Layne Staley

Birth name	Layne Rutherford Staley
Also known as
Born	(1967-08-22)August 22, 1967 Kirkland, Washington, U.S.
Origin
Died	April 5, 2002(2002-04-05) (aged 34) Seattle, Washington, U.S.
Genres
Occupation(s)	Musician, singer-songwriter
Instrument(s)

Layne Rutherford Staley (August 22, 1967 – April 5, 2002) was an American musician and singer-songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist and co-lyricist of the rock band Alice in Chains. Staley was known for his distinct vocal style and tenor voice, as well as his harmonizing with guitarist/vocalist Jerry Cantrell.

Early Life

Layne Staley was born in Kirkland, Washington, and grew up in a musical family. He began playing drums at the age of 12 and later switched to singing. Staley was influenced by bands such as Black Sabbath, The Doors, and Van Halen.

Career

Alice in Chains

In 1987, Staley joined the band that would become Alice in Chains. The band was formed by guitarist Jerry Cantrell, bassist Mike Starr, and drummer Sean Kinney. Alice in Chains rose to international fame as part of the Seattle grunge movement of the early 1990s, alongside bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden.

Alice in Chains' debut album, Facelift, was released in 1990 and included the hit single "Man in the Box", which received heavy airplay on radio and MTV. The band's second album, Dirt, released in 1992, was a critical and commercial success, featuring singles such as "Would?", "Rooster", and "Them Bones".

Mad Season

In 1994, Staley formed the supergroup Mad Season with guitarist Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, bassist John Baker Saunders, and drummer Barrett Martin of Screaming Trees. The band released one album, Above, in 1995, which included the hit single "River of Deceit".

Personal Life and Struggles

Staley struggled with severe drug addiction for much of his career, which affected his health and his ability to perform. His addiction led to the cancellation of several tours and recording sessions. Despite his struggles, Staley continued to work with Alice in Chains, releasing the Alice in Chains album in 1995 and the MTV Unplugged live album in 1996.

Death

Layne Staley died on April 5, 2002, from a drug overdose. His body was found in his Seattle apartment two weeks later. His death marked the end of an era for Alice in Chains, although the band later reformed with new lead vocalist William DuVall.

Legacy

Staley's voice and music continue to influence many artists and bands. He is remembered for his powerful vocal delivery and his contributions to the grunge movement. Alice in Chains' music remains popular, and Staley's work is celebrated by fans and musicians alike.

Also see

• Alice in Chains
• Jerry Cantrell
• Mad Season (band)
• Grunge music
• Seattle music scene