In a poignant revelation, Jerry Cantrell, the iconic guitarist of Alice in Chains, has finally opened up about the tumultuous relationship he shared with the band’s original bassist, Mike Starr, who tragically passed away in 2011. For over three decades, Cantrell kept these memories buried, but now he sheds light on the darker realities that plagued their rise to fame during the grunge era.

Alice in Chains emerged from Seattle’s music scene in the late 1980s, capturing the essence of a generation with haunting melodies and powerful performances. Their debut album, “Facelift,” released in 1990, marked the beginning of a meteoric rise, with hits like “Man in the Box” earning them critical acclaim and commercial success. However, the pressures of fame, relentless touring, and substance abuse soon cast a shadow over their achievements.

Cantrell reveals that Starr’s departure in 1993 was not merely a personal choice, but a heartbreaking ultimatum from the band due to his struggles with addiction. As Cantrell recalls, “We didn’t want to lose him, but he was no longer the Mike I once knew.” This painful decision left deep scars within the band, which only deepened after Starr’s subsequent battles with addiction following his exit.

Despite attempts to confront his demons, including a stint on “Celebrity Rehab,” Starr’s struggle with substance abuse proved insurmountable. His life ended in tragedy in 2011, a loss that continues to haunt Cantrell. Reflecting on their shared history, he expresses regret over not being able to save his friend, stating, “I keep wondering what I missed… to keep him here.”

As Alice in Chains continues to make music with new members, Cantrell’s memories of Starr linger, influencing his songwriting and serving as a poignant reminder of their bond. The story of Jerry Cantrell and Mike Starr is not just one of friendship and music but a profound narrative about the struggles of addiction and the enduring impact of loss within the world of rock.