Disturbed frontman David Draiman shared a memorable moment from his Ozzfest experience in an interview with KLOS Radio’s Whiplash. The incident took place during their third Ozzfest when Ozzy Osbourne faced vocal difficulties.
“I think that one of the times that definitely stays in my mind that taught me that sometimes you just need to find the strength to push through was one particular Ozzfest — I think it was our third one — and Ozzy wasn’t feeling so well that day,” Draiman recalled. “He was having a little bit of difficulty. And I remember Zakk and Sharon coming over to me, asking me if I would be willing to take over the set.”
“No. They want Ozzy. They don’t want me,” Draiman responded at the time. “I haven’t rehearsed. I don’t know all the songs by heart. And she’s, like, ‘Well, there’s a goddamn teleprompter on the stage. Just read the words.'”
“I’m, like, ‘Yeah, well, it’s not that simple,'” he continued. “And then Ozzy had retreated back into his little vocal area, his little draped off area, and he was gargling and using a spray and trying to get himself clear. And he took a few more minutes and then he came back out and he started belting it out, and it’s like he pushed through whatever frog was in his throat, and his face lit up, and the energy immediately changed. And he ended up not only finishing the set, but I think playing an additional 15 or 20 minutes, and, and it was inspiring — it really was.”
The incident exemplifies the unique relationships and mutual respect among artists at Ozzfest, metal’s most influential touring festival.
Ozzfest Legacy
Documentation from historical Ozzfest records shows the festival’s role as a crucial platform for metal bands. The event has fostered numerous memorable collaborations and performances throughout its history. The 2003 edition featured a notable moment when David Draiman joined Memento for a special performance of ‘Stare.’
That same year brought another memorable highlight. Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul took the stage with Disturbed, showcasing the festival’s collaborative spirit.
Disturbed’s Rise To Fame
Industry data from official sources highlights Disturbed’s remarkable achievements. Their debut album ‘The Sickness’ has reached five-times-platinum status.
The band continues to make its mark on the metal scene. Their recent announcement of a 25th-anniversary edition of ‘The Sickness’ celebrates a quarter-century of influence in the genre.
Festival Impact
Ozzfest’s collaborative environment has shaped the modern metal landscape significantly. The festival has served as both a showcase for established acts and a launching pad for emerging artists.
The metal community’s ethos remains strong through traditions like artist support. Draiman’s interaction with Ozzy demonstrates this enduring principle of mutual respect and collaboration.
