04/05/2018 – Today marks the 16th Anniversary since Layne Staley’s death.  The reasons why have been well documented.  What we should focus our attention on is the brilliant voice that left us far too soon.

Most of the time when we praise an artist we talk in terms of era or genre.  In Layne’s case, it’s one of the best voices in musical history.  In Rock music his voice is arguably already on the Mt. Rushmore of vocalists, but his raw emotion, subtle nuances, and vocal range make him one of the best ever.

Need some reference? This is a song we have added to our music reviews because we love it so much. Listen to his shiver inspiring performance on 1994’s Mad Season song ‘Wake Up’.

You not only feel pain lyrically, the pain in his voice was ghostly even back then.

Layne was born August 22, 1967 and passed away on April 5, 2002 at the age of 34.  He inspired many artists and there have been many bands that have written and recorded songs dedicated to Layne’s memory.  Some of the notable songs include the Staind song ‘Layne’, Cold’s 2003 ‘The Day Seattle Died’, ‘Shadow’ by Theory of a Deadman and Zakk Wylde’s song ‘Layne’ from his band, Black Label Society.

So today I want to remember Layne Staley for musical legacy and the vocal genius we were able to witness.  Rest In Peace.

-JC