Layne Staley, born on August 22, 1967, was an influential American singer-songwriter and musician, best known as the original lead vocalist of the iconic band Alice in Chains. Rising to prominence in the early 1990s, Staley's powerful and distinctive vocal style, coupled with his ability to harmonize with bandmate Jerry Cantrell, helped define the sound of Seattle's grunge movement. Before achieving fame with Alice in Chains, he was a member of glam metal bands Sleze and Alice N' Chains, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Staley's career took off with the release of Alice in Chains' debut album, Facelift, in 1990, featuring the hit single