Seattle mayor Jenny Durkan has proclaimed August 22, 2019 as “Layne Staley Day” in Seattle, WA. The former frontman of Alice In Chains and Mad Season would've turned 52-years-old today. Staley passed away on April 5, 2002 from a drug overdose.
Not only is "Layne Staley Day" a chance to remember his contributions to the music world, it's also a call to attention to the Layne Staley Memorial Fund, established by his parents in 2002. The organization strives to provide "hope, education, support and treatment funds for heroin recovery in the Seattle music community." Donations can be made to the fund here.
Several events have been organized for the occasion, including an annual gathering tonight at the International Fountain in Seattle Center at 7:00 PM. Members of Staley's family will be in attendance for a "meet and greet." Afterwards, at the Nectar Lounge, there will be an acoustic performance from Jar of Flies (an Alice in Chains tribute band) with special guests, Outshined (Chris Cornell Tribute) and Washed in Black (Tribute to Pearl Jam). Tribute shows are also scheduled for Friday and Saturday night at The Crocodile. More information on these concerts and the foundation can be found here.
Alice In Chains is on the verge of releasing a new record titled Rainier Fog, out this Friday, August 24th via BMG. KEXP chats with Tacoma-born musician, guitarist Jerry Cantrell.
