Alice in Chains Cancels Tour Due to Sean Kinney’s Health Concerns

Alice in Chains, the iconic grunge band from Seattle, has announced the cancellation of their highly anticipated upcoming tour. The decision, revealed on the band’s social media platforms on Saturday, stems from medical advice concerning the health of their drummer, Sean Kinney.

The band’s official statement conveyed their regret and emphasized Kinney’s well-being as the paramount concern. "After careful consideration and following the advice of medical professionals, we have made the decision to cancel our remaining upcoming festival performances and the Alice in Chains headline shows," the statement read. "While we were all eager to return to the stage, Sean’s health is our top priority at this moment."

While the band refrained from disclosing Kinney’s specific diagnosis, they assured fans that the issue necessitates immediate attention and that his long-term prognosis is positive. The statement concluded with an expression of gratitude for the fans’ understanding and unwavering support during this challenging period.

The news of the tour cancellation elicited an outpouring of well-wishes from fans across social media. The comment sections on platforms like Instagram were flooded with messages of support for Kinney and praise for the band’s decision to prioritize his health above all else.

One fan commented, "Get well Sean! The stage will still be there when you’re better and so will the fans." Another added, "Love to see a band that respects its members enough to put the most important things first. Respect. Best wishes to Sean."

The cancellation follows a recent incident where the band was forced to cancel their concert at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Montville, Connecticut, on May 8. During the soundcheck, Kinney experienced what was described as a "non-life-threatening medical emergency." The Connecticut show would have marked the band’s first performance together in over a year, since their appearance at the Sick New World festival in Las Vegas in April 2024.

In addition to the headline tour, Alice in Chains has also canceled their scheduled appearances at several prominent music festivals, including MMRBQ, Sonic Temple, and Welcome to Rockville. Currently, the band’s website lists only one upcoming performance: a slot during Black Sabbath’s final concert in the United Kingdom in July. The status of this performance remains uncertain given Kinney’s health situation.

Alice in Chains has had a long and storied history. Formed in Seattle in 1987, the band quickly became a cornerstone of the grunge movement alongside bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden. The original lineup consisted of Kinney on drums, Jerry Cantrell on guitar and vocals, Mike Starr on bass, and the late Layne Staley on lead vocals.

Over the years, the band has undergone lineup changes. Mike Starr, the original bassist, was replaced by Mike Inez. Following the tragic death of Layne Staley in 2002, William DuVall joined the band as co-vocalist alongside Jerry Cantrell.

Despite the challenges and tragedies, Alice in Chains has persevered, continuing to create music and perform for their dedicated fanbase. Their discography includes several critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including "Dirt," "Jar of Flies," and "Alice in Chains." The band’s music is characterized by its dark and introspective lyrics, heavy guitar riffs, and the distinctive vocal harmonies of Staley and Cantrell (and later, DuVall and Cantrell).

The band has achieved significant success throughout their career, selling over 30 million records worldwide. They have received 11 Grammy nominations and were ranked number 34 on VH1’s "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock" special.

The news of Sean Kinney’s health concerns has undoubtedly saddened fans worldwide. Kinney has been a vital part of Alice in Chains since its inception, providing the rhythmic backbone for the band’s signature sound. His contributions to the band’s music have been invaluable, and his presence on stage is an integral part of the Alice in Chains experience.

While the cancellation of the tour is disappointing for fans who were eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see the band perform live, the overwhelming sentiment is one of support and concern for Kinney’s well-being. Fans are united in their hope for his speedy recovery and return to the stage.

The band’s decision to prioritize Kinney’s health speaks volumes about their commitment to each other and their respect for their bandmate. In an industry often driven by commercial pressures, Alice in Chains has demonstrated that the health and well-being of its members are of paramount importance.

The future of Alice in Chains remains uncertain at this time. It is unclear when Kinney will be able to return to drumming, and the band has not announced any plans for future performances beyond the potential Black Sabbath show in July. However, fans remain hopeful that the band will eventually be able to resume touring and recording.

In the meantime, fans are encouraged to send their well-wishes to Sean Kinney and to support the band during this difficult time. The legacy of Alice in Chains is secure, and their music will continue to resonate with fans for generations to come. The outpouring of support for Kinney and the band underscores the deep connection between Alice in Chains and their loyal fanbase. The hope remains that Sean Kinney will make a full recovery and that Alice in Chains will once again grace stages around the world, delivering their unique blend of grunge and hard rock to their legions of devoted followers. The fans are ready when Kinney is. His health and well being is what matters most.