Here’s songs other artists wrote about Layne Staley ua-cam.com/video/LEt4NYpR40Q/v-deo.htmlsi=X4cCmFL3qTrkOb0r Do you guys like the lyrical analysis type videos or strictly the stories?
I think both work depending on the subject. Also while im thinking about it sap is there 2nd ep and jar of flies is there 3 the 1st ep should be We Die Young is that not correct.
@@rnrtruestories like these to. There are so many stories in songs as there are in RnR. Is great to know whats behind the lyrics. And I use to relate songs with my own expirience, transforming into something subjetive, so i am problably the worst listener for this kind of stories, but I like to hear and knowing (even though I continue to making that songs mine..🤣)
Another song about his vulnerability is the song by Mad Season - River of Deceit. The opening line "my pain is self chosen, at least so the prophet says" gives me chills every time. Truly haunting song.
I absolutely agree with you mad season was the perfect band river of deceit was a powerful song came from his soul comparable to nutshell in so many ways beautiful yet painful release of his fight within I'm sure he could have expressed those battles in a hundred more songs a hundred different bands and still been at war with himself such a sad lonely soul so much intense pain his only outlet was his music it told his story page by page addiction is painful it's dark it's sad I felt his pain
To this day, all these decades later still my go to music. Been a fan since day one. Huge effect on my life I can’t express this enough.The music these guys made to this very day still gives me goosebumps. I wish you had of given a shout out to the Mad Seasons as that also has incredible vocals. Great video man thanks, that brought back a flood of memories
My Mom died in 1994 at age 52, kidney cancer. I was 18 years old. I'd never met my Dad and heard he'd died a few years prior. Jar of Flies and the lyrics and music of AIC, along with Layne and Jerry's beautiful harmonies possibly saved my life. I was mildly suicidal, severely depressed, and had undiagnosed/untreated ADHD with no treatment or management of my depression and anxiety. I've always wished I could tell Layne and Jerry thank you. I could feel that they knew what deep pain felt like by listening to their music. They were still going and it made me feel like I could as well, I felt less alone, less hopeless. ❤😢
You really see a beautiful side of humanity when people open up about tragedies and grief in their life. Random strangers feel a connection and kinship with one another and it never ceases to amaze me of how kind, empathetic and uplifting people are towards those that pour their heart out in a comment. I'm glad you made it through and are still here with us today. You sound like a decent person.
Nutshell is undoubtedly one of their greatest songs! But with said. It's also one of most heart-wrenching song ever! God! Between Laynes haunting lyrics and his oh so sad singing. Then you have Jerry Cantrells guitar crying and you put everything together and you have one of the most sorrowful, songs ever written.😢
"You my friend, I will defend, and if we change, well I love you anyway" and "forgot my woman, lost my friends, things I'd done and where I've been. Sleep in sweat, the mirror's cold, see my face, it's growin' old." Are such deep and beautiful lines. Got one tattoo'd, will get 'em both. Incredible lyrics and songs, written and recorded in days.. That's just offensive, lol.
I play and sing the song all the time(kylesmusicplace) that forgot my woman part feels so incredible when I play it. I swear i can feel him through playing it, and having gone through the same addiction I so feel the pain and the hopelessness that comes with addiction.
@@stephenstuckey the man was a legend, him and Jerry had something incredible. Listening to Mark talk about all their adventures makes my soul both sing and cry for the lost talent. Much love brother in a world full of crazy
I saw them play Nutshell live for one of the first times ever in Detroit 9/93. They opened with it. Still one of the best shows I've seen to this day 🤘
I was at that show too. All my buddies were super into Alice since my best friend's band opened for them at St. Andrews. After the show Layne and Mike went to my buddy's house with way more people that could fit in that place. Soon after my buddy's band moved to Seattle, Mark Naficy, Alice's road and sound manager, was their manager. My buddy was there a few months then came back home. We formed a band and when Alice came in for that show, my buddy called our drummer and I to do some running for the band. They put us on the list. As I said, I wasn't very into Alice before the show, but that all changed during and after that show. I was a HUGE fan after that show! Nutshell was SO incredible at that show. When I listen to the studio version it actually is like being at that show again. The band went on to do one of if not their best performance that night. After Sean Kinney came out to chat with us. My buddy said he would have brought us backstage, but he said that Layne was OD'ing. That was an incredible night. If you haven't seen it yet, that show is on UA-cam!
@driverbass1554 super cool story! I know it was over 30 years ago and my mind def isn't as sharp but I remember Jerry getting pissed at that net when it finally dropped lol
I think "Wake Up" is a much deeper look into the addiction and it's toll taken on it's user. I know it's not an AIC song, but I think it's some of Layne's best work.
When I got Dirt ON CASSETTE,after hearing Rain When I Die, I proceeded to (holy sh*t I feel old) rewind and play it 8 times. That song and Sunshine usually bring tears to my eyes. I miss his voice every day.
@@jimglass3106 First, I haven’t ‘outgrown’ this music or how it makes me feel. Second, it immediately conjures up my 18yr old self so vividly that looking in the mirror and seeing a middle aged woman looking back comes as a genuine shock.
@@lauraf4202 I never knew how much I loved dark,heavy music with beautiful vocal harmonies until Facelift came out. I guess that's because no one had ever put those things together like that. Then Soundgarden,STP,Dirt...I just loved getting lost in it.
I can relate to this I am a recovering herion addict. I have od and I have lost two brothers to herion and friends . Drugs are no joke. You lose everything to gain nothing.
Same can be said about “Down in a hole” 😣… I believe it to be a very personal song for Layne as well… “Down in a hole and I don’t know if I can be saved” 🥹
Mark Lanegan's version of nutshell is just as amazing. He went through the same struggles as Layne... when others cover it.. it sounds like karaoke .. but with Lanegan it's authentic... especially since he and Layne were close friends. His passing shortly after performing this song only makes it more real.. Rip Mark and Layne
Oh I agree!! When I ran across this on YT it absolutely broke my heart. He sang it so well and I’ve never been a fan of his music but this song it was like he sang it for Layne 💔
@@ars_moriendi.official I know and trust me I’ve tried so hard to like his stuff but I just don’t, ok let me take that back I like certain songs of his
@kdsmoke his style of music changes a lot it's not for everyone but.. I recommend listening to The Winding Sheet, Bubblegum, Whiskey for the holy ghost, Blues Funeral, for his solo albums. The Reissue of the Mad Season above album includes (4 extra new songs)Screaming Trees Sweet Oblivion and Dust Albums and the Queens of the Stone age albums he's on at least 3 of them... you may find many songs you'll like and probably love the more you listen..
Nutshell is mt fav Alice in Chains song since when I found them out, around 2001-2002. Curiously, despite it's bleakness, this song and lyrics gave me a lot of solace and comfort during those tough teen years - even as of today.
As a whole, the song is talking about the fact that all he wanted to do was be famous, and how he knew it was ultimately destroying him. He had everything he thought he wanted, but all he wanted was to be normal again. He knew what was going to happen, and felt like there was nothing he could do to prevent it.
I remember me and my friends sitting in my living room waiting for Unplugged to start. There were rumors on the radio that Layne would not be there. When he came walking out and going right into "Nutshell" I don't think there was a dry eye in the room. It was absolutely powerful.
I was in the Air Force watching AIC unplugged in a dorm tv room. It was packed with probably 40 of us. Watched from start to finish..it was awesome. Best unplugged episode ever.
Had, and still have that Unplugged DVD. Used to watch that Nutshell intro religiously. Still watch it on UA-cam from time to time. Absolutely legendary!
If you listen to Dirt there is a real contrast between the lyrics written by Jerry as opposed to Layne. Layne has already basically signed off then, by the time of Jar of Flies it was a statement of the obvious. Layne's lyrics on Dirt make it clear that he is completely nihilistic, does not care about anything other than getting wasted and is willing to accept what comes with that.or even welcomes it.
I may be wrong but I think I saw somewhere the idea is in the first part of the album he doesn't care and is having fun but the second part he's realizing how bad his situation is and where it's going
Nutshell is played every morning and sung to. I feel I kinda felt the pain, having childhood leukemia at the time the band came out. Needless to say, one of my top five favorite bands. Love you guys. Just keep up the good work. To all y'all, fight the good fight. There is peace in rock n roll
What can I say about this song.... I have it tattooed in my arm. This song has save my life more than anything else. Thanks for everything you have done Layne.
Saw these guys at bogarts in Cincy two different times. First time for facelift and no one was there. Second time for Dirt was packed. Got my CD autographed by Layne and he was hammered beyond belief. Miss Layne’s genius lyrics and vocals. Damn.
JOF is by far my favorite AIC album. I played the CD so much that I wore it out, and had to go back to Tower Recods to buy another. Sad how prophetic 'Nutshell' seems in retrospect.
What AIC wrote & sang about just resonated with SO MANY at that time ….. I don’t think any other band will ever connect to so many on such a deep level ever again . Thanks for getting so many through troubled times & making us feel like “ We are NOT alone” in whatever was going on with each of us . R.I.P. Layne & Mike Starr … the music lives on .
100% one of the best and most soul touching songs ever written and performed. It identifies with everyone in one way or another. Laynes voice had the perfect emotion for the song. It’s a masterpiece!
The intro is so brilliantly simple. The guitar holds on for one more measure than expected, and this one little decision establishes the haunting mood perfectly.
It is definitely their best track. I played in a band for a few years, and it was part of our set list every night. It is such a deep and hauntingly beautiful song. It was hard to play through it sometimes.
I'm not sure what Lane wanted it to mean, but I know what it means to me and how it helped me through a dark time in my life. He may not have been able to save himself, but he was able to save me, and I'm sure so many other people. You are missed and loved Lane.
This song gives me goosebumps every time - very relatable for those of us that have had nothing & no-one at certain times in our lives . Rip Layne & Mike ❤
I remember when Jar of Flies came out I was immediately drawn to this song. It is like a generational anthem. Over 30 years later it now transcends even that as a reflection on despair.
It's definitely one of the 10 saddest songs I've ever heard; honestly I would even say top 5. It is so dark and brooding and it just grabs you and does not let you go. It makes you FEEL EVERYTHING of what Layne was going through at the time. It is definitely one of the bands signature and best songs.
What made Alice In Chains so great is what made their history as a band just so tragic. While Alice In Chains got the fame and fortune they sought, it came at such a high price.
It’s amazing how songs written and recorded in one week could be so impactful and timeless. Everything the band touched in the Layne era(the only era) turned to gold. Though I love the way Duvall sings this song. I think the lyrics are self explanatory. Can’t believe it’s been 30 years
Jar of Flies is just a timeless masterpiece. Best songs both emotionally and musically, lyrically, everything. Rotten Apple feels so intimately post-apocalyptic but in a country way. Nutshell is perfect. Stay Away, Whales & Wasps, and the rest is just good. I remember the first time I saw the video of Stay Away and didnt know anything about the band I said myself: wow this kind of riff is just the best to represent the soft outcast lifestyle.
I was Lucky to see AIC 2 times before Layne Stayley took his life and when i picked up Dirt and Jar Of Flies i was just blown away i had already experienced the band thanks to MTV with Man In The Box and i was hooked and i sent a black and white picture of the band to their label and all the sudden i got a call from AIC shortly after Jar Of Flies coming out and they wished me a Happy Birthday and sent me my pic back autographed along with a window cling of Jar Of Flies also signed by everybody and to talk to Layne he was very soft and sounded very depressed and im not gonna lie i miss him everyday and Nutshell and Over Now are my favorite 2 songs from AIC and i love the hauntingly beautiful guitar work from Jerry Cantrell especially with Nutshell at 3:28 til the end and i lost my dad 2 yrs ago and he surpised me when he started playing AIC's Nutshell and never realized a 73 yr old man loved AIC and now everytime i hear Nutshell it brings me to tears for Layne, Mike and my dad. RIP Layne we will see you down the road my brother and youve been gone now 22 yrs 😢
One of my favorite songs, bought the EP at tower records as soon as it came out, was a huge AIC fan back then and jar of flies is still my favorite record from them. Nutshell always stood out to me, you can feel Laynes pain.. amazing song, amazing album, amazing band, RIP Layne
Dude!!! Nice!!! "Sea of Sorrow" and "It Ain't Like That" along with "Sunshine " are indeed specifically underrated cuts from the debut 🤘 Thank you for casually mentioning them which I will now interpret as objective verification of my own opinion being awesome sauce to the 9th Power !
My favorite AIC songs are Nutshell and Its your Decision.. these melodies and lyrics in these songs are absolutely amazing and helped me out throughout the years.... The lyrics, the meaning and Layne's incredible voice touched me like no other songs... I still listen to these songs...🙏❤️🙏🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼
Hearing this song no matter where I’m at brings me to the first time I heard it. It floors you and when you really listen to the lyrics it sticks to you. I have Nutshell and Rain When I Die as songs I would want to be played at my funeral. Maybe then someone will listen and hear the words, feel them too. Like so many of us have.
I’m 36 years old and Alice In Chains has been my favorite band since I was in the first grade when my cousin brought over Facelift and they’ve been my favorite band ever since. Then when Dirt came out that became my favorite album of all time still to this day. Nutshell is a song that helped me through my struggles with depression and addiction. Just like all AIC songs when you hear it, it makes you feel something. To me it’s probably one of the greatest songs of all time because it lets people know what it’s like to live with these problems.
Yeah Jar of Flies was such a great EP.. We knew they could do the slower stuff and do it well, but Flies was a whole different thing. It was kinda risky too. I knew them as a metal band and grabbed Facelift when I was 11. Bands considered "metal" always had at least a few slower and even acoustic songs in their arsenal, but they weren't writing an entire album s worth of them. I know they're always referred to as grunge now but that wasn't really a thing when they put out Facelift. I have to give the edge to Rotten Apple over Nutshell, but that's like having a favorite Ferrari, they're all great. Talk about haunting. My God nobody does haunting like Staley era Alice.
I grew up in Hoqiuam, which was next to Aberdeen where Curt Cobain was from. The grunge era was my lifeblood and the defining part of my growing up in a small town that probably to this day does not stand out to many. Every song AIC did had so much emotional content from a great band. R.I.P. Layne Staley.
Here’s songs other artists wrote about Layne Staley ua-cam.com/video/LEt4NYpR40Q/v-deo.htmlsi=X4cCmFL3qTrkOb0r Do you guys like the lyrical analysis type videos or strictly the stories?
this is great , love the videos i been subbed for a couple years already
This is good do mad season
Both.
I think both work depending on the subject. Also while im thinking about it sap is there 2nd ep and jar of flies is there 3 the 1st ep should be We Die Young is that not correct.
@@rnrtruestories like these to. There are so many stories in songs as there are in RnR. Is great to know whats behind the lyrics. And I use to relate songs with my own expirience, transforming into something subjetive, so i am problably the worst listener for this kind of stories, but I like to hear and knowing (even though I continue to making that songs mine..🤣)
Before I clicked, I knew it was going to be Nutshell. One of those tunes that leaves you thinking "whoah." I miss Layne.
I choked up so hard when I read that last part.
Me too 😢
You got that right.
Resd lyrics to down in a hole
Best song ever made imo
I thought it would be River of Deceit by Mad Season
Another song about his vulnerability is the song by Mad Season - River of Deceit. The opening line "my pain is self chosen, at least so the prophet says" gives me chills every time. Truly haunting song.
Wake Up is even more to the point. My favorite song from that album but sad to listen to nowadays.
Oh hell yes
I absolutely agree with you mad season was the perfect band river of deceit was a powerful song came from his soul comparable to nutshell in so many ways beautiful yet painful release of his fight within I'm sure he could have expressed those battles in a hundred more songs a hundred different bands and still been at war with himself such a sad lonely soul so much intense pain his only outlet was his music it told his story page by page addiction is painful it's dark it's sad I felt his pain
Mad season in general has good songs like dang. Im above is really good too. I love that song.
To this day, all these decades later still my go to music. Been a fan since day one. Huge effect on my life I can’t express this enough.The music these guys made to this very day still gives me goosebumps. I wish you had of given a shout out to the Mad Seasons as that also has incredible vocals. Great video man thanks, that brought back a flood of memories
My Mom died in 1994 at age 52, kidney cancer. I was 18 years old. I'd never met my Dad and heard he'd died a few years prior. Jar of Flies and the lyrics and music of AIC, along with Layne and Jerry's beautiful harmonies possibly saved my life. I was mildly suicidal, severely depressed, and had undiagnosed/untreated ADHD with no treatment or management of my depression and anxiety. I've always wished I could tell Layne and Jerry thank you. I could feel that they knew what deep pain felt like by listening to their music. They were still going and it made me feel like I could as well, I felt less alone, less hopeless. ❤😢
@kim, sending love and prayers for your continued healing ❤
Bless your heart 💙
Sending you positive vibes
You really see a beautiful side of humanity when people open up about tragedies and grief in their life. Random strangers feel a connection and kinship with one another and it never ceases to amaze me of how kind, empathetic and uplifting people are towards those that pour their heart out in a comment. I'm glad you made it through and are still here with us today. You sound like a decent person.
Music has saved me many times over the years ❤️ never give up.
Nutshell is one of the greatest songs ever written. Forget about Musical genres push them aside the song is real and pure raw from start to finish.
Nutshell is undoubtedly one of their greatest songs! But with said. It's also one of most heart-wrenching song ever! God! Between Laynes haunting lyrics and his oh so sad singing. Then you have Jerry Cantrells guitar crying and you put everything together and you have one of the most sorrowful, songs ever written.😢
"Nutshell" is an amazing song, but those lyrics: "If I can't be my own, I'd feel better dead."
Haunting would be an understatement.
We all feel that deeply.
One of the saddest and most genuine songs ever.
It could almost be said *every song* _predicted_ *Lane Stayley's* _death._ R.I.P.
Layne ❤
amen
My thoughts exactly.
Ditto Chris Cornell. Every song.
@@carlodave9 chester bennington too...not (EVER SONG) but some of them
"You my friend, I will defend, and if we change, well I love you anyway" and "forgot my woman, lost my friends, things I'd done and where I've been. Sleep in sweat, the mirror's cold, see my face, it's growin' old." Are such deep and beautiful lines. Got one tattoo'd, will get 'em both. Incredible lyrics and songs, written and recorded in days.. That's just offensive, lol.
Don't Follow is probably my all-time fave AOC song. Jar of Flies is such a masterpiece ❤
Yes to both commenters! Rock on
I play and sing the song all the time(kylesmusicplace) that forgot my woman part feels so incredible when I play it. I swear i can feel him through playing it, and having gone through the same addiction I so feel the pain and the hopelessness that comes with addiction.
I ain't never comin home....a favorite.
@@stephenstuckey the man was a legend, him and Jerry had something incredible. Listening to Mark talk about all their adventures makes my soul both sing and cry for the lost talent. Much love brother in a world full of crazy
Favorite Unplugged appearance . Shit I just love this band .
Agreed.
Amen brother 🤘🏻
@@metalhigh0043 we missed or I missed out in seeing them in concert . One of a few bands . We getting old. I am 💚. Sorry I’m high .
@@nancysantamarialatica1141 amen sister I mean! 😆 Def feeling the sting of age bearing down! And I also am high! 😵💫😂 Smokey lunch 🍃
@@metalhigh0043 dude
I'm just happy to see people my age talking about and shining a light on the songs of our youth.
youth is wasted on the young
Best band to come out of the 90s in my humble opinion
...or maybe ever.
Agreed!!!
Agreed. Korn would be my other choice
Absolutely man
No of all time. 😊
I saw them play Nutshell live for one of the first times ever in Detroit 9/93. They opened with it. Still one of the best shows I've seen to this day 🤘
I was at that show too. All my buddies were super into Alice since my best friend's band opened for them at St. Andrews. After the show Layne and Mike went to my buddy's house with way more people that could fit in that place. Soon after my buddy's band moved to Seattle, Mark Naficy, Alice's road and sound manager, was their manager. My buddy was there a few months then came back home. We formed a band and when Alice came in for that show, my buddy called our drummer and I to do some running for the band. They put us on the list. As I said, I wasn't very into Alice before the show, but that all changed during and after that show. I was a HUGE fan after that show! Nutshell was SO incredible at that show. When I listen to the studio version it actually is like being at that show again. The band went on to do one of if not their best performance that night. After Sean Kinney came out to chat with us. My buddy said he would have brought us backstage, but he said that Layne was OD'ing. That was an incredible night. If you haven't seen it yet, that show is on UA-cam!
@driverbass1554 super cool story! I know it was over 30 years ago and my mind def isn't as sharp but I remember Jerry getting pissed at that net when it finally dropped lol
@@HolyShnikeez_1975 do a search for "Alice in Chains - State Theatre, Detroit, MI, Sep 29. 1993"
I was at that St Andrews show. Screaming Trees played too. Best show I've ever been to
I remember Layne saying Thanks for the great LSD Detroit. Lmfao
I can’t listen to this song and not cry. I’ve had my own battles. Most relatable song I’ve heard and felt.
Confusion is my favorite song on Facelift. Those vocallines are so raw and powerful beautifully demonstrating Layne's range.
One of the best songs of the grunge era, next to River Of Deceit, Say Hello 2 Heaven, Hunger Strike, and Black!
Bingo
Mike McCready is underrated.
I think he is in the top 10 best guitar players
Agreed!☺️
holy shit dude hunger strike is amazing i love temple of the dog
MAd season
I think "Wake Up" is a much deeper look into the addiction and it's toll taken on it's user. I know it's not an AIC song, but I think it's some of Layne's best work.
One of a handful of songs I’ve probably listened to over a thousand times. It still resonates the same today as it did 30 years ago.
When I got Dirt ON CASSETTE,after hearing Rain When I Die, I proceeded to (holy sh*t I feel old) rewind and play it 8 times. That song and Sunshine usually bring tears to my eyes. I miss his voice every day.
He was great.
It’s ‘sunshine’ for me too😢
@@lauraf4202 when the chorus kicks in and opens up,I still get chills to this day.
@@jimglass3106 First, I haven’t ‘outgrown’ this music or how it makes me feel. Second, it immediately conjures up my 18yr old self so vividly that looking in the mirror and seeing a middle aged woman looking back comes as a genuine shock.
@@lauraf4202 I never knew how much I loved dark,heavy music with beautiful vocal harmonies until Facelift came out. I guess that's because no one had ever put those things together like that. Then Soundgarden,STP,Dirt...I just loved getting lost in it.
That song was absolute 🔥! That era in music was the last innovation period of rock n roll, in my humble opinion. Thanks again!
It's about hopelessness, hopelessness in the world, hopelessness in himself, hoplessness in each other... Hopelessness
Can confirm. 100%. You must be a carpenter. You hit the nail on the head.
Yep all that self loathing and depression was the point of flipping the grunge switch in ‘91. Even the name sounds like it hates itself
Hanging out with Layne and Kirk had to be miserable sometimes. Nothing worse than a whiny junkie.
I love those two, but; junkies are annoying af
I can relate to this I am a recovering herion addict. I have od and I have lost two brothers to herion and friends . Drugs are no joke. You lose everything to gain nothing.
🖤🖤🖤🖤
Same can be said about “Down in a hole” 😣… I believe it to be a very personal song for Layne as well… “Down in a hole and I don’t know if I can be saved” 🥹
Jerry Cantrell actually wrote Down in a Hole
@@davzinzan Yep, it's actually a love song - feelings of losing a long distance relationship, I believe.
Got to see AIC with Layne twice and I'm thankful. R.I.P.
What was it like hearing that voice live?
Mark Lanegan's version of nutshell is just as amazing. He went through the same struggles as Layne... when others cover it.. it sounds like karaoke .. but with Lanegan it's authentic... especially since he and Layne were close friends. His passing shortly after performing this song only makes it more real.. Rip Mark and Layne
a-freakin- men
Oh I agree!! When I ran across this on YT it absolutely broke my heart. He sang it so well and I’ve never been a fan of his music but this song it was like he sang it for Layne 💔
@kdsmoke I'm glad you enjoyed Mark's version of the song... but sad you're not a fan of Lanegan's music... he's one of the GOATS
@@ars_moriendi.official I know and trust me I’ve tried so hard to like his stuff but I just don’t, ok let me take that back I like certain songs of his
@kdsmoke his style of music changes a lot it's not for everyone but.. I recommend listening to The Winding Sheet, Bubblegum, Whiskey for the holy ghost, Blues Funeral, for his solo albums. The Reissue of the Mad Season above album includes (4 extra new songs)Screaming Trees Sweet Oblivion and Dust Albums and the Queens of the Stone age albums he's on at least 3 of them... you may find many songs you'll like and probably love the more you listen..
I'm fekin baffled how this channel does not have subs, that number in the millions.
Spread the word!
Same here
Why sub? Waste of time
Nutshell is mt fav Alice in Chains song since when I found them out, around 2001-2002. Curiously, despite it's bleakness, this song and lyrics gave me a lot of solace and comfort during those tough teen years - even as of today.
As a whole, the song is talking about the fact that all he wanted to do was be famous, and how he knew it was ultimately destroying him. He had everything he thought he wanted, but all he wanted was to be normal again. He knew what was going to happen, and felt like there was nothing he could do to prevent it.
It crushed a lot of us. Some of us resonated with Layne in a major way.
I remember me and my friends sitting in my living room waiting for Unplugged to start. There were rumors on the radio that Layne would not be there. When he came walking out and going right into "Nutshell" I don't think there was a dry eye in the room. It was absolutely powerful.
I was in the Air Force watching AIC unplugged in a dorm tv room. It was packed with probably 40 of us. Watched from start to finish..it was awesome. Best unplugged episode ever.
Had, and still have that Unplugged DVD. Used to watch that Nutshell intro religiously. Still watch it on UA-cam from time to time. Absolutely legendary!
Facelift is my absolute favorite album because they were young and hungry and you could hear it. I live every song on facelift!!
If you listen to Dirt there is a real contrast between the lyrics written by Jerry as opposed to Layne. Layne has already basically signed off then, by the time of Jar of Flies it was a statement of the obvious. Layne's lyrics on Dirt make it clear that he is completely nihilistic, does not care about anything other than getting wasted and is willing to accept what comes with that.or even welcomes it.
The song, "Dirt" says it well.
I may be wrong but I think I saw somewhere the idea is in the first part of the album he doesn't care and is having fun but the second part he's realizing how bad his situation is and where it's going
Nutshell is played every morning and sung to. I feel I kinda felt the pain, having childhood leukemia at the time the band came out. Needless to say, one of my top five favorite bands. Love you guys. Just keep up the good work. To all y'all, fight the good fight. There is peace in rock n roll
Wow, I miss Layne. A rare talent. 4 octave voice and so gritty. A range that few have along with such deep lyrics.
I love the channel's retrospective approach to going deep inside Rock. You're keeping rock alive on UA-cam! We salute YA!
What can I say about this song.... I have it tattooed in my arm. This song has save my life more than anything else. Thanks for everything you have done Layne.
Sadly, I feel every song on 'Dirt' predicted Layne's death. May he rest peacefully 💙
You could here the pain in Layne`s voice as he sang it !
So many of my favorite songs from one band. AIC’s unique dark music will always be a part of growing up for me
Love Hate Love is my favorite AIC track. However, aftet watching this, Nutshell moves up the ranks. Incredible coverage
I love this song. I never put that album on with the intention of listening to this song, but then it comes on and I'm completely transfixed.
Saw these guys at bogarts in Cincy two different times. First time for facelift and no one was there. Second time for Dirt was packed. Got my CD autographed by Layne and he was hammered beyond belief. Miss Layne’s genius lyrics and vocals. Damn.
JOF is by far my favorite AIC album. I played the CD so much that I wore it out, and had to go back to Tower Recods to buy another. Sad how prophetic 'Nutshell' seems in retrospect.
AIC was my fav band of the grunge era. Nutshell is haunting and one of the best of the era! 🌰
AiC had some of the best harmonyies in music history.
The chorus vocals on Rain When I Die are so good, so brutal.
What AIC wrote & sang about just resonated with SO MANY at that time ….. I don’t think any other band will ever connect to so many on such a deep level ever again . Thanks for getting so many through troubled times & making us feel like “ We are NOT alone” in whatever was going on with each of us . R.I.P. Layne & Mike Starr … the music lives on .
100% one of the best and most soul touching songs ever written and performed. It identifies with everyone in one way or another. Laynes voice had the perfect emotion for the song. It’s a masterpiece!
The intro is so brilliantly simple. The guitar holds on for one more measure than expected, and this one little decision establishes the haunting mood perfectly.
It is definitely their best track. I played in a band for a few years, and it was part of our set list every night. It is such a deep and hauntingly beautiful song. It was hard to play through it sometimes.
I briefly played with Dave Hillis and his Comedy of Errors band while all of this was happening. Seems like another lifetime now.
nutshell only has two verses but it’s hauntingly beautiful
I'm not sure what Lane wanted it to mean, but I know what it means to me and how it helped me through a dark time in my life. He may not have been able to save himself, but he was able to save me, and I'm sure so many other people. You are missed and loved Lane.
This song gives me goosebumps every time - very relatable for those of us that have had nothing & no-one at certain times in our lives .
Rip Layne & Mike ❤
Layne's power as a singer and artist was simply unbelievable. Creating awe inspiring work was natural for him because he was the art
I remember when Jar of Flies came out I was immediately drawn to this song. It is like a generational anthem. Over 30 years later it now transcends even that as a reflection on despair.
It's definitely one of the 10 saddest songs I've ever heard; honestly I would even say top 5. It is so dark and brooding and it just grabs you and does not let you go. It makes you FEEL EVERYTHING of what Layne was going through at the time. It is definitely one of the bands signature and best songs.
Absolutely the best description and compilation. You nailed it. Can’t wait for the next.
hands down one of the best Layne doco's . Yes Nutshell one of his best songs, always makes me cry xx
I agree with you. Facelift and Jar of Flies are two of my favorites. Thanks for another great story.
You’re welcome!
@@rnrtruestoriesFacelift kicks ass! My favorite AIC album
Gotta be one of the best tracks laid down IMO. Hits me right in the chest every time I play it.
It’s for sure they’re best song…
Always been my favorite
And they’re one of my fave bands of all time!!! Thanks for the vid!!!
This is the number 1 song that anytime I hear or play it, commands the ultimate reverence and respect from me.
Most underrated band, ever
I thought it might've been Don't Follow. Layne's part is so visceral
What made Alice In Chains so great is what made their history as a band just so tragic. While Alice In Chains got the fame and fortune they sought, it came at such a high price.
Alice In Chains... one of the most important bands ever in my life.
It’s amazing how songs written and recorded in one week could be so impactful and timeless. Everything the band touched in the Layne era(the only era) turned to gold. Though I love the way Duvall sings this song. I think the lyrics are self explanatory. Can’t believe it’s been 30 years
The group's first EP was we die young.
Jar of Flies is just a timeless masterpiece. Best songs both emotionally and musically, lyrically, everything. Rotten Apple feels so intimately post-apocalyptic but in a country way. Nutshell is perfect. Stay Away, Whales & Wasps, and the rest is just good. I remember the first time I saw the video of Stay Away and didnt know anything about the band I said myself: wow this kind of riff is just the best to represent the soft outcast lifestyle.
I was Lucky to see AIC 2 times before Layne Stayley took his life and when i picked up Dirt and Jar Of Flies i was just blown away i had already experienced the band thanks to MTV with Man In The Box and i was hooked and i sent a black and white picture of the band to their label and all the sudden i got a call from AIC shortly after Jar Of Flies coming out and they wished me a Happy Birthday and sent me my pic back autographed along with a window cling of Jar Of Flies also signed by everybody and to talk to Layne he was very soft and sounded very depressed and im not gonna lie i miss him everyday and Nutshell and Over Now are my favorite 2 songs from AIC and i love the hauntingly beautiful guitar work from Jerry Cantrell especially with Nutshell at 3:28 til the end and i lost my dad 2 yrs ago and he surpised me when he started playing AIC's Nutshell and never realized a 73 yr old man loved AIC and now everytime i hear Nutshell it brings me to tears for Layne, Mike and my dad. RIP Layne we will see you down the road my brother and youve been gone now 22 yrs 😢
Just the crowd cheering the loudest when Layne came out on Unplugged still gives me goosebumps.
This is probably my favorite song of all time. Thanks for making a video about it!
Thanks!
Rotten apple is my favorite song off the jar of flies ep and nobody ever mentions it.
Agreed, the bass is great in that song.
Nutshell one of my all time favorite songs from one of my all time favorite bands.
The first time I heard Nutshell, it brought tears to my eyes, and it still does when those old feelings resurface while hearing it. Amazing song.
Rain when i die . Will be played when im gone . Alice got me through so many hard times in highschool. Love you brother.
Facelift is fucking epic. RIP Layne.
Came across this song recently. I overlooked Alice In Chains, great stuff
I think "Love Hate Love" should not be overlooked as another classic from "Facelift"
One of my favorite songs, bought the EP at tower records as soon as it came out, was a huge AIC fan back then and jar of flies is still my favorite record from them. Nutshell always stood out to me, you can feel Laynes pain.. amazing song, amazing album, amazing band, RIP Layne
Dude!!! Nice!!! "Sea of Sorrow" and "It Ain't Like That" along with "Sunshine " are indeed specifically underrated cuts from the debut 🤘 Thank you for casually mentioning them which I will now interpret as objective verification of my own opinion being awesome sauce to the 9th Power !
The song Shame in you was a more fitting prediction.
My favorite AIC songs are Nutshell and Its your Decision.. these melodies and lyrics in these songs are absolutely amazing and helped me out throughout the years.... The lyrics, the meaning and Layne's incredible voice touched me like no other songs... I still listen to these songs...🙏❤️🙏🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼
Every lyric Layne ever wrote predicted his death. Tortured souls always know the inevitability of how their lives will end.
My favorite vocalist ever. I obviously relate I’m a recovering Heroin addict 12 years clean. Sad he is gone. RIP Layne
Man I just went and watched the unplugged video and started sobbing. Tragic
Hearing this song no matter where I’m at brings me to the first time I heard it. It floors you and when you really listen to the lyrics it sticks to you. I have Nutshell and Rain When I Die as songs I would want to be played at my funeral. Maybe then someone will listen and hear the words, feel them too. Like so many of us have.
That song helped me get through a very tough time in my life I would listen to it on a loop during that time
Beautifully crafted video as usual, thanks for your work ❤❤❤
probably the only song that makes my eyes water especially the unplugged version.
I’m 36 years old and Alice In Chains has been my favorite band since I was in the first grade when my cousin brought over Facelift and they’ve been my favorite band ever since. Then when Dirt came out that became my favorite album of all time still to this day. Nutshell is a song that helped me through my struggles with depression and addiction. Just like all AIC songs when you hear it, it makes you feel something. To me it’s probably one of the greatest songs of all time because it lets people know what it’s like to live with these problems.
35 here & I've been listening to them since I was a wee lad
I really like your addition of music clips, makes it so much better. Thanks
Thx for the insightful video about Layne. May he rest in peace.
Yeah Jar of Flies was such a great EP.. We knew they could do the slower stuff and do it well, but Flies was a whole different thing. It was kinda risky too. I knew them as a metal band and grabbed Facelift when I was 11. Bands considered "metal" always had at least a few slower and even acoustic songs in their arsenal, but they weren't writing an entire album s worth of them. I know they're always referred to as grunge now but that wasn't really a thing when they put out Facelift.
I have to give the edge to Rotten Apple over Nutshell, but that's like having a favorite Ferrari, they're all great. Talk about haunting. My God nobody does haunting like Staley era Alice.
I grew up in Hoqiuam, which was next to Aberdeen where Curt Cobain was from. The grunge era was my lifeblood and the defining part of my growing up in a small town that probably to this day does not stand out to many. Every song AIC did had so much emotional content from a great band. R.I.P. Layne Staley.
I knew it would be Nutshell. My absolute favorite song he sung. It’s hard to choose a favorite but I can play it on repeat all day.