Seattle is rich in rock history and has produced some of the biggest names in the business, from Jimi Hendrix to Soundgarden. Now, the Emerald City has further tightened its bond to its musical roots with Mayor Jenny Durkan officially declaring August 22nd "Layne Staley Day," in honour of what would have been the late Alice In Chains frontman’s 52nd birthday.
Fronting Alice In Chains, as well as grunge supergroup Mad Season, Staley was one of the strongest voices to emerge from the Seattle scene. Tragically, the singer passed away from a heroin overdose in 2002 at the age of 34, leaving behind a legacy that inspired a generation of rock singers.
Alice In Chains | “Would”
“Layne Staley Day” day will serve as an opportunity to remember Staley’s contributions to the world of heavy music, as an artist on the forefront of Seattle’s early ’90s grunge explosion. And, to call to attention to the ‘Layne Staley Memorial Fund’, which was established by his parents in 2002, to provide “hope, education, support and treatment funds for heroin recovery in the Seattle music community.”
Mayor Durkan signed a proclamation declaring Staley “an influential and incredible musician.”
“Layne’s voice was legendary, and other musicians are heavily influenced by his instantly recognizable vocal style,” the proclamation reads. “Layne tragically passed away after a long battle with substance use disorder, propelling his fans, friends, and family to advocate for addiction recovery and treatment.”
The document continues: “We support our residents who struggle with substance use disorder, and commend Layne Staley Memorial Fund for providing hope, education, support and treatment funds for heroin recovery in the Seattle community…The city of Seattle celebrates Layne’s artistry and the promotion of the arts in Seattle as we work toward a more vibrant, healthy and safe city.”
The entire document can be viewed on KEXP’s site.
Several events and tribute performances will take place around Seattle to mark the special occasion, including an acoustic performance from Alice In Chains tribute act Jar of Flies.
Celebrate Layne Staley day with This Is Alice In Chains on Spotify:
Listen to the Alice In Chains Essentials on Apple Music:
