Disturbed’s David Draiman Chimes In On Online Discussion Surrounding Beartooth’s Caleb Shomo & New Song “Free”

Disturbed frontman David Draiman has publicly voiced support for Beartooth vocalist Caleb Shomo following online backlash surrounding the band’s recently released single “Free.”

The discussion erupted after the debut of the song’s music video, which showcased a dramatic visual shift for Shomo and sparked widespread discourse across social media. While many fans praised the artistic direction, others responded with criticism and harassment, some of which reportedly extended to Shomo’s family online. The situation escalated further when Shomo deleted his social media accounts, prompting additional commentary from figures within the heavy music scene — including controversial remarks from Attila vocalist Chris Fronzak, who later issued an apology.

Amid the ongoing conversation, Draiman shared a message of encouragement via X (formerly Twitter), placing Shomo’s artistic expression within the broader legacy of iconic rock performers:

“Some of the greatest frontmen of all time have never held anything back, fully embracing their own aspects of flamboyance and expressing themselves as powerfully as they knew how.

Bowie, Mercury, and so many others, took rock to a level only few dared to go, and did it with power, class, and grace.

I have watched #CalebShlomo, the singer of @BEARTOOTHband, become one of the most formidable young frontmen in rock.

The song is great, the video is great, and the band is firing on all cylinders.

Bowie, Mercury and so many others, including yours truly, are PROUD OF YOU. 🤘🏻”

The support arrives shortly after Beartooth unveiled “Free,” their first release since signing with Fearless Records. The track was co-produced by Shomo alongside former Bring Me The Horizon member Jordan Fish and serves as an early preview of the band’s next studio album.

Speaking previously about the song, Shomo described it as a deeply personal creative turning point:

“‘Free’ is the start of the next chapter of my music and my life. The emotional roller coaster that is living can be very complicated at times. In one day you can equally experience pure fear and pure joy. This song shows a glimpse of what is to come from the next Beartooth album, which is the most honest depiction of my soul I will most likely ever make.”

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