Alice In Chains "Down In A Hole" REACTION & ANALYSIS by Vocal Coach / Opera Singer

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Hey all! I know this is an early posting for a premiere, and a lot of you are going to be angry. Kirk and I are traveling to our vacation spot tonight and tomorrow, so I won't have access to post the premiere tomorrow. Sorry! We WILL be at the live chat on Monday, so I hope to see you all at the premiere! Bests, Elizabeth

[@pathofchaos786]

I've been waiting for this analysis for a while. And I just got done watching Tea Time will Will Ramos that was such a excellent interview.

[@garystubbs5503]

I agree 100%, "Love Hate Love" and also "It aint like that." Live versions.

[@oglschmitt]

You two enjoy your vacation! You've more than earned it. Also, speaking as someone with serious anger issues, I have no idea how anyone could ever be angry at you.

[@james200302]

Alice and Chains also sings “rooster”, which is another good one to look at

[@emodrod1048]

I check your channel every day to see have you anything from ManOwaR or not !!!

[@ianvanry2555]

Seriously, Nutshell. Best described as a man singing at his own funeral. Hands down a perfect example of the pain that made Alice in Chains so amazing. You cannot fake that emotion. It's beautiful.

[@eternal_sl4ughter]

so true

[@ciscojames104]

He just comes out and crushes the song. You cam hear the pain in his voice in all these songs

[@crawdad17]

I love nutshell!

[@AntMelz]

Ya, nutshell is amazing

[@TENDRIL77]

Another great one! How they sing the unplugged version is so perfect. You can tell that they all just jive with the song... perfect.

[@SethComedyFan]

He sounded that way because he was literally dying. This is one of the most genuinely pain-stricken performances ever recorded.

[@bearstokesful]

Agree 1,000%. Its iconic to say the least.

[@Dwlukinbill]

Hardships of life

[@Terk131]

Absolutely, you cannot pretend with this kind of physical and emotional pain. It's so heart felt yet so sad to watch.

[@Allen7]

exactly...i always get so said by hearing this song and his voice...like i fall in some kind of depression...

[@jefferymylen9203]

He wasn't dying stop saying that dumb shit, he was addicted and yes the song is deep but he wasn't at all near death

[@richardphillips8055]

“Friends don’t let friends get friends haircuts “ written on the front of the bass guitar was directed at Metallica. They were seated in the front row sporting their brand new (short) haircuts. If you listen carefully, you can hear that Layne has developed a slight lisp here due to losing teeth to his addiction. Jerry was sick with food poisoning, the lighting director was upset because he had to change the entire lighting color scheme because Layne showed up with pink hair. Also, the candles onstage were bought by Layne at the famous Pike Place Market in Seattle. Just a few fun facts about this legendary show.

[@vojtechhoracek7704]

Jerry had a small garbage bin or bucket next to his chair because he wasn't sure if he wouldn't hurl during the show. And yeah, the way he looks at Layne... he was in pretty bad shape but still sang his heart out and you can see Jerry nodding like, yeah, he's got it.

[@Drakken76]

In part of the "Load" extras disc, James pokes fun at Lars wanting to cut the recording sessions short that day. James makes reference. Loosley quoted as I dont have the auido any longer. "You just wana go to New York and hang out with your new friend Jerry" Rumor I heard back then was... Jerry and Lars went for "colonics" before sound check that day. Party like rockstars!

[@DavidBentley23]

Layne also had to snort a bit of Herion right before he came out as the band started playing Nutshell because he was feeling so dopesick that day.

[@richardphillips8055]

@@DavidBentley23 true. That’s what I’ve heard as well.

[@DavidBentley23]

@@richardphillips8055 Does he have dentures here? I thought that wasn't an issue until they recorded 'Get Born Again' and added the 's' sounds separately. Dave Jerden the producer spilt the beans on that after they fired him in 1999 (they fired him in 98 but I remember reading what Dave said in 99 in Rolling Stone Magazine). He was fired because he yelled at Layne and scared him because it was like 4am and Layne said he had to go to his Sisters wedding after doing no work...after he was yelled at he wrote the lyrics and they recorded...his sister got married 7 months earlier. Also as a side note, Much Music in Canada reported Alice in Chains was recording a full new album for their box set that weekend they were recording (they said it was the start of the new material)...hence why I remember the Dave Jerden story so well. It went from a full album too the dude was dying and no one was acting like it...at least that's what Dave said in 99.

[@catalysis770]

The best part of this is how Layne gives Jerry space. He's not singing over him or treating him like a backup, he's very consciously singing with him

[@anon_laughing_man]

They were best bros.

[@benyaffe5389]

Seriously! Layne is clearly the lead in the studio version but in this it’s like they are sharing the lead perfectly

[@SolidSativa1]

Pretty much the magic of Alice in chains.... Thanks for noticing 🎉

[@hardtymz2517]

best friends til the end

[@sircliffordmalcolmjac5870]

They were always dual leads!! Thats what made them so awesome!! If you watch that unplugged you see just how much lead vocals jerry does!!😁😁🤘🤘🤟🤟

[@cjk1000000]

As a grown man, I'm not afraid to admit that, EVERY SINGLE TIME that I watch this performance, it brings me to tears.

[@DairyAir]

Grown man, with depression issues, crying now, fucker… 😉 the one that I can’t get thru is Johnny Cash’s cover of “hurt”. I have to start half way thru to make it to the end

[@oceanmachine420]

@@DairyAir From Johnny Cash's same cover album, "Hung My Head" also gets me right in the tear ducts every time

[@DairyAir]

@@oceanmachine420 when my boy was 10, he said that he “could really feel that song”. Proud moment

[@chiralityraven337]

@@DairyAir I cannot listen to that song either.

[@vonclod123]

Yup, fight it every time.

[@bgraham74]

Layne had one of the most pained, ghostly yet beautiful voices there ever was. I miss him dearly

[@84mikerider]

I miss him too man. Such a legend.

[@michaeldiaz8058]

He’s arguably one of the best voices of rock , haunting , powerful and simply amazing

[@loloholmes2793]

@@michaeldiaz8058 I rank him up there with Jim Morrison for vocals.

[@TheStepmonkey]

@@michaeldiaz8058 I agree, I would consider him the best voice in rock history right next to Freddie Mercury

[@bradraucci1562]

Perfectly said

[@charleshardison9950]

Layne didn't die of an overdose until 2002, this was recorded in 1996. He stopped making music shortly after this performance. His former fiance died of endocarditis caused by IV drug use. He fell into a deep depression and became a recluse who barely left his Seattle apartment. This lasted for 6 years until he finally passed away in 2002 from a speedball. It's such a heartbreaking story.

[@daleking9439]

What's sadder is nobody checked on him for 2 weeks

[@smokingbananas4013]

​​@@daleking9439 i mean, when you get to this point, you don't really have anybody left to check on you besides the dopeman and if they can't get a hold of you they just go peddle the shit to other junkies. I'm currently basically dying from a drug addiction and nobody has checked on me since January. I overdosed three times in February. I look and feel like I'm dying. But this is how I want it. I don't want anyone I loved to see this.

[@killian001]

@@smokingbananas4013 10 months ago you had someone die in front of you and his sister. You were adamant that you would use it as motivation to stay clean and sober. It breaks my heart to hear you are giving up. Someone at the last moment pulled me out of where you are. All I can say is you can never know how beautiful life truly is until you completely kick. Leave where you are. Get away from it and pray to your god if you have one. You can find the strength to get out of this. You are bigger than this. You are more beautiful than you ever see and feel. Earn your place in heaven and try to walk away from this and the people you know that help facilitate this addiction. You don’t have to die. Gods don’t want you to die. They want you to rise up and show them you took the power back. I never do this but I will pray for you in the hope that you know there are more people that care than you will ever know. Get the help you need - that is the strongest thing to do not the weakest. 🙏🏼

[@lisaowens7629]

​​@@daleking9439 oh my God that is so awful...I didnt know that he was dead 2 weeks before they found him😢

[@NESDwayne]

​@@smokingbananas4013 Shouldn't have to be this way

[@OffGrit]

It is a very emotional Unplugged. Many times you can see Jerry looking and smiling at other band members when Layne hits the notes..like "Our friend is still here.." This is a very sad story

[@AlexAranda-u5w]

I noticed that too. Jerry was cheering him on the whole time. No better example than when Layne fumbled during Sludge Factory and Jerry was there nodding to him saying it's ok, let's run it back. Wow! I miss them together.

[@GregCobb]

Layne could barely sit in place. There were retakes during this session. Jerry was trying to give Layne a boost.

[@thehandsomewolf599]

Jerry held on to hope just the sheer heartbreak that would happen not long after this is so dreadful I feel awful for them

[@avalonjustin]

😢

[@patrickcharles7190]

He gave a few nods of approval. Jerry was a true friend to Layne. Layne gave him a place to stay...and play, when he first moved to Seattle. Layne's horrible addiction disrupted the band, but Ive never heard Jerry say one negative word about Layne. A true friend indeed.

[@gamiensrule]

Alice In Chains were the greatest rock songwriters of the 90s. I'll die on that hill.

[@dobzbro8921]

I'll die with you, rest in peace Layne Staley ❤

[@turbodean4843]

I absolutely agree.

[@diggie9598]

The Soundgarden hill is right next to it, same size, different shape.

[@chardeemacdennis3852]

I'm with you brother

[@lwwells]

Oddly, Third eye blind comes really close to with writing in songs like Narcolepsy and Motorcycle drive by.

[@Pumpkin3.14pi]

Love, Hate, Love at the Moore is probably where you will get the best Layne performance. If you want both voices again, you should do Would from this concert.

[@rosstoolfan]

Would is my first AIC listen and also my first live concert. I was living in Kennewick Washington and couldn't believe they rolled through a town so small! AMAZING experience! RIP Layne 🤘

[@caprise-music6722]

Yes please! I second that!

[@ryanramos9480]

Yes!!! Also Mad Season at the Moore.

[@xlukesnipes]

Yess🙏

[@JoschC]

No please don’t react to this song. It’s not a good recording. I don’t know why people like to say it is. Maybe it’s just a super fan ideology. But do not react to this version of the song. Instead, listen to rooster.

[@LordTyphon01]

You need to hear Layne at his prime. Love Hate Love, live at the Moore. He will absolutely send chills up your spine with his amazing vocal abilities.

[@ruggersgirl10]

One of my favorites! I also love his vocal range on Stay Away!

[@sarahkelly4026]

Yes, it must be the Live at the Moore version. He bends backwards to get out his notes.

[@maxseth1]

Yes!

[@AndreLeaoMacedo]

One up vote for Love Hate Love. I know Elizabeth normally reacts to originals, but this cover from Gabriela Guncikova is a wonderful tribute to Layne and a showcase of how challenging this song can be (on studio) even to a powerful and talented singer such as Gabriela. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqqbmnaDl6atf6s

[@kainslance]

Sea of Sarrow also

[@JeffCogswell]

"He's so doing so little physically but the sound that's coming out of him"... exactly. That's why we love him, and that's why we miss him.

[@porcelainfigures]

One of my favorite quotes from Jerry Cantrell, “Layne had such a beautiful way of saying the darkest things.”

[@davebennett5069]

2:52 "I think Layne was feeling kind of sick during this?" - Well, that's one way of saying "The man was almost literally dead, suffering horrible drug addiction and depression, and the physical struggles that come with it, along with missing half his teeth" When you consider WHO was singing this song alongside the content of the lyrics - you begin to understand them more.

[@collaboratenlisten]

Yeah I’m almost positive he was high when he recorded this. Literally shot up and went out on stage.

[@daisy671]

@@butchkline6680 What were they supposed to do? Chain him in the basement and feed him well balanced meals, giving him 2 hours of treadmill time everyday? You think nobody tried? In the end, you have to want to change in order to change.

[@mynamesmiked]

@@butchkline6680 He failed THEM.

[@thomasgoldsmith8934]

Couldn't have said it better myself spot on

[@algabriel8333]

Layne didn’t want to be saved. If memory serves me correctly he just got out of rehab in time to make this Unplugged show.

[@QuantumBeeWellness]

When Layne and Jerry sing together it gives me goosebumps

[@lisaowens7629]

Same here

[@mmmuck]

they play off each other perfectly

[@SunDedGon]

"I've eaten the sun so my tongue has been burned of the taste" Such a killer line

[@FoolyAndCooly]

You’re right

[@zachinthehat1707]

That’s what drugs do

[@marshallsweatherhiking1820]

Why I am scared of drugs. It takes all the meaning out of life to know that nothing will ever feel as good. It’s something that can’t ever be completely undone.

[@mrflufflesthecoconutcat3578]

@@marshallsweatherhiking1820 That is a very profound thing to say. I never looked at it that way. Thanks, eye opening!

[@hutdweller7430]

Jerry Cantrell wrote it

[@sarahg6886]

Everytime I hear Jerry sing it makes me smile knowing he had no confidence in his vocals. Layne pushed him to sing and always saw his talent. I think this is a major reason their harmonies were so unique. They were very in tune with each other.

[@devon5694]

hard to believe Jerry ever doubted himself. His closing lines on some of the harmonies are absolute perfection.

[@Linecookin]

His solo albums are so good too plz listen if you haven’t

[@fazr6103]

Agreed. I disagree with her, and am surprised she calls Jerry's vocals 'grunge' here. He certainly is on many songs... But generally, and especially on all these unplugged versions, he's the clear-voiced traditional counter to Layne. That's why they work so well, and are so unique; a sound that will never be truly replicated.

[@SteamingBurito]

After Layne sings "but my wings have been so denied" for the first time, the look Jerry gives the rest of the band is just this look of pride in someone he truly cared for. It's fantastic.

[@trentacosta7328]

that is a special moment indeed.

[@cynthiahutchinson459]

I think the band was terrified that Layne was going to blow it and so relieved when he didn’t. That’s what I think that exchange between Jerry and Mike was about.

[@9963212]

I saw it too

[@biel_osbourne]

yees, that was because they was thinking if Laney could sing on that night, because he was very very drugged. well, this is the story that i know.

[@kevinsnyder9047]

The story of this is as follows. Layne and mike was going through withdraws. Layne was a little worse. Mike made up a vile. A water based mixture. So Layne wouldn't get sick. So yes Layne was drugged up. But in a controlled way and for a reason. This was the first time in a looong time the band performed together On stage. They put a lot of time into lighting, choosing the music. And practices. This was the best unplugged performance. Alice in chain's set a precedence for this show on this night.

[@jasonjaeger4042]

Layne wasn't sick, he was dying. One of the most unique and beautiful voices. He's withdrawaling from speedballs (heroin and coke) but still put out a song that brings me to tears everytime I hear it. I was an addict, OD'D 4 times, somehow managed to still be here. But Layne had given up on life, he was lost after losing his gf/ex gf from sepsis (from shooting drugs) and eventually died from an OD himself. His story hits so close I listen to this song alot. I became a horrible addict after 3 bad MX crashes and losing a perfect girl. But I had 3 successful, amazing brothers and have been clean for 7yrs. Then 6 months ago I lost my younger brother to alcoholism. He had a twin brother, was incredibly smart, successful, talented, handsome, and I loved him and protected him and his twin with a vengeance growing up. I couldn't go see him before he passed because I have 3 kids and had to work. I never even thought death was possible. I know I could have helped him, I know addiction, but for some reason he wanted to die. The last text I have from him is "love ya too bro" and all that's left of him is around my neck. Fuck addiction. He should be here and I shouldn't.

[@chad3625]

Don’t say that, you should be here. You said yourself, you have three kids… dude they need their father. I’m so very sorry the loss of your brother, but you are so very loved brother. Your kids love you unconditionally. Bring the spirit of your brother to them and let them know the kind of man he was. Congratulations on your seven years of sobriety, that’s an achievement you should be very proud of.

[@lannybaxtermortgage]

You got this, Jason!

[@samlouvitakis8941]

i know you dont know me but, i am proud of your success man. I lost my brother to the stuff 4 years ago on new years eve. this is also a really close to home description of what was going on here in this performance. its real pain and it is felt by those who have been closely affected by it. keep up the great work man.

[@stevescuba1978]

No bro. You belong here or your addiction would have killed you. Instead, it gave you strength to persevere, and the stamina to boot. Chad is right, share your brother with your kids.

[@jasonjaeger4042]

@@chad3625 I appreciate the kind words man, and I'm truly sorry for your loss. I'm living and taking care of my kids, but when they're gone and I'm alone, well I don't have to describe it to you. Have a good holiday

[@corycherrier4743]

Love when Jerry smiles over at the other guys because he’s just so pumped Layne is killing it! They had some horrible shows before this and Jerry was super nervous it was gonna be more of the same, but Layne put on one of the most iconic performances of his career that night. And being so close to the end it was just incredible to watch and listen to!

[@amberrussek7422]

That smile made me tear up. He loved him so much and was still so amazed by his voice

[@kcossin]

Layne singing "Down in a hole and I don't know if I can be saved" ABSOLUTELY CRUSHES ME, TO THIS DAY... WTF

[@tetianadmytrenko6089]

Yeah...

[@XteoX21]

This song and the lyrics slices at my soul... I don't want to dive too deep, but I, too, was once as sick as Layne. I was just lucky that God let me come out the other side and has blessed me with strength enough to find 8 years clean and sober. His music is like a dagger to my soul, and his passing affected me in such a deep and profound way. I pray he is at peace.

[@AlexanderNagi]

Song was written by Jerry Cantrell and is about a tough breakup with a girlfriend. I love this band too, and I get how you can read into the lyrics, but this wasn't a song written by layne speaking on his addiction

[@Wicked666Jess]

Right

[@hutdweller7430]

Jerry Cantrell actually wrote the song

[@jrrigs8532]

“Friends don’t let friends get haircuts” was a joke at Metallica cutting their hair. The two bands got along well, it was just a friendly tease.

[@sweepist]

they were present for this weren't they ? Or at least one of em

[@NefariousPorpoise]

It actually says "friends don't let friends give friends haircuts".

[@Jan3k]

And I believe members of Metallica were sitting in first row at this concert.

[@thanos9846]

Waaaaay back when, I was at a Metallica show in San Diego, 94 I believe. AIC was to be a supporting act on the tour, but had to cancel due to Layne. Throughout the show, Hetfield was totally ragging on Staley and his heroin addiction. Just wicked savage. I'm a huge Metallica fan boy, but that $hit wasn't cool. Karma can be a bitch sometimes, as Het unfortunately now knows. YMMV.

[@Shagley]

Errr no JH took the piss out of both layne and kurt whilst on stage, mimicking them shooting up heroin and mocking them for it

[@HaleysTusk]

The 'glory days' of MTV, the unplugged shows at this time was a great reason to find out which of your friends had cable if you didn't have it at home already

[@twisted2291]

The whole MTV Unplugged thing is what sets Real artists apart from other bands. It is the proof that there was no studio, or backstage trickery going on.

[@MoBigfoot417]

I didn't appreciate the unplugged shows in my younger days unfortunately, but I definitely dig them now.

[@teroisoaho3878]

Yes, the times when there was music in Music Television!

[@pettyeddie2000]

HOLY SMOKES it’s Haley Reinhart !!! How cool is it that you watch and comment on this channel. And yes you’re correct. Those were the “glory days”. I was still a teenager when MTV started out and had cable so I got to see HEADBANGERS BALL, UNPLUGGED, Remote Control, MTV RAPS, all the good stuff. Things were a lot different and in some ways better back then. Oh well that’s life. With all that said I’m a huge fan of your music as well. All the way from American Idol to current. Everything from PMJ to the Mildred Snitzer band, Puddles Pity Party, Casey Abrams and the No Vacancy Orchestra. I don’t want to “fan out” too much but I really think you’re an amazing singer !! Ok I’m done. lol. Please stay safe and stay well.

[@HaleysTusk]

@@pettyeddie2000 Hi I’m just a long time fan, “Haley’s Tusk”, 9 years of live haley performance videos on my channel. Haley has her own channel ✌🏻

[@tonyl8280]

Jerry is one of the greatest composers of our generation

[@klamance]

Agreed.

[@Kwwwyjibo]

Layne literally was losing his teeth, fighting off heroin withdrawal and trying to not nod off and still pulled off this song . Not just a legend, an icon

[@Gossosgrocs]

Not only his teeth, he was wearing gloves because he was shooting heroin in his hands too. He must have had puffy hands or ulcers

[@johnphillipsjr7238]

🤦‍♂️

[@Gossosgrocs]

@@johnphillipsjr7238 i recently read that he had atrophy in his legs and that there were some rumors that Layne had lost an arm to gangrene

[@iPhilYa23]

he wasn't going through withdrawal, he was so high he had his eyes closed a lot during the performance. AIC was upset about some of the recording angles of the show bc it showed Layne smacked out.

[@LichaelMewis]

You don't withdrawal and nod at the same time. If you're nodding you are high.

[@hunterwarner393]

Layne wasn't sick in the sense of having a cold. Layne was dope sick.. Having the ability to perform, starting high af and holding it together as he comes down is just a testament to Laynes will power. It's a terrible cycle but the more addicted he became and the more pain he felt made his music so much more personal and emotional. Idc if its opiates, benzos or alcohol.. If you've ever been through it, you can relate to Layne. I just heard Elizabeth sing sopranos for the first time today and I was blown away, Expert level vocals on her end. Complete ignorance "not in a bad way, just different exposure" to the beautiful and twisted life of easily one of the greatest grunge artists ever.

[@jacencib]

You almost got it right. To not get dopesick Layne would just get as much of a dose to not feel sick at the start up until the end of that gig. So he is high when he gets "on stage" but since he was an addict he just felt "normal". Drugs didn't work for him anymore unless he would take way too much. So he did just as much to being able to sing and remember as much of the lyrics as possible. I guess 2-3 hrs later he would had been in full withdrawals. But as an addict you know when to redose and you especially know how much to take to appear kinda "normal".

[@apatheticallylethargic4639]

​@@jacencib nailed it.

[@hunterwarner393]

@@jacencib Yeah that's a fair point. Staying on that normal spectrum without a chance part way through to reup is hard to do. It's like a double edged sword. Can't completely focus and remember lyrics at the start, then feeling so shitty near the end that it's almost the same. And you're right about knowing that feeling if you've ever been an addict. I can say for eleven years, every day at some point I could 100% relate to his pain. RIP Layne

[@bela-sofia34]

@@hunterwarner393 Are you speaking of this theoretically? Or did he actually start super high and having problems remembering words? Have you been a heroin addict and performer? Why are you saying these things?

[@lunasol8306]

I will never forget about how Alice In Chains/Layne’s voice/Jerry’s writing was there for me during a very hard breakup while being a full time student in college. My issues are probably incomparable to what they went through (my vice is smoking weed) but this song has helped heal my soul while also touching and relating with it. This band is so legendary and I wish Layne was still here

[@opulentresplendence5103]

On this particular performance, Jerry had food poisoning and Layne showed up to the gig in very bad heroin withdrawls. He shot up just before coming onstage. As amazing as this song is I can't believe nobody recommended the song nutshell. Both songs are PERFECT representations of a broken man singing his soul, and maybe some of his demons out like only he can. Love your vids, but please do one on nutshell unplugged. I am a 36 year old man who is also a musician and every time I watch nutshell unplugged I am brought to tears. Absolutely beautiful!

[@JaimeSellaoH]

i totally agree and also can add "would?" in that track. i'll be waiting for "nutshell" or "would?" reaction-analysis :)

[@twohands2152]

Brother. Or sludge factory. I can't decide which is my favorite from this show. But they're pretty close.

[@MrMitchSH]

Absolute favorite AiC track

[@goose5462]

You beat me to the punch, I was also going to recommend "Nutshell".

[@eternal_sl4ughter]

@@twohands2152 this whole performance is just perfect......👏

[@crazycat58]

This song is my literal definition of what depression is like. You're stuck, don't know if you can be saved and you just want to be free but don't know how. Absolutely love this song for it.

[@James-m2y2d]

the song is about saving yourself , and be free of the ones who promote Jesus Christ , on one note they do not know how to read , especially there daily bread that is why his eyes are shut then at the end of the song for they did not listen, his eyes where sown sewn shut

[@danielgardner769]

Been there and used AIC to get into the feels.. not everyone feels the numbness that emptiness in your soul be glad you can't. If you have God bless you

[@burkhartlaw1]

I know when I’m in deep when this song makes me cry. It’s always an emotional song but when I’m in that hole it hits me even harder.

[@lindsayfraser1296]

Seeing Layne like this at the time was tragic and heartbreaking. A shell of his former self. Please watch Love, Hate, Love live at the Moore to see an incredible vocalist at the very top of his game. Here's to Layne ❤

[@tb303wpf1]

It really is gut wrenching to see the pain that he was in at that time. I remember when died like it was yesterday. Such a heartbreaking story.

[@symphonyinkart]

I know right And the fact the performance is what it is, is crazy when u think about it It’s one of the most popular among aic lover, and u plugged… Even with the stuff ups

[@Joeydemaio402]

Totally, here is only the spark of a former fire that it was his voice when he was healthy or the addition didn´t beat him yet

[@jgalc]

That is an amazing performance

[@guiaugusto9162]

A lot of people dont know that this day he was clean and feeling good to sing, but he almost didn't perfomed because of food poisoning from a hot dog he eat before the show lol

[@dougiebull2074]

Love when jerry smiles at his band mate when layne part comes he knows they are killing it and he is so happy with how great this is

[@fredrikengdahl4970]

Such a moment!

[@Short_Short_Reactions]

And they knew that if they didn’t do something the end was near.. it was over either way just there af

[@dougiebull2074]

@@Short_Short_Reactions and to think this almost didnt happen

[@matthewwelsch828]

My favorite part of the video has always been that smile.

[@janeenstiffler]

This is my favorite part of the video. Like it brings him so joy that they’re executing this performance so perfectly.

[@anavelazquez3761]

All you need is Love Hate Love live at the Moore now. In my opinion, his best performance and one of the best of all time!

[@lindsayfraser1296]

YES YES YES

[@brandonhaight8552]

Yes please

[@Redneckf350]

She’s already done it

[@icedviking4485]

@@Redneckf350 She hasn't? She did "Man in the Box".

[@dwpwdlgovasitsb4id13orlife2]

@@Redneckf350 I'm still looking for it. Do you have the link?

[@joesaulsiii2254]

I'm old, I watched this live, he was drugsick and still performed., God rest a tormented heart

[@rhondarattliff]

Same here . I saw it when it originally aired. Bless his heart, he was sick. But it really meant so much to both him and Jerry. So glad they had this moment. My heart still cries... 🥺🖤✨🦋☮️

[@MarsWolf81]

"Friends don't let friends get friends haircuts" Metallica was in the front row and it was right after they all cut their long hair off and released the load album. This was a message/joke to the members of Metallica in the front row.

[@jameshill2450]

Metallica cutting off their hair was, if not for real at least portrayed as the ultimate sell-out/betrayal of their fans in all of the rock music world at the time. Those haircuts caused an irreparable riff between people who just like the music and people who "take metal seriously." If you have short hair, you'll be too girly to play such manly music. But those same people loved Layne Staley exactly as he appeared in this video, even though they wouldn't have been able to explain the difference ...

[@terrymcdonald5057]

I read an interview with mike Starr and this is true. It was a joke towards the members of Metallica that were in attendance. Metallica provoked a lot of controversy amongst fans for cutting their hair short. The original saying was in a commercial ‘friends don’t let friends drink and drive’ because of the tragic consequences it has. Mike Inez thought he would mix it up a bit by changing it to friends don’t let friends get haircuts because of the tragic consequences it had on Metallica’s fan base, many fans believed they ‘sold out’.

[@LateCloser]

@@terrymcdonald5057 It had to do with their sound changing more than their appearance. People wanted them to stay as a heavy metal band that didn't seek/care about radio or tv air time. Their albums after the haircuts were different and honestly, not as good. You can call it a tragic coincidence that their appearance changed when their sound did. It also may be related to the many bouts of substance abuse and sobriety attempts the band hand. Alice in Chains never changed their sound. Metallica did, but interestingly came back to their original sound with the "Death Magnetic" album later. Although, the hair stayed short. Mostly. :)

[@tishamilligan8283]

Came to the comments just to explain that. I'll also add, at a previous concert Metallica played the intro of an AIC song as James Hetfield mocked Layne by pretending to shoot up in his arm over and over. The next GIG AIC played Mike had "Friends don't let friends get haircuts" written on his guitar knowing Metallica would be front row and center. 💇🚫😅🤟

[@terrymcdonald5057]

@@LateCloser so true, you hit the nail on the head better than my explanation. It was like Metallica was moulding themselves into something the fans didn’t want or like. I think their popularity had crashed and took some poor advice and made extreme changes in appearance and sound to regain popularity.

[@SilentGloves]

Layne was all but lost at this point, and that hurt in his voice was very real. I'm not ashamed to admit I wept the day he died. Alice in Chains basically got me through high school.

[@michaels7984]

I remember when he died, I was in my friends car and the radio said they had news about Alice in Chains after the break and I was thinking, great we are finally getting new music, then they came back and said he was dead and it was like a punch in the gut. Their music meant a lot to me as well.

[@AlottaDixonCider]

he's dead inside and high af this performance

[@mikelowder7082]

I was at a concert when the news broke ...all the bands did a tribute to him

[@terjehansen0101]

To me, only some elite bunch of people were listening to AIC. I wish i had been among them. But i am European so it wasn't really a lot of coverage. But it seems like they were some luxurious sort of grunge. Or more refined.

[@michaels7984]

@@terjehansen0101 they were truly unique and really something special.

[@thehammer4]

Layne, unfortunately, WAS sick. Heroin sick. In this recording, he's smacked out and at some point during this performance as Layne is flagging and needing his next fix, Cantrell has to settle him down to let him know his next fix is coming. Layne's pain in this performance is very real. It's a damned shame what that man endured and couldn't beat. It doesn't change how amazing he and Jerry sounded singing their trademark third apart. It also doesn't change how powerful Layne's singing was and how he baldly sang about his demons. Not necessarily on this song, but in general. The willingness to sing about his weaknesses made him great. He and Jerry were masters of nuanced two voice rock. Two completely underrated vocalists for two different reasons.

[@foust71]

Excellent comment. Nailed it.

[@acutting11]

Not to mention this was their first live performance in almost three years.

[@HeavyweightMind]

Very well said man.

[@terroirchronicles2065]

Rarely comment on YT, this is absolutely true and the perfect explanation to the entire performance. Read this, re-watch the entire concert, feel raw human emotion, repeat. This concert makes me feel alive.

[@tadmccalister2234]

Just One Fix

[@jonswenson]

Layne Staley was one of a kind. It wasn't a secret how much he was in the depths of his addiction at the time of this taping. This was a heartbreaking concert.

[@zimmy4868]

Say what you will, but in my opinion, the harmonies between Layne and Jerry was the true magic of Alice In Chains.

[@kellyfox-doctors7890]

100% agree

[@Herewearenowentertainus]

🎯 Absolutely.

[@pedroadonish]

But who would say otherwise?

[@bryanmcneil9872]

“Say what you want” as if anyone would disagree with that statement.

[@zimmy4868]

@@bryanmcneil9872 Lol, so you think everyone on the internet has the same opinions…. Uhhh ok

[@sbr1004]

My heart when Layne looks over at Jerry and just lets him sing 🥺🥺

[@freeheeler00]

Absolutely

[@JimmyTheSaintDailyVideos]

To high to join him sadly.

[@mizzmd11]

Still to this day makes me tear up when I hear it, because I remember the view at this moment.

[@mastod0n1]

@@JimmyTheSaintDailyVideos I don't think that's the case. Jerry has said that Layne thought he had a great voice and should be more confident in his singing. Layne was one of Jerry's biggest motivators in getting him to sing more. So I see it as Layne letting his friend shine.

[@dfbovey]

Love Hate Love, Live at the Moore. Layne in his most powerful prime.

[@TheAgentAssassin]

Agreed and here it is. AIC - Live at The Moore - Love Hate Love kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYfTZml_dtB3gKM

[@luxtobeyou]

This performance alone makes me wish I had been born earlier, just to see the Moore performance. The power he has when he's doing those high notes is insane!

[@mmmuck]

Alice and Nirvana's unplugged sets are classics

[@_KaiRos-11]

Fact

[@andrewjuby6339]

I'm sure someone will disagree with me but I would say pretty much every Unplugged is well worth listening to. Grunge as a whole really played around with depression, melancholy, and darkness, and going acoustic really lets those emotions come to the fore.

[@oscarh2744]

Don’t forget Pearl Jam

[@720jerrys]

The best description I’ve heard of this performance was “It’s like watching someone sing at there own funeral”

[@rosethomas5421]

That's pretty intense....

[@samportillo7635]

😥 RIP Lane

[@timphelan2873]

Pretty much.

[@sgraham12]

That’s a great description

[@jpf3687]

Literally

[@codystrandberg5556]

That wink that Jerry gives to Mike when Layne sings “Denied” is so heartwarming. It’s like he’s saying, “yeah, he’s still got it” GREAT reaction!!!

[@knekt6874]

"fuck we sound good, suckit metallica"

[@lannyordoyne7512]

Yea he gives Mike that " fuck yea he still got it" look 🤘

[@Deeraise]

timestamp?

[@mlpaulson4]

I've always thought that too!

[@arrecchartruese7206]

@@Deeraise in the original vid it's at the 2:17 mark. Sad, meaningful, and beautiful moment in rock history.

[@pjneslo8979]

Still 20 years later, I can’t watch this video without choking up. Layne Staley was so ahead of his time and he gifted us with his incredible vocals never caring much for his own happiness. It’s sad & I miss Layne immensely ..We all love & miss you Layne .

[@rockydubois1052]

Same.

[@Aic417]

Same here, I listen to them every day, but I feel grief over his death constantly. His voice had so much emotion, no one compares.

[@antonenb]

The spot where they're trading the lyric back and forth with the slight overlap, gets me teared up.

[@alu.304]

Layne was very conscious of his appearance, mainly he had lost his front teeth due to his addiction. He avoided opening his mouth in order to conceal the tooth loss. It didn't effect his singing as much as it created a noticable lisp. It was evident on his final recording of his life, a project that did Another Brick in the Wall. The production had to filter the lisp out. Sad that such a talented, loved, and influential artist couldn't beat his addiction. Rest easy, Layne. We miss you.

[@richardoreilly4762]

this also explains the long sleeves

[@elliotserrano7333]

So sad. Money for heroin but none for a dentist.

[@Frostrazor]

i think the word you wanted was conscientious. And yes he was absolutely. He was so far gone, and it hurts to watch it.

[@alu.304]

@@Frostrazor conscious = aware. As in he was very aware of his degraded appearance due to his addiction.

[@youtubeuser206]

@@elliotserrano7333 no shit the guy could have easily afforded dentures

[@sterlinsmith1651]

Can we all agree that the acoustic bass in this song, and the others during the MTV unplugged gig, is simply flawless!

[@patruckbass7713]

It’s so strong in Nutshell

[@eternal_sl4ughter]

the would intro is just a damn eargasm

[@deweytucker5413]

Without a doubt

[@jakeberry7286]

Some of the best goddamn bass I've ever heard. Mike Starr is such an underrated bassist

[@fokeyjo]

Yeah, must be because it was played with a pick, Davie504 :D

[@jamesm5883]

Let's not forget how beautiful Jerry's voice is, a very talented singer on his own.

[@TheErazar]

He has great solo albums, if someone doesn't know! The newest one has just been released

[@puppetmaster8551]

Not to mention he’s one of the best songwriters ever, Cantrell is a true legend and a musical genius. His songwriting and vocals mixed with Layne’s insane voice was just something truly special that will probably never be seen again.

[@mattlevering9210]

I come back to this song so often. You can just hear everything in Lane's voice. All of things he has been through. You can hear that his soul is shredded. That is a deadman waiting for the casket to close.

[@leesamson8541]

“Rooster” is thee song that got me listening to Alice In Chains. It is a Jerry Cantrell song written for his dad who served during the war. I believe Vietnam or korean. His nickname during his time of service was “Rooster”. Very moving and disturbing about that time in American History. What a way to honor our fathers and servicemen.

[@chriso6719]

Vietnam. And Rooster was his nickname from childhood.

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

Yes it was Viet Nam, and Rooster was both Jerry's dad's nickname from childhood, but also a term for seasoned soldiers who'd survived more than a few months in the war, the guys you'd look to for experience and knew when to be ferocious in the fight.

[@raymondking214]

@@DJTheMetalheadMercenary And here is an interesting note: Rooster is ALSO an astrological symbol in Chinese Astrology. I know, it is my sign (1969....Metal Rooster.).

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

@@raymondking214 Learn something new every day haha ;)

[@HaleysTusk]

Burying the lead that Hall of Famer Ann Wilson providing vocals at the beginning adds that extra Northwest vibe to the song ;)

[@Oracle428]

"Don't Follow"... I think that song really shows off Layne and Jerry's harmonies well... and its so beautiful.

[@julior7897]

Don't Follow is a underrated masterpiece!! Good recommendation

[@BehindStarWars]

No Excuses

[@JoeyBKC]

Don't Follow is my favorite AIC song such an underrated song which did not get much air play on the radio.

[@maxwellcatlett3653]

Don’t Follownis underrated AND Brother really shows off how well they could harmonize. Both true statements

[@joecorzine8057]

You got that right! The harmonies of these to are legendary! How I miss Layne and Jerry together huge lose for us fans!

[@BearIslandComics]

Why am I in tears yet again watching this performance?…I’ve seen it 700 times and it’s no less gut-wrenching

[@icsc87]

youre not alone...i always cry whenever I watch Layne

[@trentacosta7328]

same here...same here.

[@Luckimee]

I cried too. It's gut wrenching

[@TheMysticbeat]

Amen brother.

[@PsychoLuke]

Right there with you. Tears me up every time. It is completely timeless

[@hardtymz2517]

"He looks like he wasn't feelin his best this day?" Layne was damn near dead inside at this point. he was dying. you will never hear another song that conveys this pain in such an amazing voice. Jerry (to the right) had food poising (notice the sweat). not in their prime but better than 99% of singers in their prime. rip layne and thank you.

[@Littlewing1977]

Maybe one day people will talk you into Love Hate Love by Alice in Chains. Live from the Moore Theatre 1990. Also Layne's work in the band Mad Season is really awesome.

[@stumeat77]

Another +1 for Love Hate Love in the Moore, that whole concert is amazing

[@Littlewing1977]

@@stumeat77 Indeed.

[@Ontariosound]

Listen to Fire In The Sky by Ozzy, starting at 4:44 if you love Love Hate Love.......

[@colinduffett5094]

Mad Season doing Lennon’s I Don’t Wanna Be A Soldier is mesmerizing.

[@stevilkenevil9960]

You don't think bleed the freak is better from that show lhl is such a downer song

[@nickg666]

Mike Inez (the most musically trained member of the band) once said something to the effect of "Layne's lack of musical training was his strength" They would tell him that a certain harmony doesn't work and his reply was, "Trust me". His writing and singing abilities were completely natural. His lack of knowledge allowed him to color outside the lines in a way most trained musicians wouldn't be able to.

[@phillipmccutcheon4937]

What a great comment! That really makes me see AIC In a different light despite being a fan of every song since man in the box came to be.

[@VivaLaDnDLogs]

There was lots of natural talent, definitely, but he was trained, too. Layne had great technique, part of what allowed him to sing so effortlessly even at this state of his health.

[@jeffwallace8582]

@@VivaLaDnDLogs Actually, a lot of that is the heroin. And one of the reasons we lost so many of the singers of this era to it, ultimately, is that it relaxes the vocal cords in such a way to give greater flexibility and sustainability of tones. Blind Melon, AIC, Nirvana, you can hear a certain "fluid roughness" or distortion in/underneath their voices that is characteristic of heroin use.

[@VivaLaDnDLogs]

@@jeffwallace8582 Layne didn't start on heroin until....(let me check my book) 1991. He received vocal training from Maestro David Kyle (who also taught Ann Wilson). It does appear he mostly learned proper breathing technique and the rest was natural talent. So Facelift and earlier was without heroin.

[@gazzarafalemozzy4766]

If layne heard all the breakdown of hos performance hed probably just say i dont know i just sing how it comes out

[@cpt.charisma]

Friends don't let Friends give Friends haircuts. Mike the bassist wrote that on his bass because Metallica was sitting in the front row and it was the first time they saw them after they cut their long hair.

[@michaelwhite8119]

I’ve seen many refer to the Metallica backstory but another piece of trivia is that it is based off the promotion campaign “Friends Don’t Let Friends Drink and Drive” most of Generation X grew up with this much in the vein of “This is Your Brain….”

[@clamrollvideos]

Friends dont let friends get "Friends" haircuts. A dig on their haircuts making them look like less like metal musicians and more like the cast of the TV show Friends.

[@hunterwarner393]

It's impossible to completely rag on Metallica because they were a huge part of the era. But after seeing them mock Layne and make a joke out of addiction I personally wouldn't piss on any of them if they were on fire. Every line of every song ends in ugh, oh, arhh, or ahh. Very generic after the first few albums in my opinion. They feel like a shittier washed up version of KISS nowadays.

[@TheStepmonkey]

@@hunterwarner393 Metallica sucks. All of the band were assholes for making fun of Layne when he was at his worst.

[@draculasdaughter36]

@@hunterwarner393 all that AND they killed Napster. 👎👎

[@djquag84]

Layne wasn't just feeling sick. He was withdrawing from drugs, because he wanted to perform well. He ended up passing out in the middle of the set, medics were called in, he got up and completed it. Pretty impressive.

[@squigmo1]

In an interview Layne's mother described his voice as razor blades wrapped in marshmallows. How accurate! Layne and Jerry have one of the best vocal combinations ever. I'm 56 and I still listen to a variety of grunge every day, mostly because there were so many talented artists in that genre trying to speak from their hearts and not pandering to the record moguls. RIP Layne, Chris, Kurt, Andy and all of the talented souls gone too soon!

[@hollyhayes9640]

You might like Killswitch Engage, Pantera, Incubus, Jinjer, and Emilie Autumn if you like Alice in Chains. They're all TECHNICALLY metal, but they can all sing too. Incubus is more rock than metal, but you still might like them.

[@stinkypeanutgaming5576]

Sevendust and Meat Puppets are two bands that I think you would enjoy. I would really enjoy watching your reaction to Angel's Son. As a matter of fact, I would like to see your reaction to "Why?" by Meat puppets also. Also would like to see your reaction to any Mike Patton, preferably with Faith no more, but any of his projects would suffice. Ok, I'm done. I could keep going for days. "Sour Girl" by stone temple pilots is another good one lol.

[@nelaina]

Layne Staley had an amazing, effortless, and raw expression that was drawn from a deep pit of emotion, sorrow and despair within his soul. It can't be faked or replicated, and needs no physical exertion. If you watch from the beginning of the whole gig, he literally walks casually on stage while band is playing, sits down in perfect time, and starts belting out Nutshell. This was probably the best unplugged ever.

[@skarlottt]

He hardly has to try, and he nail's it

[@Lithium_82]

I'm a hardcore Nirvana fan and I would want to fight you over the unplugged performance comment but Layne and Jerry are absolutely magical.

[@michaelanderson8090]

It was hands down the best Unplugged ever

[@FedericoVellere]

Loved it, but sorry to say the best unplugged ever was Queensrÿche, hands down

[@MRSludgedude]

@@FedericoVellere he'll no.

[@braydondale654]

Love Hate Love, Live at the Moore. A song live that sounds better then the recording. IMO his best performance.

[@kship7523]

one of my all time favorite live performances of any band! I actually prefer this version to the recorded version!

[@Ninjametal]

I vote for the live "Junkhead" I recently saw a video of, but that "Love, Hate, Love" you speak of is stellar also.

[@kship7523]

@@Ninjametal that is a great one too!! I really don't think there is any song that Layne Staley performed that wasn't amazing, even in his worst times

[@Seannone-ya-vc7pl]

I ALWAYS said how amazing Layne is where he is barely even moving his mouth yet the absolutely phenomenal, powerful voice coming out of him is enough to give chills and the feels like nothing else❤🙏❤🙏

[@docvader82]

Layne's health/addiction by this point was horrible, so that's what you're seeing here. On the one hand, i wish this was done in his prime, before he started losing that battle. On the other hand, I feel his human struggle gives this a unique feel/urgency all its' own.

[@buffs4life]

This is it in a nutshell, no pun intended.

[@67_PowerStroke]

@@buffs4life Nutshell.... amazing performance during this unplugged session.

[@jazzandfriends1]

maybe unpopular opinion here, but even in his prime he wouldn't have been able to top this. this one came from the pit of his soul

[@jasperdawson9479]

Sludge factory says it all

[@rsohlich1]

It's a crazy paradox, that's for sure.

[@robertcifrulak5387]

He was "sick," yes very . . . Amazing how he can be so high he can't keep his eyes open, yet his voice comes through with so much emotion and strength. One of the best "grunge" performances ever.

[@joefriedman9843]

It's unbelievable how good he sounds here

[@shanewoody4232]

Grunge and mental illness goes hand to hand

[@Krendall2]

His eyes aren't closed, he's looking downward to read. He had almost no time to rehearse this show, so he has the song lyrics printed in front of him.

[@seanwelch2603]

Can def tell this in nutshell (same unplugged), high af, but dead on cue. His body was dying but Spirit was aching but strong thru his voice

[@dakota6054]

I don't know if it's just a fluke, and I hate to say I know what it feels like, but singing while dopesick was more effortless for some reason? I never needed warming up, elongated notes easier to carry without a trill, and I could follow runs that I can't do sober. 0/10 though not worth it.

[@tarajoyce3598]

Notice how Jerry has Layne's back but only if needed. How Layne was able to do this performance was a testament of pure love and spirit. Chokes me up more every time. This is such an example of true friendship.

[@guckfoogle2779]

And you can also see Jerry look back to give Sean and Mike a reassuring smile when Layne nails that first riff of the chorus. They were not sure if Layne would be able to perform well (plus he hadn’t practiced much at all with them). Once Layne hit that riff they knew he still had it in him. So much going on I watch this performance over and over again. It’s tragic.

[@planetcaravan2925]

Layne is high as a kite

[@tarajoyce3598]

@@planetcaravan2925 No. Only high enough to make the show. It's well documented if you care to bother with actual information.

[@planetcaravan2925]

@@tarajoyce3598 crybaby

[@tarajoyce3598]

@@planetcaravan2925 gotta hanky?

[@tithannisk7470]

"I've eaten the sun/ So my tongue has been burned of the taste" probably one of my favorite lines ever. It's so evocative and maybe the most accurate description of what addiction to drugs is.

[@whknws9595]

so many of their lyrics provoke so many thoughts. love alice in chains

[@ysph]

ooh but what about, "i want to taste dirty, that stinging pistol in my mouth on my tongue IIIII WANT YOU TO SCRAPE ME FROM THE WALLLLLLLLLS and go crazy like you've made me"

[@Janster72]

As others have pointed out Layne was a very ill man from his addiction at this stage, but the sickness story actually relates to Jerry. He had a stomach bug just before they recorded this and was throwing up continually. If you look at the unplugged video you can occasionally see an oblong like trough/bucket by him and this was put there incase he needed to hurl... but he managed to go the whole performance without doing so. It is a legendary performance all round and a credit to Layne that, even though he was so physically damaged, he could still turn it on and produce that amazing voice. I'm glad there's still so much love for him in the world today 20 years after his passing.

[@PolygonGTC]

What gets me about the entire unplugged performance is that Layne was in REALLY bad shape. I wasn't aware at the time when the performance originally aired, but knowing that makes it hit in a different way, and it makes me all the more impressed with Layne. To be in the condition he was in, but still able to sing that well. I fully suggest checking out every single track from the unplugged performance. They're all incredible.

[@kellygrubbs915]

Haunting song. I still tear up every time I hear any of their songs as I also do when I hear Chris Cornell. May they both rest peacefully 💔🙏🏻

[@DissAeon]

I love Jerry in this song, the way he always looks to Layne to make sure that he's good. The proud, joyful expression when Layne nails the chorus ending. Jerry loved layne a lot...

[@fuerve]

"I have been guilty of kicking myself in the teeth." That must have been a hell of a line for him to deliver.

[@Shade_Tree_Mechanic]

Yeah.

[@kachoww5981]

Why?

[@fuerve]

@@kachoww5981 He'd lost his teeth by then, as well.

[@mercuryrising2887]

​@@fuerveHe still had his teeth, this was just the start of him losing his teeth. That's why he developed a lisp.

[@alabaster193]

@@mercuryrising2887 Yes. He still had teeth but if you listen carefully, you can already hear a change in how he pronounced words because they were starting to decay. So damned tragic.

[@danlightner8531]

I have never seen “the Charismatic Voice “ before. I am a great fan of Alice In Chains so that’s why I watched this. I seriously got emotional listening to your analysis of Layne’s voice and the lyrics and the harmonies. Layne was sick and he also had a problem with his teeth at the time of this recording, you can hear it on the “S” sounds. I really enjoyed this and I’ll be viewing some of your other videos, thank you. Layne was, I believe, the greatest voice of this era taken from us far too soon. Heroin sucks!

[@kiljett4994]

I've actually noticed that he records a lot of his music with the teeth thing going on, is this something he dealt with his whole life?

[@luxtobeyou]

@@kiljett4994 It was only really a "problem" in the later years of his career, problem in quotes because obviously he didn't need teeth to sing like a powerhouse. Can't really speculate accurately as he was pretty insecure about his teeth and rarely opened his mouth enough for people to see them, but in this MTV unplugged he had lost enough for it to be noticeable in his enunciation but not enough for it to be like a disability, if you get what I mean.

[@ashhole948]

​@@kiljett4994 People just love to read into things too much with Layne Staley. The "s" sound from unplugged really isn't that different than on the other records or live performances, but people claim to hear it because that's what they're looking for. He hadn't lost that many teeth during Unplugged. If you watch his performances later that year (on the KISS tour, Late Show, Saturday night special) you can literally see he has teeth.

[@DairyAir]

She got me a while back with her breakdown of Tool “sober”. I just searched “tool” and she was the second reviewer I watched, but she became my favorite when she interviewed Devin Townsend. To see an artist get some excited talking about their craft in an interview…

[@Kimaracustoms]

Alice in chains was truly one of the greatest bands of their time, It's sad but his addiction led to some of the most impactful music ever and hits hard for anyone who has ever felt Layne's pain and sickness.

[@rogerbarker2231]

This entire concert was AMAZING!! Jerry had food poisoning and Layne was very deep into his heroin and cocaine addiction here. He lost the majority of his teeth by this point and was pretty high during this performance, but in my opinion, this was A.I.C. best Performance.

[@One_Proud_Papa]

The best example, IMO, of their otherworldly harmonies is I Stay Away. Incredible.

[@TheArchangel911]

The entire Jar of Flies album is Symphonic Heaven

[@aaronclift]

I’d add “Head Creeps” to that list if you want the heavier version of the otherworldly AIC harmonies.

[@OscarOffTheCuff]

Or no excuses

[@donny841]

@TheArchangel911 I remember reading a KZbin comment before on a reaction vid for I stay away and the guys listening just didn't like it at all.. and someone said you really need to listen to rotten apple to fully understand the rest of the album as it was like a codex for whats about to come! I quite liked that. Sorry bit off topic

[@chrisg1772]

@@aaronclift awesome track

[@JacieNicholson]

One of my absolute favorite moments in this performance is Jerry winking and nodding to the rest of the band after Layne nails that last note in the first chorus. Despite not playing for two and a half years, despite Layne being a shell of himself, really, despite his voice being a shell of itself, he knew he wasn’t gonna have to worry about Layne that night.

[@allenjohnson4216]

Excellent observation 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏼

[@polite_as_fuck]

Yep, Jerry’s face in that moment says it all. It’s as if he’s witnessing Michelangelo paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in real-time.

[@JacieNicholson]

@@polite_as_fuck While being worried he couldn’t even paint anymore

[@sigilfredogaleano6568]

I think they should had taking him to the doctor instead making him perform. Nice friends he had around him. Money before his health.😔

[@Punkypoetico]

If I were to describe the story between their singing, I'd say it represents a deep conversation between two parts of the same soul. It's like they're exploring the depths of emotion and experience. When they sing together, it's a moment of solidarity and shared pain, almost as if they're holding each other up. when they sing different lines, it's like they're expressing their own struggles and perspectives, but still within the context of a shared experience.The song itself speaks to feelings of being lost or trapped, and their vocal interplay magnifies that sense of searching for a way out or understanding. It's like a beautiful dance between hope and despair, with each voice shining light on different shades of the song's emotional spectrum. It's storytelling at its finest, using harmony and dissonance to paint a picture of vulnerability.

[@majinvejitaxv]

Layne, in comparison to a lot of his contemporaries, had extensive vocal training. It's why even here, with his addiction fully having taken hold (you'll notice his sleeves are pulled down over his hands), he's able to give a heartbreakingly beautiful performance. To this day, nearly 30 years later, this remains one of my favorite live performances of all time and I revisit it frequently.

[@gr8lampini]

I guarantee you he got off sick before this and every performance. You don't get dope sick in 2 hours. I know this for a fact.

[@guckfoogle2779]

no, you don’t.

[@gr8lampini]

@@guckfoogle2779 talking about the last sentence and yes, I do dumbass

[@_swagmeister]

​@@gr8lampini Why does everyone think Layne's sick in this video. He doesn't look or seem sick.

[@Johnytomm]

@@_swagmeister he absolutely does

[@daveutrata7797]

Layne carried all of our pain for years. I think he helped save a lot of us back then. Even if he couldn't save himself. Rest in power, brother ✊

[@ericstroh9866]

Out of all the musicians lost over the years this one still hurts

[@TheStepmonkey]

@@ericstroh9866 IKR

[@brianmazur6818]

💌

[@rf3foto]

The two of their voices together made the most perfect hauntingly beautiful emotional way of telling stories. There is no one like this band!

[@lucasklock5494]

AiC is just perfect.... you cant get much better than Layne and Jerry together

[@luigivampa5362]

I love how at 9:21 Jerry looks back at the rest of the guys with nodding approval and pride in Layne for nailing that. They weren’t sure at all what they were going to get, but Layne was masterful and haunting. Jerry Cantrell is one of the great guys of rock and roll and should be in the HOF with AIC and on his own. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise....it was the first 10s of Man in the Box that ushered in grunge.

[@puppetmaster8551]

That smile and nod is legendary. Also Jerry is one of the best to ever do it, a true godly musician.

[@kingly_kgaming8606]

That they aren't in the HOF is a joke but the RnR HOF is a joke entirely, but that's a different story.

[@MrHarbltron]

There's a sort of sick irony that something as beautiful as "Down in a Hole" could never exist without a talent like Layne having to be in that very hole. The connection between genius and suffering isn't anything new but that really only serves to illustrate how deep that connection is.

[@amandadee412]

I don’t think Layne had any idea how incredible his voice was. One of the greatest vocalists of all time. He is so missed❤️

[@KnightDriveTV]

Layne had very little voice training, as I recall. It was said he was basically 95% raw talent. I believe his breathing was improved with coaching, but he essentially was pitch perfect out of the box.

[@ryanlassonde1840]

Layne actually had very extensive vocal training, which, combined with his immense talent level and his ability to channel his inner emotions into his voice, gave him the ability to hit and sustain notes that still to this day cannot be matched by anyone. RIP to one of the best singers to ever do it in any genre.

[@devinroberts9157]

Layne was high on heroin during this recording. It was ultimately what took his life in 2002, layne Staley was without a doubt the best vocalist of all time in my opinion, his gravely yet clear high and low notes have made him an absolute legend. He never had to reach for notes, jerry Cantrell as backing and leads in the band was also absolutely amazing, even today, jerry is so talented as a singer and guitar player, back before auto tune, when you had to be an actual musician. Jerry doesn’t get enough credit for his writing creativity and vocals that helped lead Alice to the top of the charts for many many years. Layne, he was so naturally talented and so many have tried to replicate yet have fallen so short. I’m glad I was born in a time to have spent my whole life enjoying their music. Alice In Chains belongs in the rock and roll hall of fame… what a talented band…

[@mozdaboz]

Actually, he got sober weeks before this performance...

[@WonderWhile]

@@mozdaboz yeah he was suffering from heavy withdrawal. Dont think he was high at all

[@mozdaboz]

@@WonderWhile Yes they required him to be sober and it seems he's been wanting to be in an unplugged gig that he complied for it. Jerry is the one sick in this gig he's throwing up all night because of food poisoning...

[@AnxiouslyGaming]

He was actually withdrawaling which SPEAKS VOLUMES.. I couldn't even get out of bed when I went through withdrawals.. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy! The fact he got on stage and gave it all he had just blows my mind.

[@mikesale6474]

ABSOFUCKINGLUTELY! Couldn't have said it better myself. You nailed it. Just entering high school when Facelift hit, I was hooked. Nutshell is my favorite.

[@jwilliby7]

I respect that jerry has recreated and reimagined the sound quite well, but the combination of these two were pure magic, and a once in a lifetime combination. They are truly the some of the greatest of all time.

[@revolvstudios2195]

Junkhead is definitely a gem that too frequently falls off the radar.

[@neighbourhoodmusician]

I think he chose the next lead singer to just fill out a sound rather than to compete in terms of uniqueness or charisma.

[@adamscottv]

Decades later, and hearing Layne sing this still gives me goose bumps

[@dirkvannieuwenhove]

The chemistry between Layne and Jerry on stage is something I haven’t seen afterwards again in another band

[@Aaliyah_Cantrell]

Layne is often said to be a great singer but nobody ever comments on how strong he was. When you have a vicious addiction like he had.. it's incredibly difficult to function at this level, performing with thousands of people watching you working about your performance. I love him, he was so strong ♥️

[@88Nikoli]

He was indeed battling , don't know how he faced anybody whilst he was sick , I certainly can't function at all when I'm hanging out !

[@Aaliyah_Cantrell]

@@88Nikoli I agree! 💛

[@Aaliyah_Cantrell]

@Poly Bun you can't understand it with your mind...

[@eternal_sl4ughter]

@Poly Bun small brain energy

[@kevincoady5248]

@UCoqOWg53u5rMNzLapTdA8kA U r a fool, seriously. Opiates have a tremendous affect on your body and brain, changes your brain chemistry. Clearly a weakness caused him to become addicted but to suggest he couldn’t be strong is ridiculous.

[@zanderbyers9071]

Down in a whole is the most touching song I have ever heard in my life it sounds so from the heart and everytime i hear it I feel tears running down my cheeks this song grabs my soul to the core something is so dark about this song its almost haunting but yet beautiful Alice and chains gets deep chills down my spine with this I'm addicted to this song it won't let me thanku

[@joneadam12]

“Friends don’t let friends get haircuts” They were poking fun at all the guys from Metallica for cutting their hair short.

[@Jason-mz8xw]

and Metallica was in the audience

[@keywerk]

Also why Sean Kinney breaks out into the drum beat for Enter Sandman at one point during the concert. What I did not realize at the time is this was largely a response to Metallica making light of AIC Man in the Box at one of Metallica’s shows when AIC had to drop off the tour. Some mutual friendly or not so friendly ribbing.

[@jessithanks8082]

Actually I'm pretty sure it says, "Friends don't let friends get Friends haircuts", as in the TV show "Friends". A lot of people were imitating the haircuts from the show at the time, lol. Looks like they were using the comparison to the show's characters to try to humiliate Metallica for their new haircuts. Clever 😏

[@jeremykeller9909]

@@jessithanks8082 but it was 100% aimed at Metallica, who were in the crowd and had recently “sold out” and cut their hair short.

[@andreborges2106]

This. It was aimed at Metallica and their "corporate" new look at the time, when they released LOAD, about a month before this Unplugged show.

[@bearstokesful]

The relationship between Jerry's and Lane's voices are symbolic of the relationship of Jerry and the person this song is about. There are moments where they're in perfect harmony and there are times where they seem to be opposite of each other, not unlike the relationship Jerry is singing about here. It's a very beautiful composition and so relevant once you pick it apart.

[@scottmitchell2757]

It's so nice to hear some describe the complexity I hear. This whole album is a clinic. I would like to see your reaction to all of it. Got me wrong .. and Frogs especially. No excuses is great and rooster. Wild harmony and the most amazing unique voice and approach from Layne.

[@jujubean9063]

The the lyric “I’d like to fly” (to get out of the hole), he uses the notes to glide down back to “the hole”. He wasn’t able to fly. It’s a brilliant way to vocally describe the broken wings.

[@m3psy]

“Friends don’t let friends get Friends haircuts” there is totally a backstory! Metallica and AIC were good friends at the time. And metallica was in the crowd at the unplugged show. They had all recently cut all their long hair and they all looked like Joey and Ross from friends. So Mike messed with them and wrote that on his bass!

[@johnf5068]

Lost some respect for Metallica when they made fun of layne live when AIC couldn’t go on tour with them.

[@m3psy]

@@johnf5068 I watched that whole video. And to be honest. I didn’t feel they were making fun. Friends talk shit and I’d imagine they would as friends as well. Also the whole lot of them had issues with drugs and alcohol so I feel it was just mutual shit talk amongst bands/friends but that’s just my opinion

[@Uffareel]

@@johnf5068 fuck Metalliqueer lost respect wayyyy before that

[@HeyMykee]

That's awesome! I thought it referred to Layne cutting off the dreads.

[@mirko6506]

Metallica and AiC were Good Friends? 😱 Uhmm

[@fernando1227]

I once read that Jerry's voice was like the voice of the mind, of the person itself and layne's voice was the voice of the soul...man, right here you can see that. I love it.

[@kingly_kgaming8606]

What a great analysis. I really like that!

[@Polygonal_Sprite]

11:11 Jerry winking while thinking “he’s here, he’s not 100% but this fucker is still one of the greatest singers in the history of rock”. RIP Layne x

[@cameron818]

I struggled with Heroin addiction for many years. This group helped save my Life. I have never emotionally connected to lyrics like this. Thank You AIC.

[@Ичкерия90х]

Cameron, stay well and be healthy, my friend. I know life is not easy, but you can do it

[@robertwright957]

proud of you. stay with us as long as possible, here on this earth

[@kevsim70]

The entire album this is from, "Dirt," was one of the darkest albums ever recorded. (Indeed, the title track is one of the darkest songs I've *ever* heard) The entire thing, end to end, was emotional pain, alienation, and hurt turned into music. It happened to come out at a time in my life where it rang as incredibly relevant and speaking to me personally, so I just about wore out the CD listening to it over and over again. This is one of my top favorites from the album. I think my favorite line is "I've eaten the sun / my tongue has been burned of the taste". That always came across to me as someone that's depressed, looking back to a time when they were really happy, but it has since turned bad and made what they're going through now worse.

[@kainslance]

I understand your feelings with this album. When I first "heard down in a hole" I wasn't in the best of places. This album really helped me cope and deal with what was going on. To this day I love this album but it's so personal and hard to listen to. I'm happy for you that you got through what was going on in your life.

[@AndyViant]

Yet was one of my three best albums in the 90's.... in front of Nirvana's Nevermind.

[@BarekHalfhand]

It is an absolute masterpiece and completely underrated... Kind of like the album "Rocks" from Aerosmith.

[@eresh233]

Same. While attending college in the PNW, I traded a CD to another girl in exchange for Dirt, having never heard more than a couple radio plays of AiC. Life changing. I listened to it constantly while my mother lost a very long and agonizing battle with cancer and then for years after. It remains my top album in part because of so much it meant to me.

[@tms02]

Dirt is the best track on the album. Its so dark and beautiful at the same time. The guitar riffs are incredible. The guitar tone was perfect. The harmony is haunting with yhose lyrics. I would love a breakdown from her on Dirt for sure.

[@mattbenson2034]

“Friends don’t let friends get haircuts” was a message to Metallica, who was at that concert and had all just chopped their hair off

[@newlenmedia]

What's funny/ironic is Layne Staley also had short hair. :)

[@lowhangingvegetable]

"friends don't let friends get friends haircuts" 😄

[@Shagley]

Friends don’t mock other peoples drug problems! Especially not whilst onstage performing! Fuck JH and metallica

[@jtclarks]

I remember hearing about this but I had to look it up

[@mattbenson2034]

@@Shagley I’ve hated Metallica ever since the Napster stuff.

[@danglesnipecelly13]

This is one of the greatest song ever I swear! The vocals are chilling especially in the Unplugged version.