Disturbed And Ann Wilson Deliver A Stunning Performance In “Don’t Tell Me”

“Don’t Tell Me” is a track from Disturbed’s 2022 album “Divisive” featuring Ann Wilson of Heart. The collaboration came about when Disturbed’s lead singer David Draiman, impressed by Wilson’s praise for their cover of “The Sound of Silence,” invited her to duet on a song deeply personal to him. The result is an emotionally charged ballad where Draiman and Wilson’s voices harmonize powerfully over moody instrumentation.

David Draiman has expressed immense respect for Ann Wilson, considering her the greatest female rock voice of all time. Wilson, equally honored, mentioned that she and her husband were fans of Disturbed’s rendition of “The Sound of Silence,” making her enthusiastic to participate in this project. The song “Don’t Tell Me” is notable for being the first Disturbed track to feature a guest artist, showcasing a blend of Draiman’s and Wilson’s distinctive vocal styles that complement the song’s emotional depth.

The music video, directed by Matt Mahurin, further amplifies the song’s mood with poignant visuals of the singers and a silhouetted couple, enhancing the narrative of the lyrics. The collaboration was recorded in California to accommodate Wilson, and the studio session highlighted the natural chemistry between the two artists.

Disturbed’s guitarist, Dan Donegan, who was going through a divorce at the time, inspired the song’s lyrics, adding another layer of personal significance to the track. Donegan praised Wilson’s contribution, noting her professionalism and the seamless integration of her voice with Draiman’s.

“Divisive,” the album featuring “Don’t Tell Me,” debuted at number 13 on the Billboard 200 and sold 26,000 equivalent album units in its first week. This success is a testament to the band’s continued popularity and their ability to evolve musically while exploring new collaborations. Ann Wilson’s involvement brought a unique dimension to the album, marking a significant moment in Disturbed’s career and celebrating the enduring talent of a rock legend.

This collaboration not only showcases the extraordinary vocal talents of both artists but also highlights their mutual respect and the creative synergy that can occur when musicians from different generations and genres come together. “Don’t Tell Me” stands out as a powerful ballad that resonates with fans of both Disturbed and Ann Wilson, reinforcing the timeless appeal of rock music.