David Draiman and Roger Waters Feud Erupts After Podcast Appearance on 'The Magnificent Others'

**David Draiman**, the frontman of **Disturbed**, recently appeared as a guest on **Billy Corgan**'s podcast, *The Magnificent Others*, which previously featured **Courtney Love**. Draiman has long been outspoken about his views on politics and music, notably his staunch support for Israel.

Corgan introduced Draiman by acknowledging this context: "Normally on my show we talk about music and art, but in the last couple years you waded very deeply into the political sphere. It's not to say it's going to be about politics or it's going to be about music, let's call it the intercession of both and the responsibility of an artist to stand behind what they believe in — that type of thing."

The ensuing conversation delved into complex topics such as politics, public perception, world history, the moral obligations of artists, freedom of speech, and the contrast between facts and narratives. It was undeniably intense.

While interpretations of Draiman's views may vary, the discussion raised interesting points about the challenges of always saying the right thing and the existential dilemmas faced by artists. Corgan consistently steered the conversation back to political activism in art, questioning whether musicians should engage in political discourse. Draiman responded, "I think musicians should speak to their hearts no matter what it may be."

Corgan later pressed Draiman on maintaining consistency between his art and political stances. Draiman emphasized the importance of consistency and dialogue: "Be consistent. If you care about human rights then care about human rights... You have to be able to engage in dialogue. You can't immediately shut people down. You can't just stick to your team and reverberate in your echo chamber and hope to affect change or comradery."

Corgan acknowledged the potential controversy of hosting Draiman but framed it as a valuable dialogue between musicians, rather than a one-sided speech.

Around the 1h20m mark, Corgan brought up Roger Waters of Pink Floyd, another musician known for his outspoken political views, including his support for Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela, criticism of Ukraine, and opposition to Israel. Corgan, who has worked with Waters, attempted to bridge the gap between Draiman and Waters, despite their opposing views. The effort backfired.

Waters' father, Lieutenant Eric Fletcher Waters, died in WWII, a significant influence on his music. Corgan noted this, saying, "It makes sense to me that a man who grew up in the shadow of WWII, lost his daddy in a war, has really suffered the consequence of the pain of losing someone—" before Draiman interjected.

Draiman questioned Waters' selective sensitivity, asking, "Well then why isn't he hypersensitive to what's going on in Iran? Why did he defend the Iranian regime?" Corgan admitted his attempt at peacemaking had failed.

Draiman continued, "I grew up on Pink Floyd. I loved Pink Floyd. It was such a massive betrayal, not just to me, but Jews everywhere, when he went in the direction that he did... Roger has a penchant for dictators, for the worst motherfuckers on planet Earth. Roger just cozies right up to them. He has no problem whatsoever."

When Corgan asked if Draiman would be open to a conversation with Waters, Draiman responded, "I'd have to punch him first... I'd be willing to sit down and have a conversation with just about anybody except someone that can no longer be reached. And I am very, very convinced that Roger Waters can no longer be reached."

An open letter to @Billy:

Dear Billy Corgan
How are you? It’s been too long. @davidmdraiman Someone forwarded me this chap’s appearance on your podcast. I’d never heard of him. Anyway, it turns out he has heard of me. It seems he has a problem with me standing up for human… pic.twitter.com/gZyN1TmM3Y

— Roger Waters ✊ (@rogerwaters) April 16, 2026