Vocal Coach REACTS: Layne Staley 'Love Hate Love' Live at the Moore 1990

[@Cryptic-1-9-1-1]

Layne Staley to me is without a doubt one of the best vocalists of all time

[@shanemorin499]

Eggnog is gross...

[@SrbijaCG]

One of my favorites aswell, mate. But my all-time favorite, I have to say is Chris Cornell.

[@hopsonkim4952]

apollo11bb no one should have a problem with either name. Cornell is obviously a more classically talented singer, but no one had the ability like Layne to just rip his and your soul out with a performance.

[@sidou9149]

Yes he is for sure

[@SrbijaCG]

@@hopsonkim4952 mate, I love Layne Staley. And I have absolutely no problem with him. He has a powerful, amazing, and unmistakable voice. And this "Love, Hate, Love" live performance on Staleys part, I would say is about the equivalent to "Beyond the Wheel" Cornells live (90s) vocal performance. But, like I said- Staley is one of my favorites, but my all time favorite is Cornell. Personal preference, which in no way undermines Staley.

[@willy565]

You can't "teach" this. Layne was one of a kind. Miss him.

[@josefk.122]

willy565 Layne did actually take vocal lessons, but was already pretty fucking good to begin with.

[@hexadecimal973]

He had the same coach as Cornell

[@davidpacholski7144]

absolutely, i saw him in CT in 1990 when they were nothing, this is beautiful

[@Rumpelstilzchenbrdrdr]

​@@davidpacholski7144 I was at them in Moscow last year. Duvall was cool, but I can imagine what Staley was doing. You are wildly lucky.

[@mojo6112]

@@Rumpelstilzchenbrdrdr you’re wildly lucky as well. I’ve never seen a band live and probably will never get to see one as a kid. Life’s good

[@lizardkking]

Everything in this performance is perfect to me. Layne's voice, Jerry's solo, the band, the ambient, the lights, the photography...

[@grantos28cars]

I totally agree!! that whole concert was perfect to me, black and white made it even better, what a masterpiece, no frills, just raw emotional haunting rock.

[@bbms647]

Yeah, it's probably my favorite live performance of theirs that I've found. Unfortunately, apparently the whole concert was not recorded, there is just about half an hour of it. 😔. At least we have that though.🙂

[@kf8346]

You should watch live mad season. Everything layne did was amazing. The mad season live stuff is on a whole other level. You will never look at a saxophone the same again after watching their cover of “I don’t wanna be a soldier” by John Lennon.

[@lizardkking]

@@kf8346 Just watched your recommendation, blowed my mind bro haha ​​loved it!

[@bbms647]

YES! Mad season live at the Moore is excellence, if you own a record player, BUY that album, it's probably my best record album that I own. SSSOOOOOOO much depth.

[@STETTRACE]

He’s holding on to the microphone but he’s letting go of EVERYTHING else

[@monicaholmstedt5724]

🤘 the fucking best

[@CP-kb1du]

Layne means Business when both hands are on the mic .

[@Hellahard]

When he takes the mic off the stand... You know

[@MrMaxDammann]

I wish I could see vid of him doing junkhead for the studio cut. I could quite possibly lose control of everything including my bowels if witnessed that.

[@shilohivy4590]

Facts. That’s such a beautiful way to explain this legendary voice.

[@melissamissingchriscornell2513]

I seriously watch EVERY KZbin reaction to this version of Love Hate Love, just to see the reactors face when Staley, in all his glory, hit those long, sustained chords with his Staley'esq vibrato, like no one else can. The most unique & hauntingly BEAUTIFUL voice in hard rock PERIOD. The best realization is that Layne has had NO vocal training, NO vocal lessons. In my eyes Laynes voice has no imperfections...just 100% pure brillance. I am one of the few extremely lucky & grateful ones to have seen Staley preform live while in Mad Season, & I still remember every EPIC moment like it was yesterday. Welcome home ma man, welcome home.

[@StayinInMyLayne]

I absolutely that echo your response! I watch Love Hate Love live at The Moore almost everyday and I get goosebumps!... phenomenal!!!

[@mandersen7749]

Layne had vocal training sessions in Seattle !

[@casey10bb]

@@mandersen7749 That's to be proven cuz every time ppl back down on this comment. The only lessons that are factual are from "Carr" for 4-6 weeks right b4 they went out on the road for the 1st time & given to Jerry too.

[@illfather7066]

No Vocal Lessons? Sry you need to check ur facts ...he used the same one lead singer of heart used queensryche or some shit and others...where did you hear that? Actually the vocal couch from FB had the same teacher and is name dropped in the last AIC book...he talked to me on comments about it....that fact can be figured out quick ....however hes got it all like u said.. (:

[@melissamissingchriscornell2513]

@@illfather7066 um, yeah LATER ON, after years of drug addiction & strained vocals, but back in 1990 when this was preformed...NOPE. THATS WHAT IM TAKING BOUT PPL SO MOVE ALONG. Don't believe everything you read my dear. I know people, that's all I'm going to say. Half that book is NOT FACTUAL.

[@coutinhothrash666]

"The next song...is about pain" This defines de 90's seattle sound more than any other words.

[@ameixa7878]

Im a simple man i see alice in chains i click

[@mikkelandersen7788]

He he same here...

[@lueymeteora1410]

R U the same Bruiser who drops this line on every. single. music. video on KZbin?? ..Or R U just a Lamenoid, copying it and feeling awesome from the likes??

[@John-mg3wp]

Somos 2

[@mtrainor999]

Simple, but also smart.

[@teresamount7166]

It makes me cry to know this voice is forever gone. Such a tragedy. He was absolutely amazing! No other voice in the world like it. You are dearly missed Layne!!! My heart aches.

[@mindjab]

it is not forever gone 😂 you can listen to his voice whenever you want

[@goldenruletv7301]

It's not. It's forever.

[@barbara-annperry5941]

@@mindjab Yes, but he is not here to create more music.

[@jeffersonott4357]

Early 30s, right? Why, how?

[@dizzle7558]

One of One..

[@davecassady7468]

"That gritty, growly shout at the top of his range..." That wasn't the top of his range.

[@leahharmony8219]

That's exactly what I said!! He needs to watch man in the box live and watch Layne near pass out from the emotional outpour!!

[@essentialviews390]

.. it wasnt the top of his range in this song. but he just wanted people to know what he was referring to.

[@MrKoolaidjam]

@@leahharmony8219 The highest note he hits in the this song is a Bb4 same with man in the box. Or I think so at least

[@susannebrandenburg1380]

Sure wasn’t

[@netrioter]

@@MrKoolaidjam he gets up there in The Real Thing too

[@aoflex]

There's nowhere to go after this performance. You've reached the top

[@spiritanimal8836]

❤️

[@davius1911]

well they did release like 5 other albums after this...

[@LeGod623]

layne doing man in the box in 90 is elite

[@KarlDelaney99]

Yes there is, Man In The Box in Dallas

[@bigbillhaywood1415]

Junkhead singles party.

[@nightknight7208]

My single favorite performance from my single favorite singer of all time. Absolute legend.

[@dmphax]

Easily one of the best rock performances of all time.

[@themichaellaweraproject]

Agree 100%.. he made his singing look so easy.. I still get goosebumps when I hear unplugged.

[@bodarkman1]

Dude best reaction Ive aeen too lol... duse could t help it and was real about it.

[@gnomechomsky2524]

The Dallas 1990 performance was even better

[@SugarBooger10]

Named my son Layne 💓

[@betsylee8160]

I love that you actually got caught up in the genius that was Layne Staley. You let the enjoyment of the experience take you away instead of feeling that you had to critique every note. Bravo

[@audiolego]

I'm getting into the new Chains stuff

[@cyndimroczkowski4921]

Layne is PERFECTION. He's the only vocalist that could make my bones cry....

[@Vaygon]

Lany wasn't just a perfect voice, he was a genuine , funny guy.. he didint deserve to die alone in his house.. man is so sad... wherever you are Layne i hope you are happy

[@cyrusblackwood33]

Layne's vocal ability is probably the most powerful I've ever heard in my 44 years, an amazing talent taken too soon.

[@PereVale]

Layne: "... peel the skin from your face..." *Ken proceeds to touch his face* (2:37)

[@davidpacholski7144]

yes!!!! LOL

[@warrencave1013]

Sure did and he freaked out when he figured out how to sing like him . He said easyyyyy and he freaked out looked at the tv like wtf is going on so good.

[@cybergrunge2000]

🤣

[@justavictim9432]

Not only does Layne pull you in with his emotion but his vocal control is exquisite

[@sorchx]

And his breath control. When I try to sing along I'm like gasping for air half way through one of his 'Yeahsss' haha.

[@goudagirl6095]

No voice lessons or vocal coaching either, that I know of. All self taught, self-controlled. So unique. Even when he was completely ravaged by smack, no teeth, etc. he managed to put out 2 more songs that sound just as good as anything else they did. To say he was blessed is putting it mildly. To say that he ground that blessing into the DIRT is putting it mildly too.

[@apukal]

He actually did a lot of voice lessons, with Maestro David Kyle, who was also the vocal coach of Chris Cornell, Ann Wilson and even dating back to Bing Crosby. He came into the lessons with an incredibly powerful voice but improved his vocal control and breathing technique. But yeah, definitely had a lot of lessons and trained his voice everyday.

[@hannahrose2147]

@@apukalSource?

[@rat4spd]

I wore this era like a warm blanket. The pain was so relatable.

[@chrisparsons6686]

Amen to that😔😢💯

[@spiritanimal8836]

Still do

[@ladyblazinsoulz]

Same...still is beyond relatable. I miss Layne. RIPOWER.....🖤

[@biancahernandez3541]

Feel this in my bones to this day ❤️

[@rickywilliams9937]

Probably the voice I miss hearing the most to this day is Layne’s. AIC had such great chemistry.

[@youn1700]

Layne Staley basically stood out amongst really great singers of the 1990s. Almost all of them are dead at this point, sadly. The music of that era is very from the heart.

[@joeyc1725]

Maynard is still alive and was good friends with layne Staley

[@stevenwilliams1805]

Eddie Vedder is still with us, dispite his crazy stage antics.

[@joeyc1725]

@@stevenwilliams1805 I never watched em, but now I gotta check that out.

[@stevenwilliams1805]

@@joeyc1725 Eddie would be climbing up all over the place and dive into the crowd. Looking back, I can't remember hearing about him getting hurt. Philip Anselmo of Pantera apparently did jumping from dangerous heights.

[@nico.ch029]

@@stevenwilliams1805 that man is crazy lol

[@a_d_s5361]

The “lost inside my sick head” vocals are the highlight of this perfect performance. I’ve looped maybe 1,000 times already. Cant get enough. Unreal. The power.

[@noellealdi881]

My favorite part as well!

[@mothvile]

Idk those last yeaahs were monstrous

[@KyleS.1987]

I always loved the way this song uses dissonance to keep the listener on edge. And my goodness, Layne was just so gifted. I miss him.

[@casey10bb]

well said.

[@leahflower9924]

i miss mike starr too he was so cool a real metalhead if i ever saw one :)

[@WilliamMonroe13]

Layne's singing was a Hurricane,Force,Power Unrestrained Destruction...He's just Brilliant...❤️

[@TheOriginalADGuy]

Chills... Nothing more needs to be said.

[@tracytomczak8390]

I so agree with this statement

[@itsjustme6905]

Every time

[@leahflower9924]

this guy's layne's impersonations are hilarious and how geeky he is compared to AIC is priceless

[@riley5032]

2:50 gives me chills

[@Sindollx666x]

Yes totally gives me goosebumps and a single tear came down first time i watched this performance.

[@Nik-ko9eq]

That man's voice. It does things to me. He was absolutely amazing. As a whole, this band was amazing. They gave their all in these performances.

[@mrfreakmaster2256]

alice in chains in not about being perfect, that right...is all about the feels. tool and now alice in chains? ok i subscribe

[@williamtwiner9940]

agreed 100%

[@Music-Heals-1111]

He had me at sweet creamy eggnog 😂

[@wotwot6868]

Perfect is good too, this channel reacted to Queensrÿche's Take hold of the flame early on.

[@tk4625]

Right?? Top 2 bands for me.

[@pamelawilkins8737]

I'm an AIC fan through and through and his reaction to Layne's vocals was priceless. Had me laughing. Yes Layne is that mind-blowing! This show is my favorite AIC performance.

[@jamesmcnichols3817]

Layne was one of the best things to ever happen to music.

[@Vaygon]

Yeah.. and forever will be. RIP Legend Layne

[@bistronomics]

If you get a chance, do another reaction with Alice in Chains. One thing that is signature of them that isn't heard in this song is the great harmonized vocals between Layne Staley and the guitarist Jerry Cantrell.

[@idrinkdiesel8451]

i 100% agree, No Excuses is a brilliant song for that imo

[@ryano460]

I would say down in a hole is amazing to see their harmony. Really wonderful. One of my favourite songs. So deep and emotional as well.

[@43captrexkramer]

I will fight anyone who thinks there is a better vocal harmony than those two. their lyrical as well as musical song structure is as good as there has EVER BEEN!!!

[@MrMaxDammann]

43captrexkramer ha ha. I’d back you up

[@trentanderson1685]

@Vinter I’ll hold your beers while you back up the back up

[@kevinhuetson7701]

Your facial expressions around the 3 minute mark basically say everything that needs to be said in this video...Layne was incredible

[@cherrynchainz]

I love watching these reaction videos to Layne's vocals. We the fans know. We know every note, every inflection and WE get to anticipate and then react to The Reactor. It's great fun watching someone get a crash course in Staleyism. Rest in peace, Layne. You will always be greatly missed and much appreciated!

[@kristimarriner7673]

Hypnotizing isn’t it? Perfect performance, musically, vocally lyrically. Have seen this video probably over a hundred times and I am still mesmerized, cannot look away. Pain in every note. RIP Layne 😔

[@jacencib]

feel you, so did I during the last 10 years. This and the "Junkhead" live performances are my favs.

[@petertorgerson6617]

I love watching professional singers’ “O” face when they experience Layne Staley’s performances. Melting faces and hearts … kind of like winning hearts and minds.

[@petertorgerson6617]

Not that Layne wasn’t a professional singer, but… “this is what greatness sounds like…”

[@TheStepmonkey]

IKR

[@nerderspree]

It's so rare that a singer can literally draw out every single ounce of emotion and sound that their body has to offer. He was reaching down into the depths of his soul here. One of his fellow musicians once said that when he heard Layne sing live, he was so powerful that his voice would literally overpower the monitors. You could hear him over the electronics. It's also been said that his voice would reverberate in your chest when he'd sing live. That's just another level. Idk if people understand how special he was.

[@antemorph66]

Imperfect technique gives singers their own unique sound. When everyone follows the "proper" techniques they start to sound the same

[@SlightlyUnderAverage]

Well put. Goes with everything in life really

[@antemorph66]

@@SlightlyUnderAverage absolutely

[@RyTrapp0]

That's just not true at all - the sounds we make are directly related to our individual unique body makeup. Even similar sounding vocalists will get there in slightly different ways because we all have slightly different proportions, muscle size/strength, throat, vocal chords, mouth shapes, ALL of this from our very feet influencing our posture shapes our voices. "Proper technique" varies on an individual basis, they're general concepts that you apply to yourself rather than direct instructions that apply exactly and univerally. Technique is goal dependent, it depends on what you're trying to do, what you want to do. You don't use classical singing techniques for black metal; and yet there ARE proper techniques for screaming, growling, gravely tones, vocal fry, whatever you want to call it. Check out *Chris Liepe's* KZbin channel(channel name the same as his name) - he's without a doubt by far the best rock/metal 'vocal coach' I've found in a decade of interest in this stuff on YT; the difference is that he's not afraid to make sounds that people think sound "embarrassing" because it doesn't sound "good"(it's like people don't understand what "practice" actually is; no, it's not about trying to impress yourself, it's about achieving the goal at the end...), in the name of actually learning how to make these sounds in a fashion that is consistently repeatable without causing damage. He recently put up a 'Marilyn Manson' breakdown/how-to that really illustrates that. His 'Devin Townsend' video is great, 'Chino Moreno', 'Phil Anselmo', a lot of good ones, as well as a ton of strictly technique videos(the best screaming/fry/growl videos out there, as well as more standard singing/vocals). Anyway, the point is that his videos only drive this sentiment home. Whenever your goal is to sound like your influences, should you actively pursue that goal and have a roughly similar enough natural voice, yea, you CAN sound like other singers. That isn't the fault of good technique - that's the fault of personal goals, intentional or otherwise(not realizing that the sound you're chasing is the sound of your influences). It's not a coincidence that the major 'grunge' singers have a similar overall sound/quality from using similar styles & techniques; they all had similar influences("pre-grunge" bands of the late-'70s to early-'80s) and influenced each other. For instance, heavy emphasis on the "er" sound is found in most every grunge singer's sound - it comes with the style, even if 'Alice in Chains' and 'Soundgarden' don't exactly sound like one another.

[@antemorph66]

@@RyTrapp0 ive heard chris. Hes a really good singer who sounds like 100 other singers. Nothing unique there at all. You cant teach someone to sound like Staley or Cornell. A lot of people have tried and a lot have failed including myself. You can teach their techniques but you won't sound like them

[@MrBodyman5001]

@@antemorph66 I had this exact convo with my wife. No amount of lessons could have made me Layne or Shaq or Mary Lou Retton. I could have been a pro football player or UFC fighter or even a golfer. This I could never do

[@MGV23]

Layne is one of the greatest of all time, period.

[@davidriddick82]

You should do Man In The Box and Bleed The Freak from the same show Live At The Moore. It was by far his greatest vocal performance 🤘🏻 RIP Layne Staley

[@BradCross1982]

I just commented this same thing 😂🤘🏽

[@dylancampbell8064]

Look up Bleed The Freak Seattle 1990, at about 3:18, he screams and doesn't have the mic close to his mouth and his voice still fills the room, its insane.

[@kristimarriner7673]

Any song from this show is worth watching.💚

[@billh5080]

unplugged was amazing

[@tristanfrieri7471]

I also suggested bleed the freak. Another amazing song that shows his unbelievable voice. He will never have anyone that will ever sing it better because he's the best. It's hard 2 top anything he sang because of pure emotion. RIP Layne Staley

[@patches6309]

Laynes control of his entire register, especially the extreme lows then being able to flip the switch on command and hit an F5 was legendary even back then. He inspired so many singers to study and become more technical if you were not blessed with the incredible natural gift that he had.

[@Supernautiloid]

I remember an interview with Jerry Cantrell where he said Layne was his favorite vocalist. No one could do what Layne could do with his voice.

[@gnomechomsky2524]

Have you listened to the Dallas 1990 performance of this song?

[@AlerieHightower]

@@gnomechomsky2524 I was AT that performance. Even my goosebumps had goosebumps.

[@gnomechomsky2524]

@@AlerieHightower It's probably the best AIC concert I've ever heard, and I've listened to a ton of them online. Lucky you!

[@Crash-Rest-Yummy]

@@AlerieHightower Lol, nice way to put it

[@Malediction99]

Layne absolutely at the top of his game. Harsh, melodic and powerful.

[@mcflyboarder9537]

The fact that it was live, but looked like a music video, so rad.

[@TheStepmonkey]

IKR, it was that perfect 👌

[@Apitome1]

Layne is the man.RIP Makes my hair stand everytime I hear this song.

[@Apitome1]

STP Scott Weiland

[@iveeltkhantushig7395]

Mad season Layne Staley , Mark Lanengan long gone day is such a good song too Layne combined with Jazz

[@fjolagu]

O yes, I second that!

[@Pepsolman]

Long gone daaaaaayyyyyy (Woah, woah-oh yeah) Who ever said we'd wash away with the rain?

[@iveeltkhantushig7395]

Pepsolman Oh I remember everyday each time a place was saved The music that we made The wind has carried all of that away Long gone day

[@nm1983]

YES YES YES!!!!!!!!!

[@caynancrenshaw]

I agree... but dont forget he did a cover up I Dont Wanna Be a Soldier. its another good song mixed with jazz like

[@melaniejordan1199]

There isn't a proper adjective to describe that vocal. He had THE MOST PERFECT VIBRATO of all time.

[@alexjlg]

Yes, It is one of those performances. You just cant say much more about it. When they shine so bright that no words are necessary.

[@bighawk16]

He's so captivated watching this. Love to see it

[@mattsniper362]

I love watching people react to this - layne is from another dimension. Incredible vocalist

[@TheTherunt]

When you watch a vocal coach melt... you know there is something special happening!!!

[@5891jonathan]

The audio is extraordinarily good for a live performance in a venue like this. There’s a video of Man in the Box from this same concert. Check it out.

[@christoskoutsikopoulos4715]

Layne was just the most charismatic human being that ever walked the earth, exactly because he never gave a damn about being pristine vocally. It all came so naturally to him, he would just open his mouth and let him soul out to embrace the audience to the core. I hate dope for many reasons, one of them being it depraved us of Lane...

[@lwheatcraft]

Deprived*

[@christoskoutsikopoulos4715]

@@lwheatcraft yeah, you're right, typo 😉

[@dimondroof]

We hear you bro.....

[@rachel.en3101]

Goosebumps EVERY time 🖤😢

[@jj-nh8lz]

True artists who brought something absolutely unique and unrivaled.

[@43bumpy]

Thank you for looking at this song/video. Layne was such a gifted singer and so charismatic. I've been a fan since day one. It's so sad demons haunted him til he died. I miss him. This performance always gives me chills and leaves me in Awe. AIC songs were about pain, loss.

[@UncleBildo]

Layne was a good dude. Unbelievable with his voice, could sound however he felt like. He took vocal lessons for years from The Maestro David Kyle, who taught many in the Seattle area, including Ann Wilson. Something about the demons he fought gave him the tremendous voice. Always takes me back to my long haired days in Seattle.

[@casey10bb]

why are a few of you saying this about this Maestro guy? When Kyle was asked, he avoided and ignored. There was someone by the name of Carr that did a short stint with Layne AND Jerry just before they first started to tour by the recommendation of the management...(Silver & Curtis). It lasted for only 4-6 weeks...not sure how many times they even went during that time, but Carr is thanked in the liner notes. Please tell me how you know this is true that Kyle taught him?

[@UncleBildo]

@@casey10bb Had a couple different friends taking lessons with Kyle during the period. One, I drove part of the time due to his license often suspended. I can't vouch for exact;u how long he studied with him, what he learned etc, but I know he studied under him. I only have vague memory of mention in passing going into or coming out of NAF Enterprises practice studios in West Seattle. Kyle was an odd old dude, weird exercises. It's been 30 years, so I could be completely off base on it.but that's how my memory serves on it. We sorta followed AIC from a dive practice facility in Tacoma, eventually to Mark Nafferty's setup. Practice Pads Unlimited. Bet Jerry'd grin and shake his head if someone mentioned it to him!

[@casey10bb]

@@UncleBildo Do you know the yrs? And was it just hear say? Reasoning being Kyle mentioned on one of his training videos an off the wall date that would make Layne way too young ...I get it too, it's been awhile. (When I had my convo with Carr it was short and sweet and wouldn't say to much info for private reasons.) It's also bizarre then why would Alice's management recommend both Layne & Jerry go see this Carr person for a few weeks just prior to going out on the road to help preserve their voices if Layne already trained with someone else - think he would know better and not need a short few weeks with someone else. And then they thank Carr on the album but not this Kyle guy...

[@UncleBildo]

@@casey10bb would have been like 90-91? I'm not the expert you need, just bumped into the dudes when they were in town. Wasn't really my tree or my monkeys! I was focused elsewhere in the scene. I'll see if the one yet living of 'em remembers.

[@UncleBildo]

@@casey10bb OK, got a little more info, for what it's worth. He didn't study all that long with Kyle, partly due to expense, as Kyle was steep in cost. Sounds like maybe '89/'90 era. Layne had recognized one of the "cavity exercises" my buddy was doing in the hallway at NAF, had laughed, and started doing a couple of Kyles other weird little exercises. That is the extent of obtainable info via my sources!

[@Dechral]

this feels like one of those performances that we are really lucky to have captured in time forever. I hope humans continue to find it for thousands of years to eternity as a reference from a special era in music

[@biancahernandez3541]

❤️💯❤️

[@bobcowlesjr9920]

I love watching people listen to Layne Staley and their reactions to his amazing voice

[@jeremys.9905]

YESSSSSSSS!!!!! Thank you so much, love this reaction Another one to check out would be Mad Season, Wake Up, live at the Moore. Layne Staley on vocals, and Mike McCready from Pearl Jam on guitar. His solo and stage presence is a clinic. So raw.

[@mrfreakmaster2256]

long gone day

[@lastfewtokes]

The last sequence of “Love,Hate,Love” when his voice tops out is just like pure euphoria for me.

[@casey10bb]

Ken this is one of the most unusual reactions I've heard, but a great reaction non the less. But due to your reaction it makes me want to bring up what other musicians/pp have said.. for ex: Ann Wilson has said that Layne is luminescent, and has that "IT" factor-- and sings from a different realm. He seems to have his own shtick - (as you said) & "purposely" goes to sharp/ flat note to create a certain sound. But Layne also sings with a ton of versatility, as well, not just like this, and always with so much emotion from being able to sing very, very strong to beautifully soft in songs like Nutshell or Am I inside, etc. -- maybe why others have said (Billy Corgan) he sings like an angry angel. Another, that Layne projects from his body he's that powerful (Barrett Martin), and is very loud & can 'get it' in one take (Mike McCready) to name a few off the top if I remember correctly. I personally fell in love with his voice for these reasons and more. AND -- we certainly can't forget the Layne/Jerry HARMONIES! To add: Thank you for doing this reaction! Added correction: Thanks to Sportsmom165!! @sportsmom165 Yeah, Tom Morello is right re: angry angel comment, thanks. I get the two comments confused -- Billy Corgan statement read: "Layne had an amazing voice that had such a beautiful, sad, haunting quality about it."

[@joeyc1725]

Mad season-river of deceit and wake up. The whole album you can feel laynes power

[@humanbass]

@@joeyc1725 i love his duet with Lanegan in long gone day

[@joeyc1725]

Yess especially that one

[@sportsmom165]

It was Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine that said he "sang like an angry angel".

[@casey10bb]

@@sportsmom165 Yeah, Tom Morello is right re: angry angel comment, thanks. I get the two comments confused -- Billy Corgan statement read: "Layne had an amazing voice that had such a beautiful, sad, haunting quality about it."

[@vonniedemers5683]

The man in his prime cannot be outdone... He's forever my Rock God 🤘♥️🔥🤘♥️🔥 Thank you for listening to the end without interruption.

[@coltent7282]

90s grunge was an incredible time for vocalists. Layne Staley, Kurt Cobain, Eddy Vedder, Chris Cornell, Scott Weiland, etc. The list goes on.

[@claymccoy]

And only one of them is still alive...

[@stormedcapone]

@@claymccoy it's a damn shame.

[@cherylchaison6363]

There is nobody in grunge that can bring me to tears with thier voice like Layne can

[@cynsan4826]

Love him! He has such a powerful and strong voice. Very charismatic!

[@brampritchard3308]

"That solo" . . . exactly - Jerry's guitar is almost singing / screaming / crying back to Layne. Mr. Staley was one of the most amazing vocalists of his / my generation and left us way too soon, but thank the Lord he left us all with masterpieces like this to enjoy over and over and over again. I had the pleasure of seeing AIC live four times in the early 90s, each one was an absolutely unforgettable experience.

[@jettsom]

He's not only singing the pain, he feels it too! A legend.

[@doro69]

God damn this song always brings tears. Absolute perfection

[@lukesouders4948]

SWEET CREAMY EGGNOG!!!

[@WornDownSaint]

As he double clicks after taking another players Squire piece.

[@greggied123]

He.lookes like he creamed his pants listening to layne

[@gallonthegreat7036]

Doesn't get any more white than that

[@tonkakatt]

I've described his voice as creamy for as long as I can remember.

[@leahflower9924]

there is nothing better than Mike Starr wearing a flannel shirt half buttoned. I'm in heaven.

[@michellep9999]

I’m here for Layne in 2023 just as in 1990. They were amazing live. Layne lives Forever 🙌💗🤘

[@akrup8702]

All the footage from this show is insane. Layne had such a powerful voice.

[@lisakvieira9201]

Just Listening to Layne Staley, Draws Me In!! Thanks for the Memories!!❤👍

[@pjsin9472]

Still miss that singer. He was one of the best ever. Every note he sang was full emotion. He's like Janis Joplin. You don't need technique if you have the right emotion and skill

[@shannongreer6194]

Oh, but he did have tons of technique. This is a very trained voice.

[@Pscans1234]

Once in awhile I get overwhelmed with sadness because I still miss layne. And it just hit me again. An incredible artist

[@vinzclorthokey3716]

This is, maybe, the best live perfomance of a song i've ever heard.

[@AlessioDan]

I have 38 years old, and I listent to AIC from when I was 14...every time him voice make me cry. Every single time!

[@lastfewtokes]

I’m so happy someone is reviewing this performance. It’s the greatest performance of a song I’ve ever witnessed. With that being, Layne Staley is the greatest singer ever.

[@preachercaine]

It's always fun to watch someone see/hear this performance

[@BradCross1982]

Man in the Box and Bleed the Freak same show 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@michaelerdos6917]

This man had the most raw talent I have ever seen. RIP Layne.

[@daisho13]

The expressions on your face were telling such a story. Great video. Stay safe mate.

[@davedave9780]

Lol...All these "reaction" people go though all the fake facial expressions....it's funny to watch these bad actors.....that being said...RIP Layne...you were and still are the best.

[@kdsmoke]

Layne was and always will be my #1 singer!!! His voice was extraordinarily great, gritty, perfectly prefect in every way, he was just a beast!! RIP young man, he deserved so much more peace than he allowed himself to have 💔

[@courtneychapron-engi9290]

R.I.P. Layne Staley! Greatest voice ever in my opinion....I named my son after him

[@davidedemurodominijanni9889]

I just can't say anything new about Layne Staley anymore, I've said it all a zillion times . No word can make justice to this gifted artist and, most of all, human being. This song is about pain, pain I shared with this angel of his own time and forever! R.I.M.{Rest in Music}, Layne...

[@ocelotsix6six]

Seeing them 91 92 and then 2019 . layne pulls the hairs off your arms with every note. What a talent

[@oldtimer4888]

Layne and Jerry brought out the best in each other...the band simply kicked ass.

[@walshy2116]

I’ve watched this show a million times. It takes me back to my youth over and over. I’ve lost my brothers and son from that time. It’s always a bitter sweet thing for me! Also you did a perfect analysis of this song by just listening and taking it all in and leaving it at that. Speaks volumes about you!

[@adamgilmore7081]

Imagine a world where Layne Staley takes music lessons and learns that type of singing might hurt his vocal chords and then we get a shittier, flatter version of Love,Hate,Love that you don’t truly feel the emotions and the pain in his voice. Good reaction dude.

[@john-wg2vm]

Most versatile singer in rock. Period. Listening to this then to River of Deceit. Pretty Wilde

[@bailzchevalier4119]

I always try so hard to just watch the reaction of the person watching.. but I'm always so mesmerised by layne staley .. what a voice..❤

[@dgrat1000]

So true

[@wfly81]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it, and that you were kind to Layne. I know it's pitchy at times, and the technique is (as you said), dangerous. Also (as you said), it's not important that it be a perfectly executed performance, or that he's not properly supporting his diaphragm...or even pushing from the right place in his body. A lot of professionally trained singers would scoff at this and rip it to shreds. It's rock-n-roll...it's raw emotion...it would be incorrect to sing it correctly. I'm actually glad you didn't analyze this from an academic standpoint, because it would be brutal...and it would also be inappropriate.

[@casey10bb]

I get what you mean, but I don't necessary agree that Ken was trying to be kind on purpose. He did say that Layne "deliberately" went from sharp to flat, which is true. I watched a reaction video (on this same live version) where the person (who doesn't know of Layne) said that it seemed to be 'this singers' shtick to sing the way he's singing for reaction and emotion, and I believe that as well. Layne sings so many different ways -- take the song: it's coming after.....he sang it early on and sounds completely different. When Layne wants to deliberately hold or roll his "R's" he does it.....like other deliberate things he does in other songs.....always trying to get the proper effect or emotion for THAT song. And, you don't necessarily ruin your voice to get the rasp in it if done correctly as taught by vocal coaches. I really like Ken and his attitude, but not sure how much he knows about singing rock. He also said that Layne is holding the mic for stability but Layne shows he doesn't need any stability at the end of the song to get his power.....hmm...idk, maybe I misunderstood.

[@wfly81]

I just meant that Layne wasn't classically trained as a singer, and a professionally trained singer could point out a lot of things that are technically incorrect in his technique.

[@analozada9475]

Layne is definitely one of the absolute best vocalists ever. The special thing about him is that his soul morphs into his voice, and his voice touches your soul...not many singers can do that like Layne does. 🖤✨

[@drtb69]

His voice is so unique and I would bet Layne felt tons of pain in his life so it is very REAL singing.

[@RockLatitudes]

I have seen several vocal coaches comment on this song and they all went over the top. It's simple. This guy got it. You are just witnessing a moment in time when these musicians were at the top of their game. Layne especially. And you can't do anything but admire it and be blown away by it. What's more to say. I loved seeing his face while listening to Layne. It was worth more than any comment. Except perhaps what he said at the end. Layne found a way to do this night after night, but it is not something any one can just try and do. Like eating swords, that's the kind of danger you are messing with. I loved that comment from Ken.

[@jrevs_]

All of their mtv unplugged is reactionable too, I'll let u know that haha

[@badgerbee1879]

I was going to say the same thing. It's much different than this, but also very good.

[@willy565]

Frogs Unplugged.....Master piece.

[@jrevs_]

@Rowan Melton I always recommend Down in a hole or Would, because you can see how Layne complemented with Jerry in those two. But in almost every other song like Sludge factory or Got me wrong he can see Layne's full power even in that moment of his life.

[@dylangajdosik964]

They should have done their unplugged in 93 or 94. Layne was pretty sick by 1996.

[@mattheavey91]

@@dylangajdosik964 they were on hiatus from mid 93-95-6ish mostly because of Laynes health

[@tsbeech]

What a wonderful, gifted man. This guys music probably saved my life in the 90's.

[@susanrodriguez684]

I loved watching your reaction to this! This is my favorite live vocal performance of all time. Layne Staley was incredible and extremely underrated. So much power in his voice and his ability to control it is insane.

[@user-bp9zj9xs2y]

This is the best reaction i've seen of this performance, you got some points that most of people didn't, your face says everything most of the times

[@evhleppard]

He was such a unique vocalist, great.

[@DouglasDorner-I812]

I still have the same reaction after the the thousandth time hearing this. And your right about " playing with fire ". I would try and sing like him as a teenager and not be able to talk for days. We miss you Layne.!

[@Diadems6982]

Seen Alice in Chains in 1994 with Ozzy and Sepultura. Layne Staley's voice floored me. Absolutely incredible!

[@pdxorbust27]

to hear him live in the early days was like having your entire body engulfed by the power of his voice. you felt it in your chest,,, my heart still breaks for him.

[@E_U_O]

Layne was the voice of the grunge movement. Chris Cornell was definitely more skilled, plus a phenom of a poet\songwriter. Layne though, he was our voice. Angry chair!

[@BoyDharma]

So true, I have missed his presence since he passed but fortunately I can always listen to him and remember again.

[@E_U_O]

@El-ahrairah I suppose you're not wrong. It's hard for me to remember the chronology, I idolized their lifestyle a bit too much in my 20s and 30s so... Thanks for clarifying some of the blur.

[@E_U_O]

@El-ahrairah You have a nuanced look at music, thanks.

[@E_U_O]

@El-ahrairah It looks like you're good at what you do. What more could one ask for?

[@hopsonkim4952]

I don’t know, I love Layne and Chris, they’re somewhere in my top 3-5, but I think the “voice” of the movement would have to be Kurt. And I like AIC, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden more than Nirvana, and I could maybe make an argument for STP based on personal preference. But being in middle school at the time, everyone knew it was Nirvana, even if they weren’t your favorites. On the other hand, if you mean literally his “voice,” as in the intensity and emotionality and distortion and power of his voice best typified grunge, I don’t think I can argue that, although all the bands I mentioned had singers that did it well.

[@vinessac]

Layne’s vocal performances are like an exhilarating rollercoaster ride. The way he used his voice to take you to the highest high and lowest low both literally and metaphorically are what in my opinion made him so special. He didn’t just sing he took you on a journey.