The Time Alice In Chains Recorded A Music Video In A Haunted Mental Hospital

March 21, 2025

In the summer of 1993, the iconic band Alice in Chains found themselves at the hollowed halls of an old mental hospital in the heart of Washington. The building, with its crumbling walls and eerie whispers echoing through the corridors, had long been abandoned. Rumors of ghostly figures and unsettling sounds filled the air, but the band was unfazed. They had a vision for their new music video, and nothing would deter them from capturing the raw emotion of their song, “Them Bones.”

As the band set up their equipment in the crumbling courtyard, the sun began to set, casting long shadows that danced eerily on the walls. The vibe was intense, with the weight of the past pressing down on everyone. Jerry Cantrell, the band’s guitarist and co-vocalist, could feel the spirits of the place urging them on, as if the ghosts were eager to witness the music that had transformed their own pain into something beautiful. As they began to play, the haunting lyrics filled the air, and it felt like the very walls were listening. The band’s music drew from personal struggles, and here, in this haunted place, it became a powerful testament to resilience and survival.

Filming in such an unsettling location was not without its challenges. Midway through the shoot, the crew experienced strange occurrences: lights flickered, eerie sounds punctuated their work, and even the temperature mysteriously dropped. However, instead of feeling scared, the band members leaned into the energy, using the tension to fuel their performance. It was as if the darkness surrounding the hospital mirrored their own battles with addiction and loss. Each strum of the guitar, each note sung, became a fierce declaration of their will to rise above their struggles, transforming pain into creativity.

The video’s release was monumental. “Them Bones” became one of Alice in Chains’ most recognized songs, resonating with fans who saw their own struggles reflected in the band’s music. The haunting imagery of the mental hospital blended with the raw power of the song created an unforgettable atmosphere. It reminded everyone that while life can be filled with shadows and difficulties, the light of creativity and expression could shine through even the darkest moments.

This experience not only gave Alice in Chains a powerful music video but also served as a turning point in their career. It deepened their connection with fans and encouraged them to keep pushing the boundaries of their music. As they performed at concerts across the country, the band shared the story behind the video, inspiring others to embrace their struggles. They became beacons of hope for those facing their own haunted pasts, proving that through music, one can find strength and healing.

Looking back, the album “Dirt” and its haunting yet powerful tracks, recorded around that time, shaped not just Alice in Chains’ destiny but also left an indelible mark on rock music. The haunted mental hospital became a symbol of resilience, reminding everyone that even in places filled with darkness, the human spirit can soar through the power of art, leaving a legacy of inspiration for generations to come.