Ann Wilson teams up with Disturbed for a mesmerizing rendition of “Don’t Tell Me.”
“Don’t Tell Me,” a track from Disturbed’s 2022 album Divisive, features a striking collaboration between the band and Ann Wilson of Heart. This partnership emerged from the mutual admiration between Disturbed’s lead singer David Draiman and Wilson, who had both expressed high regard for each other’s work. The collaboration was sparked by Wilson’s praise for Disturbed’s haunting cover of Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence,” leading Draiman to invite her to lend her iconic voice to a deeply personal track.
The song “Don’t Tell Me” is a profound and emotionally resonant ballad where Draiman and Wilson’s voices blend powerfully, creating a compelling dynamic. The collaboration marks the first time Disturbed included a guest artist on one of their tracks, showcasing a fusion of Draiman’s intense, gravelly vocal style with Wilson’s legendary, soulful rock voice. This unique combination brings an added layer of depth and emotional intensity to the song, enhancing its overall impact.
David Draiman has long held Ann Wilson in high esteem, often citing her as the greatest female rock vocalist of all time. Wilson, for her part, has spoken about her admiration for Disturbed’s cover of “The Sound of Silence” and her excitement about participating in the project. Her involvement in “Don’t Tell Me” underscores her appreciation for the band and adds a new dimension to their sound.
The music video for “Don’t Tell Me,” directed by Matt Mahurin, visually amplifies the song’s emotional weight. It features poignant imagery, including the singers themselves and a silhouetted couple, which visually narrates the song’s themes of emotional conflict and longing. The video enhances the song’s mood and provides a compelling visual accompaniment to the track’s lyrical content.
Recording the song in California was a strategic decision to accommodate Wilson’s schedule, allowing the session to capture the natural chemistry between the two artists. The studio environment facilitated a productive collaboration, with Wilson’s contributions seamlessly integrating with Draiman’s powerful vocal delivery.
The song’s lyrics, influenced by Disturbed guitarist Dan Donegan’s personal experiences during a challenging time in his life, add an additional layer of significance to the track. Donegan’s emotional state during the songwriting process lent authenticity and depth to the lyrics, reflecting his personal journey through a divorce. His experience and Wilson’s contribution helped shape a song that resonates with listeners on a personal level.
Divisive, the album on which “Don’t Tell Me” appears, debuted at number 13 on the Billboard 200, selling 26,000 equivalent album units in its first week. This commercial success highlights Disturbed’s continued relevance and their ability to evolve musically while exploring new creative avenues. Ann Wilson’s involvement in the album not only marks a significant moment in the band’s career but also celebrates her enduring talent and influence in rock music.
Overall, “Don’t Tell Me” stands out as a powerful ballad that highlights the extraordinary vocal talents of both Disturbed and Ann Wilson. It underscores the ability of musicians from different generations and genres to come together and create something unique and memorable. The song’s emotional depth and the successful collaboration between these two rock powerhouses reinforce the timeless appeal of rock music and the enduring power of its greatest artists.
