Disturbed’s “Divisive” Lyrics Meaning

According to David Draiman’s explanation, “Divisive” speaks to two basic concepts – partisanism and relatedly, anger becoming trendy of late. 

When you combine those realities, what we get is a modern world in which there perpetually seems to be some type of factious debate at hand and where certain parties always want to take it to the next level in terms of propagating disharmony as a result. 

Maybe, some of us would argue that the world has always been like this in a way. But it is true that in places like the United States for instance, in recent times there always seems to be some major issue that has extremists on both sides wildin’ out. In some instances, this may even result in the noteworthy fracturing of families and friendships.

It is such a zealous individual as noted above who serves as the addressee in this song. He is someone whom the vocalist is having major difficulties relating to since this person keeps ‘bitching’ and “judging” him. 

Moreover, said individual has apparently closed his or her ear to any opposing point of view except concerning the matter at hand. 

The lyrics do not indicate that matter is, nor is that necessarily important in terms of what’s being put forth. And that’s because the vocalist has come to realize that it isn’t really about the issue per se but rather the addressee being fearful, hateful and moreover, let’s say the naturally disagreeable type. 

So when this person tries to ‘bait’ David into a conflict for instance, he’s wise enough to know not to get caught up in the game.

Release of “Divisive”

“Divisive” is the title track of Disturbed’s eighth studio album. It was released as the album’s second single on 28 October 2022. And this has been possible via the support of Reprise Records. Reprise has been responsible for all of Disturbed’s albums thus far with the exception of their debut outing, 2000’s “The Sickness”.

Credits

“Divisive” was written by Disturbed. WZRD BLD handled the track’s production.

Disturbed

Disturbed is a quartet, consisting of frontman David Draiman who is backed by the following instrumentalists:

• Dan Donegan
• John Moyer
• Mike Wengren

The band’s lineup has looked this way since 2004. And they have been very successful particularly from a critical perspective. Five of their seven studio albums thus far have topped the Billboard 200. 

Moreover the lead single from “Divisive”, “Hey You“, reached the summit of the US Mainstream Rock chart.