16 Years Ago: Disturbed Singer Gives Candid Interview Before Rocking Portland, Maine

On April 18, 2009, the Cumberland County Civic Center (now Cross Insutance Arena) in Portland, Maine, shook to its foundation as Disturbed brought their "Music as a Weapon IV" tour to town. Alongside Killswitch Engage, Lacuna Coil, and Chimaira. If you forgot your earplugs that night, they might still be ringing. 

All the bands gave the fans what they came for that night, including the spot on performance that fans came to know and expect from Disturbed. But beyond the heavy riffs, pits and headbanging, the night was marked by an unforgettable interview on WCYY that gave fans an unfiltered look into the life and mind of frontman David Draiman.

I had interviewed David a few times prior – he was always cool, but this day was different. He really opened up in a way that fans rarely had seen. He spoke candidly about the band's decade-long journey, the challenges they faced, his breakup with his fiance and the sad the loss of his dog, Lisa. 

Not that he needed the proof, but at the end of the interview, I showed him just how much Portland loved Disturbed when I revealed that they won the first ever CYY Madness tournament of 64 bands.

The Portland show itself was a spectacle, with a setlist spanning their biggest hits along with tunes off of the new album at the time "Indestructible”. The band’s signature energy, combined with an expanded festival experience featuring tattoo artists, gaming zones, and extreme sports demos, made Music as a Weapon more than just a concert—it was a full-blown indoor rock carnival.

Looking back, that night in Portland was a defining moment for both Disturbed and their Maine fanbase. Sixteen years later, it remains a legendary performance, and Draiman’s heartfelt interview on WCYY is still remembered as a rare and genuine insight into one of rock’s iconic voices.

Obviously we took care of the fans that night as well by getting content winners backstage to meet the band and then hangout on stage for the band's performance.

The band is currently spending the year out on the road celebrating the 25th anniversary of their debut album "The Sickness". That said... it has been 9 years since they've played here. Come on, guys - we KNOW you haven't forgotten Portland, Maine.