In “Don’t Tell Me,” Disturbed and Ann Wilson offer a breathtaking performance.

“Don’t Tell Me,” a standout track from Disturbed’s 2022 album Divisive, features a compelling collaboration with Ann Wilson of Heart. The partnership emerged following the mutual admiration between Disturbed’s lead singer David Draiman and Wilson. Draiman, who had previously been moved by Wilson’s praise for their cover of “The Sound of Silence,” saw an opportunity to deepen their musical connection by inviting her to duet on a song of personal significance. The result is an emotionally charged ballad that merges Draiman’s intense, powerful vocals with Wilson’s legendary, soulful voice.

David Draiman’s respect for Ann Wilson is profound; he regards her as the greatest female rock vocalist of all time. For her part, Wilson expressed her excitement about the project, particularly because she and her husband had been fans of Disturbed’s interpretation of “The Sound of Silence.” This shared admiration set the stage for a collaboration that was both artistically satisfying and deeply personal for both parties.

“Don’t Tell Me” is notable for being Disturbed’s first track featuring a guest artist. The song stands out as a testament to the band’s willingness to explore new musical territory. The track’s arrangement is characterized by its moody instrumentation, which provides a backdrop for the powerful vocal harmonies between Draiman and Wilson. Their combined performance adds layers of emotional depth and intensity to the song, demonstrating their ability to complement each other’s distinctive vocal styles.

The music video for “Don’t Tell Me,” directed by Matt Mahurin, visually enhances the song’s emotional impact. The video features poignant imagery, including silhouettes and reflective scenes that align with the song’s themes of introspection and emotional struggle. The visual narrative amplifies the song’s lyrical content, making it a memorable complement to the music.

The recording of “Don’t Tell Me” took place in California to accommodate Wilson’s schedule, highlighting the logistical considerations involved in such a high-profile collaboration. The studio sessions showcased the natural chemistry between Draiman and Wilson, underscoring their ability to create a harmonious and powerful musical experience.

The lyrics of “Don’t Tell Me” were inspired by guitarist Dan Donegan’s personal experiences, specifically his divorce at the time. Donegan’s emotional state during the songwriting process added an additional layer of authenticity and personal significance to the track. His appreciation for Wilson’s contribution reflects the seamless integration of her voice with Draiman’s, enhancing the overall impact of the song.

Divisive, the album featuring “Don’t Tell Me,” debuted at number 13 on the Billboard 200, with the album selling 26,000 equivalent album units in its first week. This commercial success underscores Disturbed’s continued relevance and their ability to innovate while remaining true to their musical roots. Ann Wilson’s involvement in the project marked a significant milestone in the band’s career, celebrating the intersection of classic rock and modern metal.

The collaboration on “Don’t Tell Me” exemplifies the power of bringing together artists from different generations and genres to create something uniquely compelling. The song not only highlights the exceptional vocal talents of Draiman and Wilson but also underscores their mutual respect and the creative synergy that emerges from such partnerships. This track resonates with fans of both artists, reinforcing the timeless appeal of rock music and the enduring impact of talented musicians working together.