Why Alice In Chains’ “Hollow” Was One Of Their Most Crushing Riffs In Years

March 20, 2025

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the Seattle skyline, Jerry Cantrell sat alone in his studio, surrounded by scattered guitars and half-finished songs. It had been a long journey for Alice in Chains. After years of ups and downs, including the heartbreaking loss of lead singer Layne Staley, the band found themselves struggling to regain their footing. The world of rock had changed while they were away, and the weight of their legacy felt heavier than ever. But deep down, Jerry knew they had something special brewing, something that could resonate with both old fans and new.

With a flick of his fingers across the strings, Jerry began to play a somber yet powerful riff. It was raw and haunting, a sound that echoed the emptiness he felt inside after losing someone so dear. As he played, the melody conjured images of struggles and heartache, but also of hope. This was the birth of “Hollow.” Each note struck deep, carving out the pain they had endured and transforming it into something strikingly beautiful. The song captured the essence of resilience, reflecting on the struggle to move forward in a world that felt so hollow without Layne.

When the band finally came together to record the song, the energy in the studio was electric. Sean Kinney’s drumming thundered like a storm, and Mike Inez’s bass wrapped around Jerry’s guitar like a comforting embrace. But what truly elevated “Hollow” was the powerful vocals of new frontman William DuVall. His voice, filled with both sorrow and strength, breathed new life into the song. It was a reminder that even in the darkest moments, music could serve as a guiding light. Together, they not only honored Layne’s memory but also forged a new path for the band, one that celebrated their past while looking boldly to the future.

When “Hollow” was released, the reaction was overwhelming. Fans old and new connected with the song’s message, finding comfort in its lyrics about dealing with loss and searching for meaning. Critics praised it as one of the band’s most crushing riffs in years, and for a moment, it felt as if Alice in Chains had reclaimed their throne in the rock world. The song resonated on radio stations and playlists, filling arenas with a sense of shared experience, a collective strength in vulnerability.

For Jerry and the rest of the band, “Hollow” wasn’t just a song; it was a statement. It symbolized their journey through darkness and the power of resilience. Each time they performed it live, the energy was palpable; fans sang along, their voices intertwining with the band’s as if to say, “We are in this together.” The song created an unforgettable bond, a reminder that even in hollow times, there is beauty to be found in shared struggles.

As Alice in Chains continued to tour and create, they carried the spirit of “Hollow” with them. It became a symbol of their evolution, proving that they could rise from the ashes and inspire others with their music. The riff that once echoed Jerry’s personal heartbreak had turned into a powerful anthem of strength and healing. Through resilience, passion, and the unwavering spirit of music, Alice in Chains showed the world that even when life feels hollow, we all have the power to fill it with meaning and hope.