Disturbed’s David Draiman Calls Tom Morello “Shameful” Over Kneecap Support

David Draiman criticizes Tom Morello’s backing of Kneecap, calling it shameful amid ongoing tensions and debates around the band’s political stance.

David Draiman Brands Tom Morello “Shameful” for Supporting Kneecap

David Draiman, the lead singer of Disturbed, has publicly condemned Tom Morello, calling him “shameful” for his vocal support of Kneecap. The Irish rap trio has stirred controversy for their outspoken political messages, especially their support for Palestinians, which Morello praised.

Earlier this week, Morello went on record calling Kneecap “clearly the Rage Against The Machine of now,” applauding their courageous stance against power structures and their fearless advocacy for the Palestinian cause.

“What they’re doing in their art is what people could probably stand to do more in their lives: to really speak truth to power. And, you know, Kneecap are not terrorists,” Morello said. “What is terroristic is, you know, 20,000 dead Palestinian children. That’s the story. Not some Irish rappers who don’t like that that’s happening. [That] should not be the story.”

Draiman’s Sharp Response on Social Media

Reacting sharply to Morello’s comments, Draiman took to social media, posting:

“Shameful. Truly.
Wish I could say I was shocked.
Guess my family doesn’t count, when it comes to my ‘friend’s’ virtue signaling for those who support terror, and incite Jew hatred.”
— David Draiman 🟦🎗🇺🇸🇮🇱✡☮ (@davidmdraiman)

He added further:

“Wish I could say I was shocked. Guess my family doesn’t count, when it comes to my ‘friend’s’ virtue signaling for those who support terror, and incite Jew hatred.”

Draiman, who is Jewish and a staunch supporter of Israel, has not shied away from expressing his views amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Draiman’s Stand and Controversial Farewell Show Incident

Earlier this month, Draiman performed at the ‘Back To The Beginning’ Black Sabbath farewell show in Birmingham, a concert organized by Tom Morello. Despite his intentions to honor Black Sabbath, he was booed by some attendees.

Addressing the crowd’s reaction, Draiman said:

“As you can see… I wasn’t ‘booed off stage’ as so many people in the press and CERTAINLY #FreePalestine crowd, would have you believe. Yes, there were a few boos when I walked out, but I came to pay homage to my teachers, my idols, the mighty Black Sabbath, and I wasn’t about to let a few Jew hating morons deter that.”

He concluded passionately:

“And I am STILL UNAPOLOGETICALLY A FIERCELY PRO ISRAEL JEW. I will ALWAYS stand up for my people, and I won’t be deterred, intimidated, or shamed out of rocking the asses of the masses. Put that in your pipes and smoke it.”

Draiman’s Past Pro-Israel Statements

Draiman’s support for Israel has been clear and direct for years. Among his notable actions:

• Singing the Israeli national anthem during a Disturbed concert in Tel Aviv.
• Publicly calling Roger Waters “a monster” and “anti-Semitic to his rotten core.”
• Declaring in 2022 that he doesn’t care if his pro-Israel stance alienates people.

Tom Morello Supports Kneecap’s Political Message

Tom Morello has praised Kneecap for their fearless political statements, comparing their voice to the band he played in — Rage Against The Machine. He admires their use of music as a platform to speak out against injustice, particularly in relation to the Palestinian conflict.

Kneecap’s Controversies and Legal Troubles

Kneecap has been at the center of political controversy all year, asserting at major festivals such as Coachella and Glastonbury that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Their politically charged performances have sparked police investigations.

One incident involved member Mo Chara allegedly shouting “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah” and displaying a Hezbollah flag on stage. Mo Chara was later granted unconditional bail after appearing in court.

Despite allegations, Kneecap has consistently denied supporting Hamas or Hezbollah, emphasizing that they do not encourage violence. They dismiss the legal action against them as “a carnival of distraction.” Recently, they defended their satirical live performances, insisting that it’s not their responsibility to clarify what is a joke and what isn’t.

The Broader Conflict Context

The United Nations has stated that Israel’s military tactics in Gaza align with genocide, while the Gaza Health Ministry reports over 56,000 Palestinian deaths amid the conflict. Israel denies these accusations and insists it has not committed war crimes.

This highly charged political backdrop fuels the intense emotions surrounding artists like Kneecap, their music, and public figures who either support or criticize them.

Conclusion: Where Do We Draw the Line Between Art, Politics, and Responsibility?

The clash between David Draiman and Tom Morello over support for Kneecap highlights how deeply intertwined music and politics have become. When does artistic expression cross into endorsing violence? And how should artists navigate these turbulent waters without alienating fans or inciting hatred?

FAQs

• How did David Draiman respond to Tom Morello’s support of Kneecap?
  Draiman called Morello “shameful” and criticized him for supporting a group he associates with terror and inciting hatred toward Jewish people.
• What is Kneecap’s political stance?
  Kneecap is openly pro-Palestinian, accusing Israel of committing genocide and using their music to protest against perceived injustices.
• Has Kneecap faced legal issues due to their performances?
  Yes, notably Mo Chara faced court for allegedly supporting terrorist groups, but the band denies endorsing violence.
• What was the reaction to David Draiman’s appearance at the Black Sabbath farewell show?
  He was booed by some attendees, but Draiman defended his presence, emphasizing his respect for the band and his unapologetic pro-Israel stance.
• How has Tom Morello described Kneecap?
  Morello called Kneecap “the Rage Against The Machine of now” and praised their bravery in speaking truth to power.

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