I've said this a few times about this channel but it's becoming an extremely valuable archive. Artists are given a platform to actually speak about what they do in the company of an informed, intelligent interviewer who can ask questions from an educated standpoint. It's always a joy.
great channel to gain valuable information from. who better to learn from than incredibly experienced individuals, with someone who can ask them the right questions.
I'm seriously hoping Rick's interviews are being archived in the Smithsonian and/or other academic libraries. The quality and choice of musicians including headliners, studio players, songwriters, producers, etc. and their obvious pleasure in doing deep dives into their catalogs, talents, collaborations, and joys of creation are unmatched-- they recognize Rick as one of them, which brings a whole other level of communication and mutual respect to the conversation. The past 50 years have seen so much evolution in all elements of producing popular music and Rick's interviews will stick around as a primary resource.
And AIC would also be nothing without the powerhouse rhythm sections of Sean Kinney/Mike Starr & Mike Inez. Every piece of the puzzle matters for this band to be what they are.
@@HatchetMouth Por eso son una gran banda hasta ahora. No los 'conocía' hasta hace poco tiempo pero hay canciones que me siguen volando la cabeza , así que seguiré a AIC y a Jerry en solitario ❤
@justinrensel8518 yeah I felt that too. He seemed humble for the most part, but a little ego at times...but then I thought fck it good for him. It's his music at the end of the day, he can do what he wants
Jerry mentioning Queensryche is just so amazing. I think Jerry is the most talented guy of the Grunge movement. Unmatched riff monster, songwriter, vocalist!
Chris Degarmo is super tight with Jerry! He played guitar on Drone and I think he has some added parts on Boggy Depot. He may or may not have been a part of his solo band at one point
This guy is SO understated, underrated as a player and writer, and truly an American musical icon. I can't listen to him without constantly going 'Wow, that's an unbelievable musical idea executed to perfection.'
He’s really in slot of his own of mastery on creating the perfect canvas for countless legendary songs. His vocals and having the structure for other instruments to have a strong quality presence. Pure Brilliance!
@@brentcollins9727 when people name the 'best' players of the last 30 years, it's guys like Morello, Slash, Hammett, Frusciante, and even Cobain and Mayer. Cantrell is better but never gets the mentions. Underrated.
@@TebowTheNextKilmer I was asking myself, how could Jerry be underrate when he is so damn great? But when you responded, I thought it was a great response. Nonetheless, a good case can be made, in the guitar community, Jerry is very well respected for his playing and especially his vocals.
@@TebowTheNextKilmer I don't know anyone who would say Cobain and Mayer are better than Jerry. If someone did say that then they need their brain checked for heavy damage. Pun intended, but seriously though.
That man wrote arguably the best riffs to come out of the era. A true icon of the grunge era. Rick's interviews are going to go into the library of congress one day.
I will never forget the moment MTV debuted Man In The Box. I almost feel like that was the defining moment of my path towards being a musician. Jerry is a legend and an absolute down to earth person in real life. Alice In Chains will always be one of the greatest rock bands ever.
They are definitely one of the greatest rock bands in history. Their sound was so unique and when paired with the lyrics and vocals, created a feeling that was powerfully impactful.
@SuziQ. I disagree I disagree on facelift they have some others that are much better I can't think of them right now but there's like three or four others that are much better this is not a matter of opinion it's a matter of fact it's not my fault you don't have very good hearing in your ears just because your taste is different doesn't mean anything yeah you can have your opinion the only thing is your opinion is wrong I'm a musician I'm a singer I know good from crap big difference Alice in Chains is is the stuff that's the reason why they're as popular as they have been and they still are even now today they still are step tons tons tons of other songs on there that are better it ain't like that at all is way better so is sunshine and so is a couple others I can't think of the names of way better songs you better check your hearing I'm a singer so I know what sounds better Man in the Box is okay but it got way way overrated overplayed overrated it's a good song but it's not a great song there are other songs are so much better
The reason why Rick's interviews transcend most of what is currently available on the internet is the format. When an artist is given sufficient time to expound on their ideas, in a patient serious fashion, by a very knowledgeable fellow musician who clearly truly loves music, then they nearly always seem to open up, even if they were reluctant or somewhat guarded intitially. I believe that is why they are so enjoyable, because you really get an insight into both the creative process and what really drives that artist.
One thing that attracted me to AIC was that they're not afraid to go slow. It was those occasional slow backbeats, slow chord changes, slow-sliding melodies, perfectly parallel vocal harmonies with the slow melodies, time to let things evolve. They had the abilities to go fast and sometimes did, but not many bands have the patience to do what they do.
It's cool that you being that up. I think the layman (non players, or people with no experience playing in a band) don't really understand how difficult it is to play slow and leave that space.
@@MickeyKrieseIt’s a very interesting point. I’m a drum enthusiast and goof around doing drum covers for fun. Much to my surprise, I have found it way more difficult to cover a slow groove than it is to cover a Blink 182 song because of all the space, like you mentioned.
And while Beato pointed out that they use some nonstandard time signatures, he didn't even pick up on the key rhythmic device that propels All Secrets Known at 7:45 - the use of a "two against three" polyrhythm (otherwise known as hemiola).
I found myself tearing up around 22 minutes in when he talked about how he and Layne built their signature harmonic sound together, you could hear the emotion in his voice and you could see the look on Rick's face that he knew this was a special moment. Each one of these interviews is better than the last, and each one is perfection to begin with.
Jerry Cantrell is the perfect musician - he possesses a profound understanding of melody and harmony and musical versatility that allows him to shine both as a guitarist and a singer, gives every instrument room to breathe, knows how to write exquisit, subtle, yet powerful and intelligent lyrics, but above all, produces seemingly simple, but in fact BITCHIN' riffs that have been my soul fuel since I was a kid in the nineties. He is probably my favorite musician of the era and one of my all time favorite guitar players. I really hoped Rick he will do one with Jerry - and boy, did he deliver again! Kudos to the provider of by far best musical and music-related content on YT!
Very well said! *I spent my entire 20's learning every single note and vocal I could the days and weeks*and years* following any and every release! My Lord there are some powerful, truly medicinal, music throughout the last 30+ years of my life!!
@@lastfirst3512Not so wild. We all have people we look up to in a big way and who wouldn't envy someone making a whole bunch of money to sit and and chop it up with some of the best musicians/producers, etc. What a great life he must have.
I started on drums and loved Cantrell and Laynes work so much I was like f this I’m learning guitar so I can write riffs and sing! Sean and both Mikes are amazing too. Sean’s drumming is extremely underrated as is mikes bass playing and bass tone
@@khall187 I’m still bitter about what _Hatefield_ said about Layne Staley while on stage back in the day. He deserved every can/bottle that was thrown at him that day. I understand the bands sort of made amends but I can’t let it go. I’ve tried.
Jerry Cantrell’s demeanor is so infectious - he is so professional, and yet he has absolute rockstar DNA. I love his outlook on the creative process as well as the industry itself. What an icon 🙌
Really glad to hear him mention Mike Starr. The human side of his loss was tragic but I also felt his loss as a musician was a such a punch in the gut and maybe somewhat understated. Dude really had a unique voice as a player and really held up his side of the triangle that Jerry spoke about. Rest in Peace, Mike. 🕊️
This is a dying breed - musicians that have a sound, longevity, relevance and work ethic doing rock music. It's basically Jerry Cantrell, Zakk Wylde and maybe only one or two others.
Recently my son said to me, 'almost all of those grunge guys are gone'. It struck me that this wasn't his era, it wasn't the music of his generation, and it still struck him like that.
Don’t get me wrong, the Seattle scene gave us some great bands but Alice In Chains rules over them all as far as I’m concerned due to Jerry and Laynes abilities in weaving glorious yet haunting harmonies. Fantastic interview, Rick. Tank you, thank you, thank you.
100%. Seattle native born and raised, I am so grateful I got to live and experience the rich history of music from this (and surrounding) areas like U-men, the Melvins, Unwound, Soundgarden, Gruntruck, Tad, etc but Alice In Chains have always sat atop the PNW throne. Jerry is a rolodex of quality riffs, imo his songwriting is better now than ever. Glad Rick highlighted Check My Brain.. for anyone who thinks AiC ended w/ Layne and hasn't bothered to listen to their more recent stuff: listen to Check My Brain, Hollow, The One You Know, A Looking In View, etc, etc. William Duvall is one of the most underrated frontmen in all of rock these days, it's not even up for debate... these guys put on one seriously tight live show!
@@HellzDrifter He posted it as such. "as far as I'm concerned" is a statement of opinion. The problem is all the people who think their opinions about music are not opinions and that some bands are inherently "better" than others. I get calling people like that out, but this guy doesn't deserve your comment. His post is properly worded.
@@HellzDrifter What the hell are you talking about? There are no facts. Just his opinion and he stated it as such. "Seattle gave us some great bands..." Opinion. Subjective. "AIC rules over them all" Opinion. Subjective. "Jerry and Layne's abilities in weaving glorious yet haunting harmonies". Opinion. Subjective. NONE of those things are facts. They're all opinion. And him saying "as far as I'm concerned' shows he understands this. I don't think you do though.
'Three big ones from Seattle' - Heart, Hendrix and .........Queensryche. The more I watch Jerry, the more humbled I am by his candour and professionalism for his craft and musical lineage /,,/ What a guy!!
Not trying to be a smart-aleck, but I'd suspect he feels most all of them to some degree at those moments, from abject sadness & rage to pure joy & gratitude.
@@docvader82 The first time I ever heard AIC was as a kid playing “ATV Offroad Fury”. Doing freestyle tricks while getting some air with “Them Bones” blasting was a feeling like no other, no matter how minor/petty that sounds… especially when playing/listening to it during a hurricane in Florida before the power goes out. lol Come to think of it, the entire ATV/MX game series had a five star soundtrack.
One of the greatest guitar players, riff masters and music makers of a generation. One of the best music interviews for us all to understand the nuts and bolts. Keep up the great work Rick and Jerry!
I’m from Seattle I was telling a kid wearing an Alice In Chains T Shirt how I saw them live in the early 90s at a bar and this kid was so impressed. Alice was by far my favorite local band and back then that was saying something.
That's an awesome story! My teen son walked in one day while I had AIC Unplugged on RUclips. He stopped and said, "Who is that?" I was so stoked to say, that's Layne Staley and AIC. He said he asked because he thought he kind of sounded like Kurt. I think all kids today should know AIC as well as they know Nirvana and Kurt. I force fed him every AIC song and performance that I could. They've gotta live on. I made both my sons watch AIC Live at the Moore and Unplugged. I wish I could've seen them live, so bad, but I was too young to travel and go to concerts at the time and my friends had bad taste in music and weren't into them. So great that you got to see them!
The joy in Jerry at the end describing the guitarists who influenced him (and how and why) is so genuine. I hope Jerry knows how much he touches us the way Angus, Jimmy, Jimi, Tony, and David touched him.
I was fortunate enough to be able to play with Jerry Cantrell one time. Was able to tell him how much of an inspiration he's been for me as a guitarist and songwriter. He's such an incredibly creative songwriter. A generational talent.
Layne could obviously never be "replaced", but the fact that they carry on and manage to make material that sounds like AIC is incredible, and a testament to the prowess of this man.
AiC is my favorite band of all time. Period. I want to like the Duvall stuff but I just can't. His vocals stick out like a sore thumb. The music is good and it makes it worse to me because when you imagine Layne singing it it would be epic. I don't mind that they continue to make music and I'm glad they're happy doing it but it's not AiC.
@@sumo-ninja 100% agreed. Wish they would have searched longer to find a better lead singer who captured the base AIC "sound" (referring to Layne's vocals + Jerry's guitar tone + Sean's drum sound). Its very rare and difficult but AC/DC, Genesis and maybe Van Halen (although Roth was better than Hager in my humble opinion). Nevertheless, I am extremely grateful Jerry stuck it out and is still going. The music is still amazing (even if we can agree William's singing is not anyway as good as it was in the Layne era). Maybe someday AIC will find a proper replacement of Layne but the friendships and connections are so deep I doubt it (Jerry and William have been friends since the mid-late 90's I think)
DuVall has no charisma imho. You can be the best singer in the universe (just saying) but if you're not charismatic it doesn't really work. Layne had it all.
His ability to describe or relate his views or ideas on everything from stories to how a song is created makes so much sense to me when he’s explaining it in interviews. His playing is the same way in his songs. Total low key genius.
If I see any Cantrell content, or even any AiC content, I immediately click. And Jerry NEVER disappoints. He is such a great interviewee, mostly just because he seems like such a likeable, approachable guy. Love the video! Love AIC.
I loved the sound of this guy’s guitars and vocals since Facelift dropped and I picked it up on CD and got the free VHS tape along with it lol - thank you so much for interviewing him!
Jerry and Rick, thanks so much. From a guy who can’t play a lick of music but “feels”and remembers the early 90’s like it was yesterday it means so much. Keep recording and making new music.
Ouchh...the movie Singles sucked so f.....g much. Such an atrocity (except the parts of the bands performing), awful movie. I would go back in time just to prevent such a movie to be made.
Worked his show last Friday in San Diego. We passed each other walking and I said "What up, Jerry?" He gave me a slight nod through his sunglasses and kept going... coolest moment ever. Thankful for all the music!
So awesome 😎. At least he acknowledged you. He's our Hero from way back. Very intelligent and he has kept us wanting more and more of his of his Villified Ways. He's Genius and stayed humble and the coolest guy on the Planet Earth 🌎
I was at that show. Almost front row. I will probably never return to that venue. Jerry usually plays the HOB, downtown. It’s a much better venue for sound.
We had mutual friends & used to shoot pool back in the day & it always blew me away how focused he always was. This was before cell phones or small recorders so there were times where an idea would pop into his head & he’d rush out & down the street to a studio to capture the idea. He’s misunderstood in a big way. People think he’s distant or snobby but it’s really just focused & introverted.
'I don't write all the time, but I collect all the time.' Imo a lesson there for all artists. Ran into him a few times in Seattle in the early 90s and I'm still very grateful that I was able to thank him in person for what he's added to my life.
This interview was a Masterclass. It has helped me tremendously in my path forward in music. A collector of riffs; the best guitarist in distortion we ever had. Thank You, Jerry Cantrell, Alice in Chains is timeless, and I still listen almost every day.
Quite possibly the Greatest Song Writer, Guitar Player, Musician Alive. Being interviewed by the Greatest Music Interviewer. A Legendary Moment in Time.
So grateful that Rick decided to follow this path in his life. I honestly have never seen anyone as gifted as an interviewer. It’s like his career as a musician was training for pulling experiences and discussions out of other musicians in a way that I don’t believe many, if any others could have matched. Just extraordinary. Every single conversation. If you or anyone you love is a musician, please subscribe so he can keep doing this. Thank you.
Anybody interested in playing guitar needs to listen to the entire catalog of this man. On repeat for two years. Then watch this interview, to see what it takes to be a guitar player.
Jerry is the riff monster with such amazing melody. It warms my heart to see AIC and the solo work all continue to shred. So glad to see him on your channel, Rick!
He has some good riffs .. but to be honest a lot of his stuff came from Tony Iommi . Just one example listen to the riffs in the song Angry Chair , then listen to certain riffs in Into the Void . His whole bending riff style was influenced by Iommi .
@@SJ-ty5rw What’s your point? All musicians are influenced in one way or another by other musicians. Otherwise genres wouldn’t exist. That being said, stating “a lot of his stuff came from Iommi” is objectively false. It’s evident that other bands influenced his style as well, including but not limited to Metallica, Iron Maiden, Soundgarden and Mudhoney.
Jerry will be regarded much further on as one of the greatest composers of this era, and he is one of the coolest and most down-to-earth people you can possibly meet.
Rick, you are the best. We appreciate these special interviews you are doing. These have been amazing and listening to Jerry Cantrell is an absolute treat!
The interviews on this channel are unbeatable. I am amazed that you got Thayil/Novoselic/Jack Endino, Matt Cameron and Rob DeLeo but this is like the holy grail. I really wish you could've gotten to interview Mark Lanegan while he was alive. Still, my favorites all seem to come through your studio. So grateful for you Rick. Try to get Ben Shepherd on!!! Gotta complete the Soundgarden cast!
I’m 36 years old and Alice In Chains has been my all time favorite band since I was in the first grade. My cousin used to come stay with us for the weekend and he would bring his cds and he brought Facelift one week and I was blown away then like the next week he brought Dirt and to this day there’s never been an album that comes even close to that album. I still listen to something off that album almost everyday.
You've given me a chuckle. I was 18 when I bought _Facelift,_ and 20 for _Dirt._ The thought of a couple of first graders getting into _Dirt_ almost seems like child endangerment, it's so dark. What a picture that is. 🤣
At the beginning Jerry should be saying what an honor it is to meet rick! What rick has done with this channel is absolutely incredible! Keep up the good work rick !
Jerry is one of those guys who made me pick up the guitar when I was 13 years old. I'm 51 now, and I'm still as passionate as I was 30 years ago. I'm really grateful for all his generation of guitar players, who paved the way for all the younger musicians who came after them.
Nope- you were 13 in 1986- Alice in Chains released their first album in 1989 and didn't get radio play until 1990. I knew something wasn't right when I read your post because I'm 52 and Alice in Chains didn't come out until after I graduated high school, and I had been playing guitar for about 4-5 years already. I started at about age 13, like you.
We're actually so fortunate to have Jerry Cantrell still making music
100%
It's so rare that someone like him isn't a self destructing alcoholic/drug addict. He's an all-time talent.
@@bmoneybbyHe went through it
Agreed!😊
Considering what his peers did, absolutely
He’s so underrated for his vocals too. He and Layne’s harmonies are magic.
His harmonies with Robert are also great
@@PsychoMantis308 robert who?
@@deadforever 🤣 I think he got Duvalls mixed up.
@@BUFFALO_arg hahahahahaha
@@PsychoMantis308 you mean William?
I've said this a few times about this channel but it's becoming an extremely valuable archive. Artists are given a platform to actually speak about what they do in the company of an informed, intelligent interviewer who can ask questions from an educated standpoint. It's always a joy.
great channel to gain valuable information from. who better to learn from than incredibly experienced individuals, with someone who can ask them the right questions.
And Rick gives them all the space they need. I was smiling the whole time
Yeah you gotta love how beato is just a genuinely interested old guy too. He’s fun to make fun of but a real asset and cool guy.
I'm seriously hoping Rick's interviews are being archived in the Smithsonian and/or other academic libraries. The quality and choice of musicians including headliners, studio players, songwriters, producers, etc. and their obvious pleasure in doing deep dives into their catalogs, talents, collaborations, and joys of creation are unmatched-- they recognize Rick as one of them, which brings a whole other level of communication and mutual respect to the conversation. The past 50 years have seen so much evolution in all elements of producing popular music and Rick's interviews will stick around as a primary resource.
I honestly believe that Rick is the greatest interviewer of musicians. He just loves it and it shows.
Alice In Chains has helped so many people go through their roughest days. Respect.
I’m going thru it now o can’t stop listening to them !!’n
I clicked as soon as I saw Jerry Cantrell
Same here! Yeeeeeeeeaaah!!!
Yep!
Me too
Same!
Ditto
Rick: "How many guitars do you own?"
Jerry: "Not as many as you think. About 150"
Exactly what I thought
I laughed out loud when Jerry said that. I was expecting, "maybe 15".
"And I didnt know I had that one"....amazing
😂
Hahahaha
Jerry’s riffs and melodies were the fuel that lit the fire of Layne Staley’s incredible vocals.
+ Jerry’s lyrics and backing vocals.
And Jerry's vocals
It's kind of similar to how Marciellos riffs inspired some of Iorio's best melodies in Almafuerte. Especially on an album like del Entorno.
And AIC would also be nothing without the powerhouse rhythm sections of Sean Kinney/Mike Starr & Mike Inez. Every piece of the puzzle matters for this band to be what they are.
@@HatchetMouth
Por eso son una gran banda hasta ahora. No los 'conocía' hasta hace poco tiempo pero hay canciones que me siguen volando la cabeza , así que seguiré a AIC y a Jerry en solitario ❤
This is what a true musician is. Humble and no ego. Talks only about his art. Refers to Layne with such love.
This is very romantic but it's not the reality, a lot of great and "true" musicians are wicked or stupid or both.
All respect to Jerry and AIC but I can't believe we watched the same interview. Jerry clearly has an ego!
@justinrensel8518 yeah I felt that too. He seemed humble for the most part, but a little ego at times...but then I thought fck it good for him. It's his music at the end of the day, he can do what he wants
He literally said he thinks he's better than everyone else.
@@nedgey And he's right, he's the best at being Jerry Cantrell.
The moment Rick slaps on “Check my Brain” and they both start headbanging… pure love man!
It was almost like a Bevis & Butthead 30 seconds is what I was thinking!
I felt that
Yep
@@RGB06084so true considering that Jerry laughs like Butthead lol
Needs to be a gif
Jerry mentioning Queensryche is just so amazing. I think Jerry is the most talented guy of the Grunge movement. Unmatched riff monster, songwriter, vocalist!
Chris Degarmo is super tight with Jerry! He played guitar on Drone and I think he has some added parts on Boggy Depot. He may or may not have been a part of his solo band at one point
never heard of him
@@cascaragrYou have now.
@@cascaragr Look him up now that you have. Dude's a phenomenal player
@@rawkguy4896W profile pic and album!!!
This guy is SO understated, underrated as a player and writer, and truly an American musical icon. I can't listen to him without constantly going 'Wow, that's an unbelievable musical idea executed to perfection.'
He’s really in slot of his own of mastery on creating the perfect canvas for countless legendary songs. His vocals and having the structure for other instruments to have a strong quality presence. Pure Brilliance!
How is he underrated? He’s sold millions of records and played in front of millions of people. He must be doing something right.
@@brentcollins9727 when people name the 'best' players of the last 30 years, it's guys like Morello, Slash, Hammett, Frusciante, and even Cobain and Mayer. Cantrell is better but never gets the mentions. Underrated.
@@TebowTheNextKilmer I was asking myself, how could Jerry be underrate when he is so damn great? But when you responded, I thought it was a great response. Nonetheless, a good case can be made, in the guitar community, Jerry is very well respected for his playing and especially his vocals.
@@TebowTheNextKilmer I don't know anyone who would say Cobain and Mayer are better than Jerry. If someone did say that then they need their brain checked for heavy damage. Pun intended, but seriously though.
Listening to Cantrell talk about how to build a song is like listening to Bob Vila talk about building a house. What a craftsman, damn.
That man wrote arguably the best riffs to come out of the era. A true icon of the grunge era. Rick's interviews are going to go into the library of congress one day.
Jerry and Kim Thayil.
Listening to Them Bones in the same room with the source himself. Man, that's awesome.
dude, you could see rick holding back, he was HYPED!
Rick was really "beato" here. The italian word "beato" means "blessed".
I will never forget the moment MTV debuted Man In The Box. I almost feel like that was the defining moment of my path towards being a musician. Jerry is a legend and an absolute down to earth person in real life. Alice In Chains will always be one of the greatest rock bands ever.
I remember as a 14 year old waiting all day long with MTV on in the summertime to catch that video once in a 12 hour cycle.
They are definitely one of the greatest rock bands in history. Their sound was so unique and when paired with the lyrics and vocals, created a feeling that was powerfully impactful.
Not even their best song they have so many way better ones
@@DnJar, Now they do, but that was the best on Facelift.
@SuziQ. I disagree I disagree on facelift they have some others that are much better I can't think of them right now but there's like three or four others that are much better this is not a matter of opinion it's a matter of fact it's not my fault you don't have very good hearing in your ears just because your taste is different doesn't mean anything yeah you can have your opinion the only thing is your opinion is wrong I'm a musician I'm a singer I know good from crap big difference Alice in Chains is is the stuff that's the reason why they're as popular as they have been and they still are even now today they still are step tons tons tons of other songs on there that are better it ain't like that at all is way better so is sunshine and so is a couple others I can't think of the names of way better songs you better check your hearing I'm a singer so I know what sounds better Man in the Box is okay but it got way way overrated overplayed overrated it's a good song but it's not a great song there are other songs are so much better
The reason why Rick's interviews transcend most of what is currently available on the internet is the format. When an artist is given sufficient time to expound on their ideas, in a patient serious fashion, by a very knowledgeable fellow musician who clearly truly loves music, then they nearly always seem to open up, even if they were reluctant or somewhat guarded intitially. I believe that is why they are so enjoyable, because you really get an insight into both the creative process and what really drives that artist.
One thing that attracted me to AIC was that they're not afraid to go slow. It was those occasional slow backbeats, slow chord changes, slow-sliding melodies, perfectly parallel vocal harmonies with the slow melodies, time to let things evolve. They had the abilities to go fast and sometimes did, but not many bands have the patience to do what they do.
Absolutely, the slow thing probably doesn't get enough credit. I've always loved the plodding, menacing vibe.
It's cool that you being that up. I think the layman (non players, or people with no experience playing in a band) don't really understand how difficult it is to play slow and leave that space.
@@MickeyKrieseIt’s a very interesting point. I’m a drum enthusiast and goof around doing drum covers for fun. Much to my surprise, I have found it way more difficult to cover a slow groove than it is to cover a Blink 182 song because of all the space, like you mentioned.
And while Beato pointed out that they use some nonstandard time signatures, he didn't even pick up on the key rhythmic device that propels All Secrets Known at 7:45 - the use of a "two against three" polyrhythm (otherwise known as hemiola).
👏👏👏💯💯💯
I found myself tearing up around 22 minutes in when he talked about how he and Layne built their signature harmonic sound together, you could hear the emotion in his voice and you could see the look on Rick's face that he knew this was a special moment. Each one of these interviews is better than the last, and each one is perfection to begin with.
Same.
I'm just 2 minutes in, and I knew the instant I saw this video up I wasn't going to sleep until I had watched it, obviously!!!
The primary crime now is people saying everyone is an artist.
Well said im reaching this part..still😂.
😊@@or9481
Black Gives Way To Blue has been honored 🎖
As it should.
Thank you, Rick.
Great album. Would love a remaster with more dynamic range, though
Brilliant album.
Awesome album
It’s the aftermath of ‘Dirt’ 😢
Amazing album, and so important.
@@Dumnonia Oh yeah same I love the album but it's compressed to oblivion
Jerry's chuckle of a laugh always brightens my day. He's such a cool dude!
Agreed
Jerry Cantrell is the perfect musician - he possesses a profound understanding of melody and harmony and musical versatility that allows him to shine both as a guitarist and a singer, gives every instrument room to breathe, knows how to write exquisit, subtle, yet powerful and intelligent lyrics, but above all, produces seemingly simple, but in fact BITCHIN' riffs that have been my soul fuel since I was a kid in the nineties. He is probably my favorite musician of the era and one of my all time favorite guitar players.
I really hoped Rick he will do one with Jerry - and boy, did he deliver again! Kudos to the provider of by far best musical and music-related content on YT!
Well said!!
Very well said!
*I spent my entire 20's learning every single note and vocal I could the days and weeks*and years* following any and every release!
My Lord there are some powerful, truly medicinal, music throughout the last 30+ years of my life!!
Agreed, super thoughtful intense dude, love it
Agreed
His riffs and solos would slowly reveal a pattern and taught me why things work and what option you can have
Have to say, fucking awsome artistry at its finest. Love the format.
What an honor, to be able to interview Jerry. Such a legend and just a cool guy. I envy Rick.
Envying another man at your age is wild hahaha
@@lastfirst3512Not so wild. We all have people we look up to in a big way and who wouldn't envy someone making a whole bunch of money to sit and and chop it up with some of the best musicians/producers, etc. What a great life he must have.
Hanging out with Jerry Cantrell and talking about his music is definitely way cooler than anything I have probably ever done
Jerry will never know how important he is to music history. I am so glad he is happy, healthy and pumping out music. Thank you beyond words, Rick.
Hard to tell how much this guy's work was important for me throughout my life.
Me too brother
Me too bro
I'm a drummer, but Jerry Cantrell is one of my biggest idols in music.
Thank you Rick for this interview!
It's okay, drummers can appreciate musicians.
But Jerry play guitar.
@cwrichardson3 I thought he played the triangle. LMAO I know he plays guitar. I'm a massive AiC fan
I started on drums and loved Cantrell and Laynes work so much I was like f this I’m learning guitar so I can write riffs and sing!
Sean and both Mikes are amazing too. Sean’s drumming is extremely underrated as is mikes bass playing and bass tone
Completely agree. Love Sean Kinney @@thanevakarian9762
"I miss him to death" just made me cry a little bit. RIP Layne. Great interview w/Jerry!!! Love that he mentions the Ryche btw.
This one is going straight to the top of Rick’s most watched.
Until he gets Paul McCartney
Absolutely!
@@Danjoker.or Jimmy Page
James Hetfield
@@khall187 I’m still bitter about what _Hatefield_ said about Layne Staley while on stage back in the day. He deserved every can/bottle that was thrown at him that day. I understand the bands sort of made amends but I can’t let it go. I’ve tried.
Jerry Cantrell’s demeanor is so infectious - he is so professional, and yet he has absolute rockstar DNA. I love his outlook on the creative process as well as the industry itself. What an icon 🙌
I love his laugh, it’s so Beavis and Butthead ❤
@@JojoFryrocksjust wish he'd take off the sunglasses so I could look confirm that it really is my old friend Jerry !!! Love David Jenkins
Really glad to hear him mention Mike Starr. The human side of his loss was tragic but I also felt his loss as a musician was a such a punch in the gut and maybe somewhat understated. Dude really had a unique voice as a player and really held up his side of the triangle that Jerry spoke about. Rest in Peace, Mike. 🕊️
This is a dying breed - musicians that have a sound, longevity, relevance and work ethic doing rock music. It's basically Jerry Cantrell, Zakk Wylde and maybe only one or two others.
Dave mustaine for sure
Ian Thornley from Big Wreck.
King Gizzard and the wizard lizard
@@dprice81hipster junk.
@@dprice81 Awesome band! I just played their records last nìght
So many of the '90s greats are already gone. We're thankful to still have him around. "I Stay Away" still gives me chills.
That guitar solo is crazy great song
Recently my son said to me, 'almost all of those grunge guys are gone'.
It struck me that this wasn't his era, it wasn't the music of his generation, and it still struck him like that.
Don’t get me wrong, the Seattle scene gave us some great bands but Alice In Chains rules over them all as far as I’m concerned due to Jerry and Laynes abilities in weaving glorious yet haunting harmonies.
Fantastic interview, Rick. Tank you, thank you, thank you.
100%. Seattle native born and raised, I am so grateful I got to live and experience the rich history of music from this (and surrounding) areas like U-men, the Melvins, Unwound, Soundgarden, Gruntruck, Tad, etc but Alice In Chains have always sat atop the PNW throne. Jerry is a rolodex of quality riffs, imo his songwriting is better now than ever. Glad Rick highlighted Check My Brain.. for anyone who thinks AiC ended w/ Layne and hasn't bothered to listen to their more recent stuff: listen to Check My Brain, Hollow, The One You Know, A Looking In View, etc, etc. William Duvall is one of the most underrated frontmen in all of rock these days, it's not even up for debate... these guys put on one seriously tight live show!
Personally they were my least favorite of all the big bands but still liked them a lot.
@@HellzDrifter He posted it as such. "as far as I'm concerned" is a statement of opinion.
The problem is all the people who think their opinions about music are not opinions and that some bands are inherently "better" than others. I get calling people like that out, but this guy doesn't deserve your comment. His post is properly worded.
@@HellzDrifter Actually it does. It's kind of the whole point.
@@HellzDrifter What the hell are you talking about? There are no facts. Just his opinion and he stated it as such.
"Seattle gave us some great bands..." Opinion. Subjective.
"AIC rules over them all" Opinion. Subjective.
"Jerry and Layne's abilities in weaving glorious yet haunting harmonies". Opinion. Subjective.
NONE of those things are facts. They're all opinion. And him saying "as far as I'm concerned' shows he understands this.
I don't think you do though.
I know Jerry. As a friend he’s top notch. One of the most loyal and supportive dudes on the planet.
One of those rare genuine souls. You’re very fortunate to be in his midst. ☺️
'Three big ones from Seattle' - Heart, Hendrix and .........Queensryche. The more I watch Jerry, the more humbled I am by his candour and professionalism for his craft and musical lineage /,,/ What a guy!!
I wonder how Jerry feels when he hears Layne? They made some timeless art for generations to enjoy. This episode brings me some joy
Not trying to be a smart-aleck, but I'd suspect he feels most all of them to some degree at those moments, from abject sadness & rage to pure joy & gratitude.
I was thinking that as soon as the vocals to Them Bones kicked in.
@@docvader82 The first time I ever heard AIC was as a kid playing “ATV Offroad Fury”. Doing freestyle tricks while getting some air with “Them Bones” blasting was a feeling like no other, no matter how minor/petty that sounds… especially when playing/listening to it during a hurricane in Florida before the power goes out. lol Come to think of it, the entire ATV/MX game series had a five star soundtrack.
One of the greatest guitar players, riff masters and music makers of a generation. One of the best music interviews for us all to understand the nuts and bolts. Keep up the great work Rick and Jerry!
Rick, I’ve been waiting for this video. Thank you for bringing us these interviews.
I'm waiting for him to check out Quemado by Pez, see if he can find those chords so fast.
Rest in peace Layne. Legendary. What a voice.
Can't tell you Rick how appreciative I am that you have Jerry - this guy is a national treasure! Thank you!
I’m from Seattle I was telling a kid wearing an Alice In Chains T Shirt how I saw them live in the early 90s at a bar and this kid was so impressed. Alice was by far my favorite local band and back then that was saying something.
That's an awesome story! My teen son walked in one day while I had AIC Unplugged on RUclips. He stopped and said, "Who is that?" I was so stoked to say, that's Layne Staley and AIC. He said he asked because he thought he kind of sounded like Kurt. I think all kids today should know AIC as well as they know Nirvana and Kurt. I force fed him every AIC song and performance that I could. They've gotta live on. I made both my sons watch AIC Live at the Moore and Unplugged. I wish I could've seen them live, so bad, but I was too young to travel and go to concerts at the time and my friends had bad taste in music and weren't into them. So great that you got to see them!
Haha same here man
Love Jerry. One of the best songwriters of all time. When he and Layne sang in harmony it was almost haunting, very ethereal. Great interview, Rick!
This is what effortless cool looks like
dud, for real
The joy in Jerry at the end describing the guitarists who influenced him (and how and why) is so genuine. I hope Jerry knows how much he touches us the way Angus, Jimmy, Jimi, Tony, and David touched him.
Facts.
I was fortunate enough to be able to play with Jerry Cantrell one time. Was able to tell him how much of an inspiration he's been for me as a guitarist and songwriter. He's such an incredibly creative songwriter. A generational talent.
My favorite player to come out of the grunge era. Jerry rules.
7:40 Jerry just jamming to his own riff is just pure gold. What a legend.
Listening to him talk about Layne was so beautiful. I don’t think anyone wishes he were still around as much as Jerry.
This is the first extended interview with Jerry that I have encountered. He's just as deep and interesting as I hoped.
Check out his Icons episode on Gibson TV if you haven’t already.
@@tblx2675Was going to say this. Excellent interview.
Such a soulful person
Jerry is MY guitar hero!!!
Hell yeah man!
No!! He's MINE!!!
@@grayesmith9774 🤣🤣🤣 We gotta figure out a way to share!!
As a huge Alice in Chains fan, this is such a treat. Thank you Rick 🫡
Layne could obviously never be "replaced", but the fact that they carry on and manage to make material that sounds like AIC is incredible, and a testament to the prowess of this man.
And Duvall is such a good fit, he is a character made with AIC material imho.
AiC is my favorite band of all time. Period. I want to like the Duvall stuff but I just can't. His vocals stick out like a sore thumb. The music is good and it makes it worse to me because when you imagine Layne singing it it would be epic. I don't mind that they continue to make music and I'm glad they're happy doing it but it's not AiC.
@@sumo-ninja 100% agreed. Wish they would have searched longer to find a better lead singer who captured the base AIC "sound" (referring to Layne's vocals + Jerry's guitar tone + Sean's drum sound). Its very rare and difficult but AC/DC, Genesis and maybe Van Halen (although Roth was better than Hager in my humble opinion).
Nevertheless, I am extremely grateful Jerry stuck it out and is still going. The music is still amazing (even if we can agree William's singing is not anyway as good as it was in the Layne era). Maybe someday AIC will find a proper replacement of Layne but the friendships and connections are so deep I doubt it (Jerry and William have been friends since the mid-late 90's I think)
DuVall has no charisma imho. You can be the best singer in the universe (just saying) but if you're not charismatic it doesn't really work. Layne had it all.
His ability to describe or relate his views or ideas on everything from stories to how a song is created makes so much sense to me when he’s explaining it in interviews. His playing is the same way in his songs. Total low key genius.
This was my Jerry growing up. Alice in chain was the sound track of my youth. I still can’t believe he’s on the show right now. ❤❤❤
Jerry and Alice In Chains are a gift to all music fans.
Alice's self titled album is an unsung masterpiece. Their most unique stuff. Its unmistakably them.
If I see any Cantrell content, or even any AiC content, I immediately click. And Jerry NEVER disappoints. He is such a great interviewee, mostly just because he seems like such a likeable, approachable guy. Love the video! Love AIC.
I loved the sound of this guy’s guitars and vocals since Facelift dropped and I picked it up on CD and got the free VHS tape along with it lol - thank you so much for interviewing him!
It's refreshing to see the real thing once in awhile. That was terrific, Rick.
And it's great to listen to Real Thing... just as the rest of Facelift, too. :V
Jerry and Rick, thanks so much. From a guy who can’t play a lick of music but “feels”and remembers the early 90’s like it was yesterday it means so much. Keep recording and making new music.
listening to this makes me really miss bands like Mother Love Bone and the Screaming Trees...and movies like Singles. That was such a unique time.
LOVE Singles. ❤️
I was in college when all this broke huge. It was basically the soundtrack to the most important 6-7 years of my life.
I have the Singles soundtrack in my car...in CD form. Download what??
Ouchh...the movie Singles sucked so f.....g much. Such an atrocity (except the parts of the bands performing), awful movie. I would go back in time just to prevent such a movie to be made.
@@MLCrow Talking about the soundtrack, not the actual movie.
Jerry Cantrell is a legend!! Glad you got to interview him. I really enjoyed it.
Worked his show last Friday in San Diego. We passed each other walking and I said "What up, Jerry?" He gave me a slight nod through his sunglasses and kept going... coolest moment ever. Thankful for all the music!
That is fucking cool!
So awesome 😎. At least he acknowledged you. He's our Hero from way back. Very intelligent and he has kept us wanting more and more of his of his Villified Ways. He's Genius and stayed humble and the coolest guy on the Planet Earth 🌎
Nice that you talked to him like a hood.
I was at that show. Almost front row. I will probably never return to that venue. Jerry usually plays the HOB, downtown. It’s a much better venue for sound.
Teh ghey 🤦
We had mutual friends & used to shoot pool back in the day & it always blew me away how focused he always was.
This was before cell phones or small recorders so there were times where an idea would pop into his head & he’d rush out & down the street to a studio to capture the idea. He’s misunderstood in a big way. People think he’s distant or snobby but it’s really just focused & introverted.
'I don't write all the time, but I collect all the time.' Imo a lesson there for all artists.
Ran into him a few times in Seattle in the early 90s and I'm still very grateful that I was able to thank him in person for what he's added to my life.
You took me right back to the 211 Club in Belltown. 💜🤘🍺
This interview was a Masterclass. It has helped me tremendously in my path forward in music. A collector of riffs; the best guitarist in distortion we ever had. Thank You, Jerry Cantrell, Alice in Chains is timeless, and I still listen almost every day.
I listen every day. I can’t say that about most other musicians. I have an 8 hour Jerry/AIC playlist. Yes, some songs are on it multiple times.
4:37
'Jerry, that is so cool' (About the Check my Brain riff).
'It is, yeah'.
LEGEND.
It sounds fantastic
Quite possibly the Greatest Song Writer, Guitar Player, Musician Alive. Being interviewed by the Greatest Music Interviewer. A Legendary Moment in Time.
So grateful that Rick decided to follow this path in his life. I honestly have never seen anyone as gifted as an interviewer.
It’s like his career as a musician was training for pulling experiences and discussions out of other musicians in a way that I don’t believe many, if any others could have matched.
Just extraordinary. Every single conversation.
If you or anyone you love is a musician, please subscribe so he can keep doing this. Thank you.
So very true.
Anybody interested in playing guitar needs to listen to the entire catalog of this man. On repeat for two years. Then watch this interview, to see what it takes to be a guitar player.
Greatest riff lord of them all. He wrote the soundtrack to my life since 1990
Dude, you must have had a hard life.
Jerry Cantrell is my favorite guitarist. Appreciate this interview!
Rick always has the best and most interesting questions when he interviews.
because he isn't a journalist with journalistic interest, but a musician
@@jonesonearthGreat comment. He understands who he is interviewing. Rick is awesome. 👍😎
Dude is such a talent. Love his perspective about not looking too far ahead or too far behind and trying to just stay in the now.
Talent but also talent.
All I can say is thank you Rick. This is as close to Christmas as it comes.
Jerry has always been a massive inspiration.
Jerry Cantrell is so consistent, everything he has put out as such a vibe to it
Jerry and Alice got me through a lot of rough times in my life. I owe Jerry major gratitude. I thank him every day for how his music helped me.
Jerry is the riff monster with such amazing melody. It warms my heart to see AIC and the solo work all continue to shred. So glad to see him on your channel, Rick!
I cannot understand how he can get such a beautiful melodic sound with so much distortion and dissonance.
He has some good riffs .. but to be honest a lot of his stuff came from Tony Iommi . Just one example listen to the riffs in the song Angry Chair , then listen to certain riffs in Into the Void . His whole bending riff style was influenced by Iommi .
@@SJ-ty5rw What’s your point? All musicians are influenced in one way or another by other musicians. Otherwise genres wouldn’t exist. That being said, stating “a lot of his stuff came from Iommi” is objectively false. It’s evident that other bands influenced his style as well, including but not limited to Metallica, Iron Maiden, Soundgarden and Mudhoney.
My favorite singer/ song writer / guitarist
Jerry will be regarded much further on as one of the greatest composers of this era, and he is one of the coolest and most down-to-earth people you can possibly meet.
Rick, you are the best. We appreciate these special interviews you are doing. These have been amazing and listening to Jerry Cantrell is an absolute treat!
@@dynamicphotography_ this is hands down, the best channel on RUclips.
The interviews on this channel are unbeatable. I am amazed that you got Thayil/Novoselic/Jack Endino, Matt Cameron and Rob DeLeo but this is like the holy grail. I really wish you could've gotten to interview Mark Lanegan while he was alive. Still, my favorites all seem to come through your studio. So grateful for you Rick. Try to get Ben Shepherd on!!! Gotta complete the Soundgarden cast!
16:20, watching two old guys head-bang warms my heart.
They are not old, they are differently young 😝
Great Interview. I have to say he looks in damn good shape for having navigated some insane work schedules and career spots. Good for him.
One of the best interviews I've ever seen with a rockstar.
I’m 36 years old and Alice In Chains has been my all time favorite band since I was in the first grade. My cousin used to come stay with us for the weekend and he would bring his cds and he brought Facelift one week and I was blown away then like the next week he brought Dirt and to this day there’s never been an album that comes even close to that album. I still listen to something off that album almost everyday.
You've given me a chuckle. I was 18 when I bought _Facelift,_ and 20 for _Dirt._ The thought of a couple of first graders getting into _Dirt_ almost seems like child endangerment, it's so dark. What a picture that is. 🤣
🤘🏻Who’s your number 2?
Im 34. My mother played facelift for me while I was in the womb.
The synchronized head bobbing at 8:00 is awesome!
It is so wholesome
So great 😊
Agreed and I’m guessing every single viewer including myself was nodding along. Impossible not to!
16:20 is better.
Thank you for an interview about songwriting from one of the most underrated songwriters of all time.
The Riff Lord, underrated?
I don’t think that word means what you think it means.
I am speechless… my musical hero! Thank you
Jerry and thank you Rick for this valuable interview
Now, this is something we need to hear. Real honest talk about life and music and how they meld. Thanks, Rick. As always, professional as hell
Hear hear!
My all-time favorite songwriter. I've been excited for this interview. 🤘🏻
rick cant seem to get that grin off his face. he’s definitely enjoying this interview awesome job again Rick.
Thank you Rick and THANK YOU Jerry!!!!
and happy birthday Ty Tabor!
Jerry Cantrell is such a great musician but he's an even better guy it seems by all accounts. Thank you Rick for this interview.
Riff lord. Genius with lyrics. Glad he is here to make music❤️🤘🏻
At the beginning Jerry should be saying what an honor it is to meet rick! What rick has done with this channel is absolutely incredible! Keep up the good work rick !
Jerry is one of those guys who made me pick up the guitar when I was 13 years old. I'm 51 now, and I'm still as passionate as I was 30 years ago. I'm really grateful for all his generation of guitar players, who paved the way for all the younger musicians who came after them.
Nope- you were 13 in 1986- Alice in Chains released their first album in 1989 and didn't get radio play until 1990. I knew something wasn't right when I read your post because I'm 52 and Alice in Chains didn't come out until after I graduated high school, and I had been playing guitar for about 4-5 years already. I started at about age 13, like you.
I think he just means people like Jerry made him pick it up. Maybe Jerry helped stoke the fires to keep the OP going. 🤷🏼♂️
@@stoneysdead689Maybe he meant it figuratively as somebody who starts playing guitar at a young age. I doubt he would forget his own age.
Afterglow was released the day I was in the hospital with my dying mother...it is indeed a special song and will forever make me think of my mother.
Thank you Rick for making this happen and respecting the special moment in time that AIC gave all of us.
I think Jerry has arguably the best solo of the 90s in Them Bones🥶