Disturbed vocalist David Draiman received a somewhat chilly reception (see footage below) during his time at today’s (July 05th) ‘Back To The Beginning‘ farewell show for Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne. Draiman hit the stage for covers of Osbourne‘s “Shot In The Dark” and Sabbath‘s “Sweet Leaf” via his participation in the supergroup covers sets overseen by Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello. However, as reported by Birmingham Live, Draiman was met with some boos and middle fingers upon taking to the stage.
Draiman performed with Ozzy Osbourne veterans Jake E. Lee, Mike Bordin and Adam Wakeman during the set, with Anthrax‘s Scott Ian, Extreme‘s Nuno Bettencourt and ex-Megadeth bassist David Ellefson also among the backing musicians.
Draiman has become a polarizing figure for his frequent public support for Israel in the ongoing war in Gaza that began in 2023. Perhaps most controversially, Draiman spent time with the Israel Defense Forces in 2024, where he signed an artillery shell with an expletive-laden phrase aimed at Hamas. Draiman‘s actions and support have drawn criticism, with his detractors frequently citing the tens of thousands of reported civilian casualties in that highly divisive conflict.
Since signing that shell, Draiman himself would would later state that he is, “pro peace and coexistence between ALL PEOPLE.” However, as evidenced by the pushback over his involvement on Plush‘s recent single “Why” last month, the public opinion surrounding Draiman remains divisive.
Draiman wasn’t the only musician involved in today’s big sendoff to create some controversy. A pre-recorded message from Marilyn Manson was aired during the event, which found the shock rocker paying tribute to Ozzy and company. The outcry over Manson‘s involvement spilled over online.
Manson‘s ongoing musical comeback following his career being derailed by over a dozen allegations of sexual assault/misconduct have seen his planned UK shows this fall the subject of protests led by local citizens and politicians in the UK. Late last month, the opening date of his planned October tour was canceled in light of the public backlash.
Update: July 07th, 2025 09:24am:
Draiman has since commented on the reception he received at the event and has disputed the validity of some footage circulating regarding the booing he was met with, claiming that audio of it has been altered. You can read his statement at this location. He did not appear to clarify if the below footage had been doctored or not.
@ameelsadventuring David Draiman getting booed at Black Sabbath was so heart warming, had the least applause too x #backtothebeginning ##blacksabbath #ozzy #disturbed ♬ original sound – Ameel Lock
