Disturbed Hit Back At Criticism Over 'X Factor' Gig Tonight - 'We're Representing Rock In A Pop World'

US metal outfit Disturbed have responded to a wave of criticism they've received in recent hours after the band posted a video on their Facebook page promoting a live spot on Aussie singing competition The X Factor tonight. 

The video, filmed in Sydney, shows frontman David Draiman chatting with guitarist Dan Donegan about the upcoming gig, where they are set to perform their cover of Simon & Garfunkel's classic, The Sound Of Silence.

read more: fans react to 'x factor' performance

"This is live TV, you can’t fuck up," Draiman says. 

"A lot more pressure," the singer continues. 

"Gotta carry the torch tonight. Represent for rock a little bit in a pop world."

The video was met with a number of tough comments from punters who slammed the band as sell-outs for appearing on the Channel Seven reality show, prompting the band to respond in an online post. 

"We're fighting the good fight for our genre to be respectably represented," the post reads.

"All artists/musicians want to spread their work to as many people as possible. That's what it's all about. Sharing the beauty of what you created. 

"If that is considered 'selling out' to some people, then so be it."

See the full video and follow-up statement below. 

The X Factor airs tonight from 7.30pm.

Disturbed have just hit Australia for a headline tour — head to theGuide for more details on dates and tickets.