Complete List Of Alice In Chains Band Members

Feature Photo: TDC Photography / Shutterstock.com

Alice In Chains is an American rock band formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1987. The band is known for its distinctive style, which blends elements of heavy metal and grunge. Throughout its career, Alice In Chains has released several albums, many of which have achieved significant commercial success and critical acclaim. The band’s lineup has undergone changes over the years, with members joining, departing, and, in some cases, rejoining. Despite these changes and challenges, including a hiatus, Alice In Chains has continued to be a prominent force in the rock music scene, with their albums often charting highly and receiving various awards and nominations.
Layne Staley
Layne Staley, the original lead vocalist, joined Alice In Chains at its inception in 1987. His distinct vocal style and songwriting were pivotal in shaping the band’s sound. Staley recorded with the band on their critically acclaimed albums, including “Facelift” (1990), “Dirt” (1992), the acoustic EP “Jar of Flies” (1994), and the self-titled album “Alice In Chains” (1995). His contributions extended beyond vocals to songwriting, contributing to some of the band’s most iconic tracks. Outside Alice In Chains, Staley collaborated with other musicians, forming the supergroup Mad Season in 1994, which released the album “Above.” Staley’s tenure with the band ended with his tragic passing in 2002.
Jerry Cantrell
Jerry Cantrell, the band’s guitarist and co-vocalist, has been a consistent member since the band’s formation. Cantrell’s guitar work and songwriting are integral to the band’s sound. He played on all Alice In Chains albums, contributing significantly to each. His solo career includes albums like “Boggy Depot” (1998) and “Degradation Trip” (2002). Cantrell’s ability to blend heavy riffs with melodic harmonies has earned him widespread acclaim both within and outside the band.
Sean Kinney
Drummer Sean Kinney is another founding member who has been with Alice In Chains since 1987. Kinney’s drumming is known for its power and precision, contributing greatly to the band’s heavy yet dynamic sound. He played on all the band’s albums and is noted for his creative input in the band’s music and visual aspects. Kinney’s influence extends beyond drumming; he has been involved in the band’s album artwork and stage designs.
Mike Starr
Bassist Mike Starr was with Alice In Chains from the band’s inception until 1993. Starr’s bass playing featured on the band’s early releases, including “Facelift” and “Dirt.” His playing style was a key element in the band’s early sound. Starr left the band in 1993 and later appeared on various TV shows, including “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.” His career after Alice In Chains was marked by personal struggles, and he passed away in 2011.
Mike Inez
Mike Inez joined Alice In Chains as a bassist in 1993, replacing Mike Starr. Inez’s debut with the band was on the EP “Jar of Flies” in 1994. He has been with the band since, contributing to subsequent albums like “Alice In Chains” (1995), “Black Gives Way to Blue” (2009), and others. Inez is known for his solid playing and has also played with other notable artists, including Ozzy Osbourne and Slash’s Snakepit.
William DuVall
William DuVall joined Alice In Chains as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist in 2006, marking a new era for the band. His debut album with the band was “Black Gives Way to Blue” (2009), followed by “The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here” (2013) and “Rainier Fog” (2018). DuVall’s entry helped rejuvenate the band, and his voice has blended well with Cantrell’s, creating a new but respectful continuation of the band’s legacy. In addition to his work with Alice In Chains, DuVall has been involved in other musical projects, including Comes with the Fall and Giraffe Tongue Orchestra.

Classicrockhistory.com claims ownership of all its original content and Intellectual property under United States Copyright laws and those of all other foreign countries. No one person, business, or organization is allowed to re-publish any of our original content anywhere on the web or in print without our permission. All photos used are either supplied by the artists, public domain Creative Commons photos, or licensed officially from Shutterstock under license with ClassicRockHistory.com.