Disturbed - Down with the Sickness - Guitar Lesson

Practice Studio

Disturbed - Down with the Sickness - Guitar Lesson

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Key E minor
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Amp Settings

Classic Rock

Gain6
Bass6
Mid7
Treble6
Presence5
Master7
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Roll back the gain slightly and pick near the neck for a warmer, more open crunch.

Disturbed Nu Metal E minor
Capo Advisor 0 E minor · Original key

Down with the Sickness


"Down with the Sickness" is a heavy metal song by Disturbed, released as the second single from their debut album, The Sickness, recorded in 1999. It became one of the band's most recognized tracks and a consistent concert closer. For electric guitarists, the song is a strong introduction to heavy metal rhythm playing, featuring aggressive down-tuned riffing, palm muting, and the driving, syncopated groove that defines Disturbed's early sound.

  • The song is certified 8× Platinum by the RIAA, reflecting its massive and lasting commercial reach.
  • It was Disturbed's first single to achieve platinum certification in the United States.
  • The track is a concert staple for Disturbed, typically performed as the final song of their live sets.
Dunlop Cry Baby Wah
Pedal

Dunlop Cry Baby Wah

Dan Donegan uses the Cry Baby Wah sparingly on select solos to add vocal-like expression without cluttering his minimal effects approach. The pedal's resonant sweep cuts through Disturbed's heavy mix while maintaining the upper-midrange clarity that defines his rhythm tone.

Play with Backing Track

Play with Backing Track

Solo (Backing Track)

Solo (Backing Track)