Down with the Sickness – Disturbed
Release date: 2000-03-07
Unleashing the Beast: A Deep Dive into Disturbed’s “Down with the Sickness”
Introduction
When Disturbed released “Down with the Sickness” on March 7, 2000, as part of their debut album The Sickness, they threw open the doors to a new era of post-grunge and alternative metal. The track quickly became one of the most iconic modern rock anthems of the early 2000s and cemented Disturbed’s place in the heavy music pantheon.
The Album: The Sickness
The Sickness was not just a debut — it was a statement. Released through Giant and Reprise Records, this album introduced fans to a powerful blend of aggressive riffs, electronic textures, and frontman David Draiman’s unmistakable vocal stylings. “Down with the Sickness” stood out as both a sonic and emotional centerpiece, capturing everything that made Disturbed unique at the turn of the millennium.
Musical Style and Composition
Rooted in alternative metal with strong post-grunge influences, “Down with the Sickness” thrives on its raw energy and primal intensity. The song kicks off with Dan Donegan’s chugging downtuned guitar riff before giving way to Draiman’s now-legendary guttural “Ooh-wah-ah-ah-ah!”, an infamous vocal expression that instantly grabs attention. The rhythm section — anchored by Mike Wengren’s pounding drums and Steve Kmak’s tight basslines — delivers a relentless pulsing groove that underpins the entire track.
This fusion of nu-metal aggression with melodic undertones makes “Down with the Sickness” highly accessible for fans of both traditional heavy metal and modern rock genres alike.
Lyric Themes and Song Meaning
While its visceral sound commands immediate attention, it’s the lyrical content that often provokes deeper reflection. “Down with the Sickness” explores themes of abuse, trauma, emotional repression, and societal dysfunction. The controversial spoken-word bridge — where Draiman confronts his mother figure in fictionalized rage — has sparked considerable debate over its meaning but undeniably adds raw emotional depth.
Draiman has clarified in interviews that while the song delves into personal darkness, it’s designed more as a metaphor for breaking free from toxic influences and embracing one’s inner power after years of pain. It’s not meant to glorify violence but rather expose emotional scars that many listeners may relate to or find cathartic.
Why It Resonates With Fans
“Down with the Sickness” strikes a powerful chord because it combines unfiltered emotion with unforgettable hooks. The memorable chorus is equal parts rallying cry and psychological purge. For fans navigating personal struggles or simply seeking music that hits hard both emotionally and sonically, this track serves as both release and rebellion.
Its continued popularity — spanning radio play, film soundtracks (like Dawn of the Dead), meme culture, and cover versions — proves its enduring impact within rock and metal communities.
Conclusion
More than two decades since its release, “Down with the Sickness” remains one of Disturbed’s most recognizable songs — a dark yet empowering anthem that resonates across generations. Whether you’re drawn to its aggressive riffs, cathartic lyrics, or sheer ferocity, there’s no denying that this track helped define a pivotal moment in modern metal history.
