Alice in Chains stands as a titan in rock history, wielding one of the most profoundly dark and undeniably influential catalogs in the genre. Spanning six studio albums, alongside a collection of EPs and live releases, their body of work is a testament to raw emotion and musical innovation. It’s a catalog so impactful, it begs the question why, after years of eligibility, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has yet to even nominate this seminal band. This oversight is a stark reminder that even institutions can sometimes miss true greatness.
The Alice in Chains story began in the burgeoning Seattle music scene of 1987, when guitarist Jerry Cantrell and drummer Sean Kinney joined forces. The lineup solidified with the addition of bassist Mike Starr and the uniquely powerful vocals of Layne Staley. While Soundgarden may have been the first of the Seattle grunge wave to ink a major label deal, Alice in Chains quickly followed, signing with Columbia Records in 1989. Their debut album, Facelift, arrived soon after, unleashing “Man in the Box” onto the world – an anthem that became one of the first mainstream signals of the grunge movement’s seismic shift in music.
Alice in Chains: A Legacy Forged in Grunge and Beyond
What sets Alice in Chains apart from many of their contemporaries is their masterful use of the EP format. Sap, released in February 1992, and Jar of Flies, which followed in January 1994, are not mere afterthoughts but integral parts of their discography. Notably, Jar of Flies made history as the first EP ever to debut at the top of the Billboard 200 chart, a testament to the band’s immense popularity and artistic depth even in shorter formats.
Sandwiched between these EPs was Dirt, often hailed as Alice in Chains’ magnum opus. This album is a relentless journey through darkness and introspection, featuring iconic tracks like “Rooster,” “Them Bones,” “Angry Chair,” “Would?”, and “Down in a Hole.” Dirt has resonated deeply with audiences, achieving 5x platinum certification in the United States, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of 90s rock and a benchmark for grunge albums.
The narrative of Alice in Chains cannot be told without acknowledging the tragic losses of Layne Staley and Mike Starr. Staley’s passing in April 2002 at just 34, and Starr’s in March 2011 at 44, were profound blows to the music world. Both succumbed to overdoses after long battles with addiction. Starr’s struggles, in fact, led to his departure from the band in 1993, with Mike Inez stepping in as his permanent replacement. After nearly a decade of hiatus following Staley’s death, Alice In Chains bravely reformed, welcoming William DuVall as their new vocalist. This new chapter has been fruitful, yielding three critically acclaimed albums: 2009’s Black Gives Way to Blue, 2013’s The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here, and 2018’s Rainier Fog, proving their enduring creative force.
Now, we delve into the heart of their discography, celebrating Alice in Chains by ranking their 30 best songs. This list explores the depths and heights of their musical journey, highlighting the tracks that have cemented their legacy as grunge icons and rock innovators.
Ranking the 30 Best Alice in Chains Songs: A Deep Dive
30. “Stone” – ‘The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here’ (2013)
“Stone” marks Alice in Chains’ most recent chart-topper on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Songs chart, a metric based purely on radio airplay. The song’s powerful, driving riff is a testament to Jerry Cantrell’s guitar prowess, even under challenging circumstances. Remarkably, Cantrell conceived the riff while recovering from shoulder surgery and unable to play guitar, humming it into his phone. This anecdote underscores Cantrell’s inherent musicality and the band’s ability to consistently deliver impactful rock anthems.
29. “Never Fade” – ‘Rainier Fog’ (2018)
“Never Fade” is a poignant tribute, layered with meaning. It honors Chris Cornell, who passed away shortly before the Rainier Fog sessions began, William DuVall’s grandmother who died during the album’s creation, and the ever-present memory of Layne Staley. Lyrics such as, “You’re never far away, I always see you/And when it all goes dark you light my way through,” resonate with loss and enduring remembrance, making it a deeply emotional track.
28. “Shame In You” – ‘Alice In Chains’ (1995)
With its bluesy undertones and subtle twang, “Shame In You” stands as one of Alice in Chains’ most underrated ballads. Its placement on the band’s self-titled album, often considered their most inconsistent, might contribute to its overlooked status. However, the song’s inherent quality shines through, showcasing the band’s versatility and ability to craft compelling ballads even amidst heavier material.
27. “The One You Know” – ‘Rainier Fog’ (2018)
Five years after The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here, Alice In Chains roared back with Rainier Fog and its lead single, “The One You Know.” The song’s opening riff is undeniably heavy and crunchy, instantly re-establishing their signature sound. Decades into their career, “The One You Know” proved that Alice in Chains still possessed their trademark darkness and a wellspring of creative energy.
26. “Am I Inside” – ‘SAP’ (1992)
“Am I Inside” is one of two gems on the SAP EP to feature Ann Wilson of Heart, whose vocal contribution elevates the track to another dimension. The blend of Wilson, Staley, and Cantrell’s voices is nothing short of sublime, highlighting the deep respect the Seattle grunge scene held for Heart and their pioneering role in rock music.
25. “Killer Is Me” – ‘Unplugged’ (1996)
Alice in Chains’ Unplugged performance is iconic, featuring their biggest hits in acoustic arrangements. Amidst these familiar tracks, they debuted “Killer Is Me,” a new song that fit seamlessly into the set’s poignant and powerful atmosphere, demonstrating their continued songwriting prowess even in an acoustic setting.
24. “Get Born Again” – ‘Nothing Safe: Best of the Box’ (1999)
“Get Born Again” is among the last songs Alice in Chains recorded with Layne Staley before his untimely death in 2002. Despite his well-documented struggles, Staley’s vocal delivery on this track is a powerful return to form, reminiscent of his performances on Facelift and Dirt, showcasing his enduring vocal strength and lyrical depth.
23. “Again” – ‘Alice In Chains’ (1995)
Penned by Staley, “Again” pairs lyrics filled with despair with an uncharacteristically uptempo riff for Alice in Chains. Over time, “Again” has only grown eerier in retrospect, its themes of cyclical struggle and internal conflict resonating even more deeply in the context of Staley’s life and legacy.
22. “Voices” – ‘The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here’ (2013)
The third single from The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here, “Voices,” stands out as the album’s strongest track and the second to feature William DuVall. It’s one of Cantrell’s most radio-friendly compositions in recent years, yet it remains unmistakably Alice in Chains, balancing accessibility with their signature sonic identity.
21. “Over Now” – ‘Unplugged’ (1996)
Originally the closing track of their 1995 self-titled album, the Unplugged version of “Over Now” is preferred here. This rendition features a slightly faster tempo and arguably stronger vocals from Cantrell. The entire MTV Unplugged performance is essential viewing, available on the band’s YouTube channel, and remains one of the series’ best and most subtly powerful episodes.
20. “Lesson Learned” – ‘Black Gives Way to Blue’ (2009)
As the fourth single from Black Gives Way to Blue, “Lesson Learned” is a relatively straightforward alternative rock song. However, its incredibly catchy hook is undeniable, making it a standout track from their comeback album and a testament to their ability to craft compelling melodies.
19. “We Die Young” – ‘Facelift’ (1990)
“We Die Young” was Alice In Chains’ debut single, setting a thematic precedent for their future work. Its lyrics confront the grim reality of youth and drug dealing in Seattle, signaling the band’s willingness to tackle dark and challenging subject matter. While not a mainstream hit initially, it became a fan favorite and a crucial early track in their discography.
18. “Love, Hate, Love” – ‘Facelift’ (1990)
The Black Sabbath influence is palpable in “Love, Hate, Love.” Clocking in at over six minutes, the song showcases Layne Staley’s extraordinary vocal range and power, with lyrics also credited to him. It’s a dramatic and intense track that highlights the band’s ability to blend metal influences with grunge sensibilities.
17. “Right Turn” – ‘SAP’ (1992)
“Right Turn” is a unique collaboration featuring vocals from Staley, Cantrell, Chris Cornell of Soundgarden, and Mark Arm of Mudhoney. While technically credited to “Alice Mudgarden” in the liner notes, its inclusion on the SAP EP firmly places it within the Alice in Chains canon, showcasing a historic Seattle supergroup moment.
16. “Dam That River” – ‘Dirt’ (1992)
“Dam That River” emerged from band tension. Cantrell wrote the song after a fight with drummer Sean Kinney, who broke a coffee table over Cantrell’s head. This anecdote highlights the raw energy and sometimes volatile dynamics within the band, channeling conflict into creative output.
15. “Don’t Follow” – ‘Jar of Flies’ (1994)
“Don’t Follow” is a devastatingly beautiful acoustic blues song. Its emotional depth is immediately apparent, aching with a sense of loneliness and yearning. It’s a standout example of their acoustic capabilities and their knack for conveying profound emotion through stripped-down arrangements.
14. “Sea of Sorrow” – ‘Facelift’ (1990)
The third single from Facelift, “Sea of Sorrow,” emphasizes Alice in Chains’ metal roots, particularly in Cantrell’s opening riff. Sean Kinney’s subtle piano playing on the track adds an unexpected layer, demonstrating the band’s willingness to experiment and incorporate diverse musical elements.
13. “Brother” – ‘SAP’ (1992)
Featuring backing vocals from Ann Wilson, “Brother” is a deeply personal song for Cantrell, written as an olive branch to his younger brother, David. Separated by their parents’ divorce, the song explores themes of family and reconciliation, though Cantrell has penned another even more impactful song about a family member, yet to come on this list.
12. “Angry Chair” – ‘Dirt’ (1992)
“Angry Chair” is solely credited to Layne Staley, who also plays rhythm guitar on the track. It offers an intense and unflinching look into Staley’s internal struggles, with lyrics like, “Corporate prison, we stay yeah/I’m a dull boy, work all day/So I’m strung out anyway,” revealing a raw and personal perspective.
11. “Got Me Wrong” – ‘SAP’ (1992)
Though on SAP, “Got Me Wrong” gained wider recognition as a single in 1994 after being featured in Kevin Smith’s film Clerks. Melodically, it’s perhaps Alice in Chains at their most upbeat, a surprising descriptor for the band, yet “Got Me Wrong” balances jaunty melodies with typically biting lyrics.
10. “Check My Brain” – ‘Black Gives Way to Blue’ (2009)
Any doubts about Alice in Chains’ return after a decade-long hiatus and Layne Staley’s death were dispelled with “Check My Brain.” William DuVall’s vocal synergy with Cantrell was immediately apparent and remains a defining element of the band’s current sound. The lyrics, filled with whimsical sarcasm about Cantrell’s move to Los Angeles, add a lighter, yet still edgy, dimension.
9. “Heaven Beside You” – ‘Alice In Chains’ (1995)
While Alice In Chains can feel somewhat uneven, it contains highlights like the haunting “Heaven Beside You.” Stylistically, it would fit seamlessly on Jar of Flies, sharing a similar acoustic and introspective vibe. Written by Cantrell after a breakup, his lead vocals enhance the song’s intimacy and emotional vulnerability.
8. “I Stay Away” – ‘Jar of Flies’ (1994)
“I Stay Away” is not just a standout on Jar of Flies but in Alice in Chains’ entire catalog. Its unique sound might be attributed to being the first song written with new bassist Mike Inez. Jerry Cantrell’s guitar solo and the beautifully tense string arrangement add layers to the band’s sonic palette, showcasing their range and innovation.
7. “Nutshell” – ‘Jar of Flies’ (1994)
“Nutshell” is profoundly stripped down and raw, both acoustically and lyrically. Layne Staley’s simple, direct lyrics, “We chase misprinted lies/We face the path of time/And yet I fight/And yet I fight/This battle all alone/No one to cry to/No place to call home,” are a sincere and heartbreaking gut punch that amplifies the sense of loss surrounding Staley.
6. “Would?” – ‘Dirt’ (1992)
Initially featured on the Singles movie soundtrack, where Alice in Chains also made a cameo, “Would?” is a tribute to Mother Love Bone singer Andrew Wood, who died of a heroin overdose in 1990. Mike Starr’s exceptional bass intro and Staley’s soaring vocals in the chorus underscore the song’s power and emotional resonance.
5. “Down In a Hole” – ‘Dirt’ (1992)
Universally praised by critics and fans, “Down In a Hole” may be one of rock’s most underrated ballads. While rock ballads often emphasize power, “Down In a Hole” achieves its impact through raw vulnerability and poetic lyrics, such as, “Down in a hole and they’ve put all the stones in their place/I’ve eaten the sun so my tongue has been burned to the taste,” showcasing Cantrell’s lyrical and melodic genius.
4. “No Excuses” – ‘Jar of Flies’ (1994)
“No Excuses” became Alice in Chains’ first number one hit on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Songs chart, driven by radio airplay. Sean Kinney and Mike Inez’s outstanding rhythm work is a key element of its catchiness. Written by Cantrell about his strained relationship with Staley, it’s a poignant song about friendship enduring despite difficulties, with the final verse, “You, my friend, I will defend/And if we change, well, I’ll love you anyway,” highlighting enduring loyalty.
3. “Man in the Box” – ‘Facelift’ (1990)
The breakout single for Alice in Chains, “Man in the Box,” is a true rock monster. It’s their most played song live, and it served as a potent warning shot from the Seattle grunge scene to the broader rock world. Even decades later, its vitality is undeniable, evidenced by being the second-most played song on active rock radio in the 2010s, only surpassed by Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
2. “Them Bones” – ‘Dirt’ (1992)
Opening Dirt, “Them Bones” bursts forth, setting the album’s dark and brilliant tone. Alice in Chains’ signature is balancing bleakness with intensity, and “Them Bones” exemplifies this with its blunt chorus, “I feel so alone, gonna end up a big ole pile of them bones.” Staley’s fervent screams add to the song’s raw power, making it a grunge gold standard.
1. “Rooster” – ‘Dirt’ (1992)
An epic in every sense, “Rooster” is akin to a Bruce Springsteen song if crafted by a grunge artist. Unlike many storytelling songs, “Rooster” is deeply personal and biographical, named after Jerry Cantrell, Sr.’s nickname and serving as a tribute from Cantrell Jr. to his father’s Vietnam War service. It’s a stunning and intensely personal exploration of war’s horrors, showcasing storytelling at its finest in music. Every band member excels, particularly Staley and Cantrell, whose harmonies are chilling and powerful. While many Alice in Chains songs could contend for the top spot, “Rooster” remains their unparalleled masterpiece.
