Plush‘s new single featuring Disturbed vocalist David Draiman, “Why“, went up online today, June 20th. The track has been a controversial offering for the NY-based hard rockers due to Draiman‘s involvement and more. Earlier this month, the band’s guitarist Bella Perron quit the outfit, citing alleged use of AI for the single’s cover art. Plush themselves disputed her claims in a statement, arguing otherwise.
Draiman‘s involvement however opened up another can of worms. The multi-platinum musician’s outspoken pro-Israel stance amid the ongoing war in Gaza that has since spread to other regions, and his past signing of an artillery shell for the Israel Defense Forces were cited by those decrying Plush for involving themselves with him.
Last July while spending time with the IDF, Draiman signed at least one artillery shell with the phrase ‘F*ck Hamas’. The move was seen as a divisive gesture given the reported high casualty rate of civilians and non-combatants from Israeli airstikes in the ongoing conflict. Plush themselves pushed back against the allegations that Draiman‘s politics had played a part in the song, offering the following just over a week ago:
“The anger, divisiveness, and speculation within the past 24 hours over the announcement of our new single, is the reason behind why the song was written. ‘Why‘ is about the importance of unity in the face of oppression and hatred.
This song —that hasn’t even been released yet— is not political. It is not about war, religion, or erasing anybody’s perspective or opinions. Plush welcomes all different types of beliefs and perspectives in our band and in our fan base. We will continue to use our platform to stand AGAINST hate towards any race, sexuality, gender, or religion.
Our song was made to question the darkest sides of humanity, and encourage you to educate yourself on the atrocities being committed around the world. Speak out for what you believe in. Stand up for those who don’t have a voice and stand for change. The future is in our hands.”
Speaking alongside the single’s release today, vocalist/guitarist Moriah Formica shared:
“We live in challenging times. That reality has often left me feeling deeply empty and hopeless. ‘Why‘ is a song that conveys that sentiment.”
As for working with Draiman and producer Johnny K on the song, Formica added:
“Writing this with David Draiman was an amazing experience. It was also special to be able to co-produce with Johnny K, who was instrumental in helping to launch Disturbed and Plush, so there was a familiar energy throughout the process.”
