Linerwood2000]

I like how your enthusiasm pitched up as the voice was getting higher. It fit! Nice explanations, i'm addicted to voice teachers reacts because it's super helpful and interesting. Thanks!

[@katieamarsh]

I have watched this so many times. I know nothing about singing but your channel chills me out when I’m stressed.

[@Mani-ld8mg]

I always used to listen to it before going to sleep, just because his voice is really soothing to me

[@boogiebear3095]

Byunshook. It really is. This song is simply beautiful.

[@tammyt3434]

Does anyone else want to remind the voice instructor to 'breathe' when he gets excited? =D

[@SamJohnsonVoice]

Me

[@leahsrichards]

Sam Johnson Listen.

[@iamtheoriginal9142]

No.

[@ronson3161]

I can tell you're a true student of vocal science. Very engaged and passionate. I'd get lessons from you for sure if I were trying to be a vocalist. Well done sir.

[@CatDavid0520]

I love these videos. I really feel like I've learned something about singing/vocals. I know this video is a few months old now but I really look forward to so much more in the future. 😁

[@RGInquisitor]

You look like one of those background elves from the Peter Jackson Lord of the Rings trilogy.

[@headoftaxreformandpercenta4908]

That's a hell of a compliment. Elves are the best :)

[@Fr3k3]

he kinda does lmfao

[@JimboDoomface]

lotta serious comments down here. Then this gem.

[@noahhurley-abelew6536]

Are we really at a time we can't just say Lord of the Rings??

[@avyatorsaurus]

Oh man I was wondering if I wasn't the only one thinking that! :D

[@silasstryder]

3:03 "heh their name's disturbed" wasn't funny, but your reaction and zoom in made it pretty funny.

[@msia7201]

It was hilarious

[@superturboawesome1]

"That's the joke" "You suck McBain!"

[@MFWb00bi3s]

you should be a comedy teacher bud! put sum vidyas on the youtoobers.

[@diesel2x]

exactly..

[@swigs04yt95]

I love how he was just sitting there laughing

[@keriharguess5584]

His cover of this song makes my soul feel like it’s going to JUMP out of my body... in the best way possible.. like every emotion exploding all at once 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤️❤️❤️

[@greglancaster9053]

I’ve been watching a ton of reaction videos, and your descriptions of what’s occurring is the best I’ve seen. Your heart as a teacher really shines through. Fantastic and informative job, Sam!