The Jesea Lee Show #37 - David Draiman (Disturbed)
Mar 20, 2024
David Draiman, the distinctively voiced frontman of Disturbed, shares insights just before heading to New Zealand for shows. He humorously recounts the story behind his iconic piercings and shaved head, while passionately defending the authenticity of live music against backing tracks. The conversation touches on his admiration for newer artists, including Taylor Swift, and his excitement about collaborations, including their latest single 'Don't Tell Me' featuring Ann Wilson. Draiman also reflects on the evolution of their music from small venues to arena stages.
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Battling Illness On The Road
- David started this tour battling a sinus infection, laryngitis, and an abscess that reduced him to about 80% on good nights.
- He says the road's travel, sleep loss, and germ exposure make staying fully healthy very difficult.
Keep Core Parts Fully Live
- Avoid substituting live instruments with canned backing tracks for core parts.
- David Draiman insists he'll quit before faking live drums, bass, guitar, or vocals.
Had Oral Surgery And Still Performed
- David had an incision and drain (LND) under laughing gas and still played that night despite swelling.
- He says everything else can be broken as long as he has a voice to perform.