How “Grind” Became Alice In Chains’ First Song Without Mike Starr

March 20, 2025

The sun shone brightly over Seattle on a crisp day in early 1994, yet there was a heavy cloud hanging over the city’s iconic grunge scene. It was a time of both change and turmoil for Alice in Chains, the band that had captured the hearts of so many with their haunting melodies and powerful lyrics. The band was in a state of flux after the departure of their bassist, Mike Starr, who had left the group due to struggles with addiction. For the members, it felt like the end of an era, and yet there was also a fire inside them that wouldn’t be extinguished. This was the moment they had to rise from the ashes and find a way forward, and it was during this time that “Grind” was born.

The writing process for “Grind” was emotional for the remaining members: vocalist Layne Staley, guitarist Jerry Cantrell, and drummer Sean Kinney. They gathered in a small, dimly lit rehearsal space, surrounded by the echoes of their past. Layne, with his piercing voice, poured his heart out, while Jerry strummed his guitar, seeking to capture the raw feelings of uncertainty and loss. The song began to take shape, with lyrics reflecting the struggles of addiction, the feeling of isolation, and the determination to keep moving forward despite the pain. It was as if they were channeling their sorrow into a powerful anthem that spoke not just to themselves but to anyone facing hardships.

As they worked on the song, the band members realized that “Grind” had a dual meaning. It wasn’t just about the grind of life and the struggles they were enduring; it was also about resilience. In the face of adversity, they found strength. This song wasn’t just a tribute to Mike, but a celebration of survival and the passion that music ignited in them. It was a reminder that though they had lost a member, their spirit remained unbroken. The emotional weight behind the lyrics resonated deeply with Layne, and he sang with a fervor that seemed to lift him, even in his darkest moments.

When “Grind” was released as the lead single from their album “Alice in Chains” in 1995, it marked a new chapter for the band. Fans eagerly embraced the sound, which was darker yet filled with an undeniable electric energy. The song’s success not only reassured the band members that they could move forward without Mike, but it also reached countless fans who connected with the message of hope and endurance. The music video showcased their struggle, featuring haunting imagery juxtaposed with powerful performances. It was an anthem of resilience, sounding the call that life continues despite the overwhelming odds.

As the band toured to promote the album, they felt a renewed sense of purpose. Each performance was a tribute to both their past and their future. They poured everything into their shows, determined to not just remember Mike Starr but to honor his legacy by showing that music could be a source of healing for those who needed it. “Grind” became a staple in their setlist, a song that encouraged fans to face their difficulties head-on and keep going, no matter how tough life got.

Years later, when people looked back on Alice in Chains, many highlighted “Grind” as a pivotal moment in their career. It was a song born out of pain but transformed into a message of hope. For the band, it was a reminder that even in their darkest hours, they could find light through music and brotherhood. They had turned their struggle into strength, proving that resilience is not just about surviving—it’s about thriving against the odds. And in doing so, they carved a new path for themselves, one that would inspire others for generations to come.