Alice In Chains - No Excuses (From MTV Unplugged)

[@MrPeteybelljr]

Not enough people talk about how good Sean Kinney is as a drummer, love his style.

[@drowsynectar6173]

His drumming is a part of AIC that makes their sound unique.

[@mattiasbrooks3255]

He’s rlly underrated… so is AIC. Everyone talks about nirvana being the best band but that’s only cuz they got more mainstream coverage. In my opinion AIC’s unplugged was a little better than nirvanas. But both bands are equally amazing. I wish ppl looked at AIC the way they looked at Nirvana

[@joshhawkins8394]

@Justin Ward-Angelucci not true, foo fighters are way worse

[@joshhawkins8394]

@Justin Ward-Angelucci not trash but imo kurt is a better frontman than dave i just lrefer his songwriting and angst

[@buddyrowe2984]

they ALWAYS talk about how good he is on this song. It's easy to notice on this one. What he did for Alice in Chains as a musician, can never be overstated. One of the best, period.

[@louis_leonardi]

Layne died 22 years ago today, one of the best voices in grunge. Although I admire him he is my inspiration not to take drugs

[@RexytheRexy]

I remember the day the news of his death broke like it was yesterday; my high school friends and I sitting in a bedroom in mute shock, listening to their music. I miss him to this day. Every time I reach a sobriety landmark, I think of dear Layne.

[@anthonydavella8350]

@@socioscorpio9791 Get some help man

[@raqueledwards6061]

Yeah it's still breaks my heart ❤️💔 a true vocal God devastating loss same here and my father most of all in certain other people!!!

[@raqueledwards6061]

​@@socioscorpio9791wow 😲😪😭

[@raqueledwards6061]

​@@RexytheRexyyeah I remember I was in my sophomore year of high school and I actually heard it from one of the girls at school and I went home and I cried so hard because I know what we lost it was such a sad ending to a true legend something that didn't have to happen😢 but I pray his soul is at peace 🕊️😪💔 we will always have moments like this he will truly live on through the music 🎵🎶!!!

[@hereiamfornow]

People take Jerry's singing ability WAY too much for granted. The ability to harmonize like that is a serious gift and he has a great voice in any case.

[@jennbennett4889]

I am a heroin addict and I feel his pain

[@willowbrooke1215]

@@jennbennett4889 Omg you know! I am not an addict, I am 57 yet I feel pain for Layne even today when I watch their videos. I never got over him dying. Weird cos Kurt never affected me this way 'tho I love Nirvana. All the best, get better and stay safe! Love from a New Zealander.

[@pogues2300]

they only do because of how good layne is, but i get your point

[@michaeldobbs4249]

They harmonise perfect and without ear buds like everyone uses now real musicians….

[@badmankc713]

Agreed bud, I’ve always said this, Jerry said in an interview that Layne always encouraged him to sing, especially since the majority were his songs!

[@CheesyCola1]

"You my friend, I will defend, and if we change, man I love you anyway." That has to be one of the most powerful final verses ever

[@rosellagavin293]

In fact Layne died alone and forgotten...

[@TheStepmonkey]

@@rosellagavin293 He was never forgotten, that's why we are all watching his performances till this day.

[@realjohndead]

@@rosellagavin293 he may have died alone but he won’t ever be forgotten

[@nadia562010]

Layne protected everyone from his addiction. One of the most selfless things I've ever heard of. If you've ever been a victim of addiction of or just a person witnessing someone going through addiction...it's easy to get all your loved ones wrapped up in it as well. Layne pushed everyone away to protect everyone from his downward spiral. Yes Layne had such a beautiful voice...you almost felt like you knew him personally but that man battled with some serious demons his whole life. Let him rest in peace please

[@mateostefanko]

@@nadia562010 this totally relates with the verse, well said

[@sanzen1234]

Usually when singers harmonize one guy holds back, but these two are both singing lead, they just happen to also be harmonizing eachother. Its incredibly to see them so on

[@osmarprado9285]

kkkkkk

[@storm2000808]

Layne and Jerry were meant to sing together. Never been a more harmonic duo.

[@jjgalletta66]

Agreed. Most bands have to layer lead vocals in studio to get that same vocal depth that Jerry and Layne generate live. Not since The Yardbirds, Led Zeppelin or The Beatles has there been so much talent in the same band.

[@MarkoJaric107]

@@jjgalletta66 hey now, don’t forget about blink 182

[@jessietaylor790]

And Duvall will never compare in the slightest

[@andrewearly4626]

RIP Layne. The best version of my favorite song by AIC

[@nathan32121]

F Ken A

[@misslornamae]

This song is written by Jerry to Layne. I think it's quite a sympathetic song that talks about Layne's depression and how real and isolated he felt. But the line " and if we change, I 'll love you anyway" gives me tears. Saying despite Layne's mental health issues and drug use, that he loves him. As a huge fan of Stone Temple Pilots I feel sad that the band members weren't as supportive of Scott, like AIC was for Layne. It must have been hard for the members of AIC to deal with Layne, but rather than bad mouthing him like STP did to Scott, they accepted he had a problem and loved him anyway.

[@shawnwolf9080]

I heard he was in rehab like 10 time as well have you heard that?

[@NihilisticHatred]

@@shawnwolf9080 13

[@blainjohnson1978]

Did you read that Jerry and the band had a fight about this show, Jerry was the only one who said Layne could pull it off which is why he smirks at the band during Down in a hole when Layne killed that high note.

[@shawnwolf9080]

@@blainjohnson1978 yes and if you notice he smiles at them again the band mates when he is all over "rooster ".

[@Pingaheimer]

@@blainjohnson1978 Damn, really? Can u link me that plz? This brought a tear to my eye.... i feel so bad for Layne, he really seemed like such a nice guy. Massive talent. ONe of the best voice ever

[@SeedyL]

This show has the best bass tone I've ever heard in a show

[@LucasVelrfe]

Exactly

[@albumswithandy3561]

If I remember correctly, Mike Inez was actually using an acoustic bass guitar vs what most unplugged shows did was just use the regular one. He was the only one in the history of the show to do so. I read that awhile back.

[@notsocrates9529]

This is one of the few times I prefer the live version of a song over the cleaner studio cuts.

[@aldeayeah]

The bass and drums are on point, this grooves much more than the studio version

[@maureenwoodard9588]

I agree! the bass is truly phenomenal

[@evil_laughter.]

“layne has the most beautiful way of saying something horrible that i’ve ever heard” -jerry cantrell

[@kimberlyohare8460]

Some voices were destined to be together: Simon and Garfunkel, Nicks and Buckingham, and none more than Staley and Cantrell.

[@katej2284]

completely agree, they harmonise perfectly

[@loiteringrambler2928]

and James and Jason while it lasted

[@maurosgv]

Don't forget Kiedis and Frusciante!

[@claytonmcmullen]

don't forget Lennon McCartney, a duo that definitely rivals Staley Cantrell.

[@CP-kb1du]

@@maurosgv Anthony is not a Singer or Vocalist ....he is a stage man

[@johnbest4680]

Unplugged shows the real artists and this band had em all.

[@spicoli4217]

I remember seeing this when I was 5 in 1996. Thats how much of an impact it made

[@cleverchaleigh]

I was 12! I saw this in my living room sitting on the coffee table...cause I loved blondes and I originally a Nirvana fan but I loved AIC too & I was mad that we moved away from Seattle during the grunge era!

[@sergiootaegui]

jerry cantrell without a doubt one of the greatest harmony vocalists of all time. he misses nothing here

[@matthewgreen9704]

Aaaaaaaaaawwwwwwqbbgjbrkjyg. Vb. CG. Fun. Go b b. Bgbhg vbj nh be gh hg the fhg Hj Hong jy hygiene Hj Hanford Hj he hjf Hj hg nhf jhf. Jhf fun ghfhtjy jut ljhr hyr gh

[@Puvwilmo00]

Jerry's voice compliments Layne's so well, they both hit their notes together very well and it sounds so good.

[@M.Boatwright]

Jerrys a Hell of a song writer too

[@ropete33]

The trademark of this band and what made them unique. Their sound is unmistakable.

[@simonlopez83]

He and his drummer deserve all the credit in this wonderful song

[@philipwykes8713]

Alice in Chains are a rare example of harmony and cohesion between the talent of all 4 members of the band. Jerry and Layne's vocals are perfectly supported by the guitar and bass melodies, which in turn are lead harmoniously by Sean's drum line. These 4 guys had more musical coherence than the Berlin Philarmonic orchestra!

[@TheStepmonkey]

Exactly, each one of the members was a master of their art.

[@jeremyperron5394]

Fucking best reply I’ve ever heard of eh !!?

[@saratoole9907]

Absolutely. I was a music major. I can't believe how overlooked they are for their technical brilliance.

[@LaurenOliviArt]

Agreed

[@mawoodtt]

As stoned as they were how did they nail this. It’s amazing.

[@kaiyugunther1177]

My brother died today and this is the song that we always play together, he's on drums and I'm on guitar and vocals. Love and miss you already bro! See you there when my time comes. God bless❤

[@missolesoul]

I'm so sorry for your tremendous loss. I can't say anything to make it better, just hold on to those precious memories of music making together. Those can never be stolen or replaced. Best wishes!!

[@StefanMedici]

I hope this song still puts a smile on your face, even if it comes with tears.

[@Seannone-ya-vc7pl]

So sorry for your loss. All we can do is honor the one's we've lost and do our best.. i pray that comes easy as possible for you..

[@ann-gr6qr]

Sorry to hear about your brother. God bless you both.

[@chrishughes6518]

Hope you're well brother

[@melissawright1979]

You know what? I am a MASSIVE Nirvana fan and I used to think their Unplugged was the best. But AIC absolutely blows everyone else out of the water!! Absolutely flawless! Mesmerising 😍

[@bloodhoundgang1642]

Same here..

[@andrewdyke5561]

Alice in chains will always be better. Better harmony, better song writting. Better singer. I still like nirvana alot, but alice in chains was and will always be leagues ahead of nirvana

[@frankgile1996]

@@andrewdyke5561 As much as I want to agree with your comment (and for as much as Alice In Chains were leagues ahead in technical capabilities), it's kinda wrong to compare them. People can like whichever one they feel conveys their own emotions and experiences better. I love both Unplugged performances, and songs from both bands in general, but they convey different emotions through their music. Nothing wrong with listening to both bands, I reckon...

[@noverrr4508]

I'm a huge nirvana fan and I'm glad I found aic thru nirvana

[@MrSaibot420]

Melissa Wright No you aren’t. Because a Real Nirvana Fan wouldn’t say something like what you said.

[@markyates4925]

❤I remember watching this when I was 30,now I'm 29 years later and still watch and live this and the AIC 2:45 band is still with me,RIP Layne and Mike

[@durden2480]

RIP Layne your missed

[@crazymad373]

He lives

[@GHVilla07]

you are*

[@zachschmidt717]

There never was, nor will there ever be, another band like Alice In Chains. They never had a bad song ever IMO

[@MegLeb2010]

I agree. Never heard a song of theirs I didn’t like.

[@Mxulin]

Godsmack was my least favorite but its not a bad song. I just don't fit the way Layne sounds on it

[@Dartheomus]

You can say that about a few of the 90's bands. I don't think you can say that any never had a bad song, but... the 90s music just spoke to me.

[@ambernoone2581]

so true. All of their songs and music is on point.

[@logancombs1430]

And on top of that I’ve never seen them put on a bad live performance, it’s always spot on, such a great band. Criminally underrated imo

[@jeremymay9947]

I think that something that isn't appreciated as much about this entire show is that you rarely if ever see a camera, and yet you feel like you not only in the front row but are walking around the stage. The camera work, production, and editing are nearly flawless. Then you get to the audio quality like they are performing in a recording studio. This right here might be the best thing that MTV ever produced.

[@agirlwhol0ves_music]

“You think it’s funny? Well you’re drowning in it too.” gets me every time. I love that line so much.❤

[@taraerskine3954]

Layne's is the most incredible musician that I know of.. I'm an addict & it's very hard, & I hate the way society views on it. I'm on the clinic, but that's my life now & it's very sad ' & hard to fathom, how fast my life & everything I loved got so bad, & sad that fast. It's true everything falls to pieces & I'm drowning in it to. He couldn't have said it better, than that. RIP Lanes Staley.

[@ehayes21]

I hope you’re able to get out and enjoy your life substance free.

[@gaiarockchick]

Kinneys drumming in this song is absolutely phenomenal. It's like he has 10 hands! Incredible. Such a great song too, beautiful duet, so beautiful. I always cry, and here I go again ....✌

[@chook1678]

I cry too.

[@TheStepmonkey]

IKR, Sean is probably the best drummer of the grunge era

[@nadia562010]

Almost tribal sounding

[@JinxMarie1985]

It hits me too. I love how peaceful it is

[@ismrady]

I hours it took me to break it down... And i only did it partly

[@ColonelCM]

Jesus Christ, that's some exceptional drumming by Sean. I mean generally as well but specifically this song is EXPERTLY drummed.

[@gpfmusico]

3:55 Jerry: "My band is SO good!"

[@barrydduggan]

Sean Kinney is probably the most under rated drummer in Rock.

[@MegLeb2010]

Barry Duggan agreed. His drum work is exceptional.

[@TK-tg8xc]

Barret Martin is right there with him.

[@wolfofrhodeislandx7462]

Not in my book hes not!!🤘

[@colemcnut469]

Fabio on the drums lol

[@TK-tg8xc]

Layne would agree that the Kenny G is the most overrated skin flute player.

[@georgewatanabe3846]

The synergy between Jerry and Layne is just unbelievable...

[@dangosselin88]

Layne died 19 years ago today; he was dying here and not only gave one of the best performances of all time, he still gave a better performance than anybody today. RIP Layne you were one of the greatest singers to ever live, we miss you.

[@chrismitchell7231]

Couldn't of said it better my friend, your absolutely right the best singer ever i miss Layne

[@blackened9694]

The sad thing about hearing Layne pass away was that I was born 2 days after he passed and I learned that later on

[@latouselatrec]

Were all dying bro

[@hypnotoad28]

@@latouselatrec Some faster than others, my friend.

[@aishacampbellsloan5337]

Do q ele morreu?!

[@fiendishshape]

Nearly all Alice in Chains songs have this special feeling to them where they convey depression but hope at the same time

[@dre3k78]

Wonderful drum work.

[@markitzero4777]

Such an underrated drummer. So tasteful

[@Erkbrothers80]

All those splash cymbals, octobans and tom toms give the song such interesting texture underneath such a haunting melody. And it swings like a mofo too.

[@brendanmcg8566]

just tasty

[@thinkforyourself5672]

He killed it. Check out Live's unplugged. I'm not a fan of them but their unplugged was them at their absolute peak. The Drummer absolutely destroys. It's worth watching just for that dude staying perfectly in the pocket and directing the entire band. Check it out if you're Into amazing drumming

[@diegogodar15]

It is really awesome!

[@annaanderson7029]

Jar of flies has some of the most wholesome and relaxing music out of AiC's discography. Love it :)

[@mariemoore4997]

Some people love to deep

[@jasonvegan5761]

Sean was the glue to the entire performance, flawless drumming.

[@nunyabidness116]

The way jerry was smiling when he sang "you my friend, I will defend. And if we change, well, I'll love you anyway". Gave me goosebumps.

[@stickpageoffical]

Why does it look like Jerry isn't in sync with Layne

[@Unoriginalswine]

​@@stickpageoffical because your stupid

[@NOTneomatt]

That lyric is so powerful!

[@jonparker262]

Makes my heart cry, they are brothers.

[@ArielAriel-rg8ng]

Jerry loved so much Layne

[@TheStepmonkey]

AIC is probably the only band where I prefer their live performances over the album version. They're THAT good👌

[@toddsmith3390]

So right step monkey

[@trevorsuzor2096]

Apples and Oranges but The Scorpions are so tight the album and live are spot on..

[@troydunn04]

yes, my thoughts exactly. i usually hate live music replayed. But this was something special.

[@walterbrob]

there is a lot of bands that roll it live, just check around

[@JaredHam-l1e]

Nirvana

[@jayvids4u]

Layne is still the best singer and this is still best unplugged ever.

[@eliascarmon9727]

Lo es. Y que se jodan los que vengan a poner "Chris cornell" o a nombrar a cualquiera

[@wandaburgess9400]

jayvids4u... *THE BEST EVER* so true..

[@berealsupportive2744]

Layne can't be beaten but the current lineup of AIC has some amazing songs. I am very happy they are continuing :) Where you from Jay

[@jayvids4u]

@@berealsupportive2744 i agree they do its good for them to be relevant still and continue to make music. I am from Baltimore MD.

[@berealsupportive2744]

jayvids4u Nice I am from Pennsylvania, bored looking for friends into Aic :)

[@maninblack9850]

Is no one going to comment about this drum performance!!?? Absolutely unreal, creative drumming!

[@kristinagilbert9448]

Drummer is a hero

[@maxmustardman298]

that is what I think of in terms of musical drumming, never could place that term when I first heard it. I first heard it related to Phil Collins, but back then I didn't know that he was also a drummer and not just a pop singer ;)

[@NecroMoz]

@@maxmustardman298 check out some Gavin Harrison, another very musical drummer

[@europa]

Agreed! Great groove The Europa Luna Ghosts Weapons Slave to the King

[@definitelynosebreather]

Any Alice in Chains' member was easily in the top 3 of the 90's of their respective instruments. The band was truly surreal, it's no wonder all of their albums were amazing.

[@uiscepreston]

People forget just how huge Jar of Flies was. It was the first (and for ten years, the only) EP to ever hit #1 on the Billboard charts. Four of the seven songs got constant radio airplay to point of oversaturation.

[@FACEL1FT]

Dude thats their best work No Excuses, Nutshell, I Stay Away, Don’t Follow and Rotten Apple are all killer tracks!

[@ArielAriel-rg8ng]

​@@FACEL1FTagree, it's my favorite work of AIC

[@BarakaTheGreat]

One of the saddest shows, but also their best. Miss ya Layne, miss ya Mike

[@olivermace666]

BarakaTheGreat mike wasn’t in this show...

[@BarakaTheGreat]

Uh, ok? I didn't say he was, lol I was saying I miss him. I know this is Mike Inez, not Mike Starr

[@wandaburgess9400]

BarakaTheGreat *EXACTLY* Did you know that *METALLICA* was sitting in the front row watching this? It was a few years after the 12 yr olds in metallica made fun of Layne.. I imagine it was stressful for Layne, seeing them that close! Layne, rocked this show! *BLEW IT OUT OF THE PARK*

[@donnan.8354]

agreed very sad look at Layne hes gone he dies soon after this show

[@scottcharney1091]

@@donnan.8354 Layne died in 2002.

[@Erix7810]

That drummer is kicking so much ass.

[@nelliesilvers1210]

Sean Kinney's an epic drummer. Damn funny guy too. They all were. I always recommend people watch The Nona Tapes for humour. The Headbangers Ball eps of AIC too.. especially the one in Hugh Hefner's old mansion

[@irishspagetti6565]

He has pretty unique grooves he lays down especially in this song, one of the best drummers ever

[@deutschchad1399]

The drummer and and bass player are exceptional in AIC. Especially in an unplugged session. A drummer doesn’t have a volume knob it’s his restraint that makes it so the drums don’t drown out the unplugged sound.

[@TSE_WOODY]

Both the Mike’s were and are fantastic bass players. RIP Mike Starr

[@coreygolpheneee]

Does have rattan sticks though, that helps, more props need to go to the absoutle Jedi masters that micced and mixed these performances live, and the space they got to play in

[@kiWi-zv8vr]

​@@coreygolpheneeetrue mate, this might be the best sounding unplugged session I've heard just from the mixing

[@TheStepmonkey]

That's cause Sean is a true master, he did a flawless job

[@danielbrown1724]

Anyone else get goosebumps when they see and hear Layne,?!! I don’t know what it is but he has that effect. Especially when he comes walking out during ‘Nutshell’ and the crowd gets louder with cheers, just amazing!! I’ve been hooked on Layne and AIC since ‘93. Jerry and Layne’s harmonizing will always be the staple in their music.

[@nelliesilvers1210]

He's definitely goosebump inducing. I've been in love with Layne-era AIC for a long time and the other half's sick of hearing them. He thinks I'm Layne obsessive 😏. Every 5th of April is my tribute day to Layne and Kurt.

[@TheStepmonkey]

@@nelliesilvers1210 Me too, i guess im way too obsessed with Layne, his voice was just pure magic.

[@danielbrown1724]

@@TheStepmonkey big time. I love and miss this man. This sweet and talented tortured soul

[@stevencopley5487]

October 2023, 67 and just discovered AIC. Ya, I knew the name but not the music or the story. I feel like am now obsessed...I can't get over the great music. While they had their grunge music, songs in this unplugged performance were heavenly. I wish I had known more about them years ago.

[@danielbrown1724]

@@stevencopley5487 that's so awesome you just discovered them. Welcome :) And you're right, they stand out from all the other Seattle bands for their ability to write and perform entire acoustical sets. That's how you know they're real musicians and songwriters as it's a lot easier to write 3 chord songs and add distortion to the guitar (aka Nirvana).

[@Uzzy66]

Sean Kinney on this song. Just wow.

[@theseattlegreen1871]

🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁🎵🎵🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶

[@gregagnello7828]

The Grunge drummers where phenomenal. Dave Abbruzzese, Sean, Matt Cameron, Jimmy Chamberlain, Eric Kretz. They brought drumming back from the hairband dead.

[@ssirslaughter]

greg agnello Dave Grohl

[@arielbizzotto9924]

he is all over the place man!

[@MegLeb2010]

Phenomenal!!!!

[@GRYNGE7]

One of the best drum grooves of the 90s. AIC is so underrated. Layne you were truly one of a kind

[@danielmelo7146]

Masterpiece. Best ever MTV Unplugged album.

[@TheTrutherFiles]

Kurt even said...I EVNY them..

[@matthewgreen9704]

Er

[@matthewgreen9704]

I don’t want to hurt your feelings but it’s not going to work properly 😕😕😕

[@rumblefish9]

"You my friend I will defend and if we change well I love you anyway" - camera pans to Jerry. Rumor is this song was written by Jerry for Layne.

[@johnny891000]

And the rumor is right. Jerry wrote it.

[@rumblefish9]

João Porfírio Yes, Jerry wrote it. Its in the liner notes. Not in dispute. But Jerry has never elaborated on who the song is for.

[@johnny891000]

Maybe to his brother, as he did with 'Brother'.

[@michaelagustinsantos3015]

Rotten Apple Did you name your account from one of their songs? Because if so, you are definitely a fan.

[@kentuckyrex]

Jar of Flies remains one of my absolute favorite CDs in my old collection.

[@HiFiman4u]

MTV never did much better than this.

[@42069TV]

Especially since hiring Francesca Ramsay.

[@ashleymcmeakin8590]

Guess they could do a Justin Bieber unplugged lmao 🤣

[@truthspeaks623]

And they never will

[@neonespeonclash1481]

This and Nirvana’s Unplugged are U N B E A T A B L E

[@JamesG89]

Liam Gallagher did one last year, as he didn't perform with oasis in the 90's. It was filmed in England and it's absolutely brilliant

[@craiggarvey3021]

In my opinion, this is one of, if not... the greatest American rock band ever. Prove me wrong. Such incredible talent, un assuming showmanship and haunting lyrics.

[@robovac3557]

Yawn......

[@barkley8285]

Smashing pumpkins

[@Remynator]

@@barkley8285 I guess you've never seen them live. They $u¢k big time

[@Remynator]

@@robovac3557 Good idea, go back to sleep you simple human

[@Dub96]

@@robovac3557this was a moronic reply lol

[@annepatton8727]

I always come back to this. No need to ask the year we are in. AIC pulled out the best unplugged session ever. Layne was broken, and still his performance was flawless.

[@anthonythompson2118]

The way Layne looked back for Cantrell broke my heart......I still cry over it

[@AclockworkPurple]

How is no one commenting on how good everyone sounds? Inez is killing it. Sean is driving everything perfectly and “Mr. Scott Olsen on guitar” is so great as a guitarist it’s almost criminal. Yeah, I love Layne too but damn guys. This would have been an amazing show to experience in person.

[@jekku4688]

I love Jerry's little smile when singing "well, I'll love you anyway..." He loved Layne so hard, it was probably like watching your own child wither away...excruciatingly painful, knowing how talented he was.... 😭💔

[@Babyblues888]

Layne had a talent that no one else could quit reach, impeccable vocal skills. May he Rest In Peace!

[@stevezack6077]

Layne staley, chris cornell legends

[@tonyallewellyn7304]

@@stevezack6077 for sure

[@chrisbryant7911]

Layne was a living legend, this entire show was unbelievably good and mike inez had that bass sounding RIGHT the whole night

[@scottherrmann1358]

From 3:37-3:39 shows how Cantrell and Staley had such a beautiful sound when their voices harmonized. I've never heard anything like it.

[@sullyholmes9379]

it's so rare that a band can sound so perfect when playing live, yet alice in chains pulls it off perfectly 👍👍

[@dionpaschini5262]

It was magic and the price for this magic was ?¿ 🤔🤔🤔 Great album for sure.

not so much, his vocals are off

[@ciscojames104]

@@dionpaschini5262 obviously his voice was a little off hadn't performed in forever and was in the grips of addiction still sounds amazing

[@roseaguilar876]

4 sure bro

[@roseaguilar876]

My opinion best unplugged ever other than Nirvana of course.🤟🎸🎶😎😎😎

[@jayr7471]

It must have been mind blowing to be a part of this audience. I hope everyone there knew they were witnessing something very special.

[@christoph3903]

God I love Layne. What a band.

[@chris_the_forester]

God damn what a song! I had to listen to this with professional headphones to properly appreciate the sound and mixing quality of this show. Every single string pick in the background is layered to perfection. Especially at 2:20 done by the second guitarist Scott Olson. Can't forget Sean's unique drumming as well. Layne's vocals don't even need to be spoken for. Just a masterpiece!

[@joser81]

Have heard this song hundreds of times but just picked up on what you pointed out @2:20

[@daveybuckyou5883]

Still remember the day I first heard it. Seems like yesterday man.

[@TheStepmonkey]

Good ear! Scott helps to create that fuller sound

[@That0neMonkey]

God I miss the 90s so much it hurts.

[@obsidian2404]

Me to man, me to..

[@Almadanim]

same here bro

[@ardynblackmore9654]

Same, guys, same.

[@astraluna6is9]

Hard times. Some of us didn’t make it out.

[@tonyallewellyn7304]

Me too

[@CambriaPelletier6090]

How bittersweet it is to be able to cherish this MTV Unplugged version of a raw, stripped-down AIC.

[@futureright7]

Layne is such a kind of musician that people cannot help missing..He was so much a musician. RIP.

[@elijah.s4898]

Man I'm gonna cry the best voice ever for real

[@evilness6950]

😪

[@gim9536]

I'm a 43 year old man and I'm crying! I love it!

[@franzcamus29]

yes...it is

[@jflannel1965]

ehh jim morrison

[@metalsharon6335]

I hear you!!

[@nelliesilvers1210]

"You my friend I will defend And if we change Well, I'll love you anyway". This is such a phenomenal version of a nostalgic and beautiful song and those lyrics will always be some of my most favourite. Layne was struggling for a long time and he was barely holding his life together here but he was so perfectly genius and phenomenal at what he did, he still pulled off a performance of a lifetime. Jerry had food poisoning and had a bin by his side for nausea but he, too, still made this the best MTV Unplugged session ever and memorable. I LOVE Nirvana's session but this one's my favourite for sure. R.I.P, Layne and Kurt. Your wings are no longer denied 🤘🏻💜

[@loringbush3319]

Alice in Chains and Nirvana are the two best unplugged concerts ever done.

[@ardynblackmore9654]

Pearl Jam has one hell of a good one, too. All grunge bands had the best friggin unpluggeds, ever.

[@galilalexandro4392]

@Алиф Даль Мим just stop dude🤦‍♂️, both of them kick ass

[@galilalexandro4392]

@Osama Bin Liftin’ no, just like @Ardyn Blackmore said, “All grunge bands had the best friggin unpluggeds”

[@TheStepmonkey]

@@galilalexandro4392 Nah, anyone with ears knows that AIC unplugged is better. Not only that, they were the best band from the grunge scene.

[@galilalexandro4392]

@@TheStepmonkey just stop, it’s getting so damn annoying, every grunge band is different, they all had a unique sound and unique voices.

[@tysonwilliams4467]

Layne's voice sounds better here than on the album, I can't be the only one who thinks so.

[@jessicap9832]

Tyson Williams He always sounded better live. His grittiness doesn’t get translated properly in production.

[@pberPSR]

absolutely

[@ali965]

the tortured approach he took in this unplugged spoke volumes in comparison to any other unplugged performance. this man shone in live concerts. rest easy layne

[@mattsmagicmycology21295]

It doesnt sound better. It is better lol he was sooo high during this

[@mattsmagicmycology21295]

@chic rad guy sings better on the ron

[@vanessajanik4623]

You could tell Jerry was really enjoying what they were doing. Those harmonies are the best.

[@jpl3-g2b]

I love Jerry's face when he says "... And if we change, well i 'll love you anyway"

[@truufinator]

Holy shit that drum part is so involved. Especially the intro. Love to see a cover that matches it.

[@cassidylooney249]

It's alright There comes a time Got no patience to search For peace of mind Layin' low Want to take it slow No more hiding or Disguising truths I've sold Everyday it's something Hits me all so cold Find me sittin' by myself No excuses, then I know It's okay Had a bad day Hands are bruised from Breaking rocks all day Drained and blue I bleed for you You think it's funny, well You're drowning in it too Everyday it's something Hits me all so cold Find me sittin' by myself No excuses, then I know Yeah, it's fine We'll walk down the line Leave our rain, a cold Trade for warm sunshine You my friend I will defend And if we change, well I Love you anyway Everyday it's something Hits me all so cold Find me sittin' by myself No excuses, then I know

[@curtiskjobech9477]

Thankyou!

[@thelounge622]

Thanks man!

[@elonlageslimacover1718]

love you

[@elonlageslimacover1718]

thank you

[@foxrox2588]

Thank you!

[@slipped21]

Rest in Peace Layne, it's now 2019, 17 years later and I will forever play your body of work.

[@shinelanguage2555]

Thanks.

[@badmandansanchez1823]

Fuck, 17 years really?

[@bobbythompson4268]

It’s probably more Jerry Cantrell’s body of work but whatever

[@khof11]

"Find me sitting by myself...no excuses that I know" Pretty haunting knowing that Layne spent his last days alone in his apartment and local dive restaurant..

[@keironhiggspoet]

the last verse "you my friend/I will defend and if we change/i love you anyway" is one of my favourites of their catalogue. in my life i've spent years burning bridges but friends due to occasionally being difficult, but the ones I've kept along the way I've always sent this lyric to them. its heartfelt as it is beautiful. the real people know..

[@jensclarberg6419]

Never seen any drummer been so ready to play No Excuses ever. Straight in.

[@kaloyanyunchov8518]

AIC!!!!! Master class, without comment! RIP Layne!

[@rodtaylor5476]

Let's take a moment to appreciate the absolutely excellent drumming from Sean Kinney.

[@deborahcooney9326]

Love them all. Layne and Jerry harmonizing like this is perfect magic.

[@karenzanes]

Can never get enough of Layne and Jerry's harmonies.

[@funwithfood7451]

Sean’s drum technique is on point there is such a crisp snap of each note. He’s has an even touch timing is unmatched!!

[@saaturn.1659]

When Jerry said "I love u anyways" he can't hide the smile

[@mikkelandersen7788]

This goes straight in the heart and puts a big smile on my tearfull face. Will allways remember Layne and Mike. All the best from Denmark

[@My3Sons333]

Layne’s little head shaking @ 2:39 let’s me know he’s happy during this song.

[@slepwick01]

By far my favorite song on an incredible unplugged set. The way that Layne goes a step higher on the last word of the lines immediately before the chorus and then drops back down at the last moment to the harmony note is genius. sounds amazing. (i.e. the lines "no more hiding or disguising truths I've sold", "you think it's funny? well, you're drowning in it too", and "if we change...")

[@Rickkelley365]

Jerry Cantrell - one of the finest musicians, and best friends, ever. Thank you for never giving up on your bro. RIP Layne

[@celebrant9]

This record is my safe place. Thank you Alice in chains, rip Layne and Mike, gone but NOT forgotten 🤘

[@kathyhall1904]

Layne stoned off his ass, yet still sounds great, Jerry just let him sing at his own pace and measure, everytime Layne started to nod, Jerry would slow the pace and drop a key....Cantrell a true pro.

[@notsocrates9529]

What a great friend and bandmate. AIC makes people like me not feel so alone, or strange.

[@crystalsnell2318]

He was stoned and dope sick and still suffering and an amazing unforgettable performance!R.I.P Layne Staley!!Alice in Chains forever!🤘🔥🎶

[@vivnoname]

@@crystalsnell2318He’s nodding at the beginning, but once he took his sunglasses off I suspect it was wearing off. Wish he could have beat his addiction.

[@alexisrae1226]

Ok, so just bawled my eyes out when he was talking at the beginning....still to this day his death breaks my heart.

[@livingstone8347]

You can tell he was suffering greatly. I can relate as an addict, it's a horrible way to live.

[@pwidders]

Such a groove man. I can listen to this song all damn day.

[@cecilia5143]

"you my friend, I will defend; but if we change I love you anyway..." that shit hits hard for me every time I hear it, even when I play it around the person it makes me think about, I just can't help but feel melancholy.

[@kanewest8454]

just brilliant. ''Everyday it's something Hits me all so cold Find me sittin' by myself No excuses, then I know ''

[@CaptainHaddock-x8u]

God I miss MTV Unplugged! Rest in Peace Layne. To this day I still watch and play EVERY single song from AIC at 50 years old. These songs always overwhelm me with nostalgia, and I am happy I discovered grunge ( Pearl Jam's Ten Album with Eddie Vedder and his awesome voice started it all) as an 18 year old in Uganda, East Africa. It got better when I came to Massachusetts when I heard "Nutshell" and I was sold on Alice in Chains... 30 year fan and counting. Thank you Seattle.

[@jenmuncy491]

greatest lead guitar and front man in alternative music

[@vromandodgers]

Agreed.

[@davidquinn7822]

Tom Morrelo is up there

[@cindyfitzgerald4500]

Jen Muncy in all music

[@JunFan777]

Greatest MTV Unplugged performance. Greatest live acoustic performance. Greatest band to come out of the grunge era. Greatest harmonizing vocals. Greatest pairing of a lyricist/frontman and songwriter/lead guitarist. PERIOD.

[@lucastonon3807]

this bassplayer man...is a god

[@PianoGirl76]

This is and always will be the best Unplugged, hands down. Thanks for uploading quality versions for us. Miss ya Layne and Mike ❤

[@renadanicole2343]

Layne wherever you are I hope you’ve found peace and you know just how much you’re still loved. Nobody will ever come close ; you had the most haunting, beautiful, emotional voice of all time... you didn’t even need to try! Just a pure legend ; you’re so missed!! 💔

[@jake-tha-plate]

,n, n m,njnnj n n. no. Nnnnnjnn.oo N n m n n OK iooiok(ookkokokkkkkkk

[@nfshotrod]

Details matter. Shawn Kinney knew the assignment. The touch and control on those hihat accents. It’s a beautiful thing.

[@aidenrogatz8071]

Real music fans know hes the goat

[@scottmadison4163]

Voice just gives chills..even 30 yrs later

[@dustycrawford9815]

Layne's voice is unmistakable

[@JennaTheIcePhoenix]

Layne and Jerry were an iconic duo. It’s just a shame that I would never get to meet Layne, as he passed away when I was almost 10 months old. But, his music still lives within my heart. I plan on getting some merch with him on it for Christmas so I can hold him close to me at night. I apologize if that sounded weird, but Layne’s voice just calms me down and he can say what I never had the guts to. I love you, Layne! You were taken way too soon!

[@johansimoens2689]

Layne's vocals give me goosebumps every single time. What a voice, what talent... So sad he left us so young...