Tuesday, February 18, 2025

The Alice in Chains bassist Mike Inez turns 58

His solid bass lines provided the foundation for some of the band’s most iconic songs including “No Excuses” and “Heaven Besides You”

The Alice in Chains bassist Mike Inez turns 58



The Alice in Chains bassist, Mike Inez, was born Michael Allen Inez on May 14, 1966, in San Fernando, California. Inez gained recognition as a skilled bassist in the Seattle music scene of the late 1980 through his work with various local bands before catching the attention of Alice in Chains. In 1993, he joined the band, replacing their original bassist, Mike Starr.
Inez’s arrival marked a new chapter for Alice in Chains, contributing to the band’s distinctive blend of heavy metal, grunge, and alternative rock. His solid bass lines provided the foundation for some of the band’s most iconic songs, including “I Stay Away,” “No Excuses,” and “Heaven Beside You.” His versatility as a musician allowed him to seamlessly adapt to the band’s evolving sound, from the raw energy of their early work to the introspective depth of their later albums.
Throughout the 1990s, Inez’s tenure with Alice in Chains saw the band achieve commercial success and critical acclaim with albums like “Alice in Chains” (1995). However, tragedy struck in 2002 with the untimely death of lead vocalist Layne Staley, leading to a hiatus for the band.
In the years following Staley’s passing, Inez continued to pursue music, collaborating with various artists and projects. In 2005, he joined Ozzy Osbourne’s band as the bassist, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and in-demand musician. He also contributed to several other bands and projects, showcasing his adaptability and skill across different genres.
In 2006, Alice in Chains regrouped with new vocalist William DuVall, and Inez returned to the fold, reinvigorating the band’s legacy. Together, they released albums like “Black Gives Way to Blue” (2009) and “The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here” (2013), reaffirming Alice in Chains’ status as pioneers of alternative rock.
As Alice in Chains continues to tour and record, Mike Inez remains an integral part of the band’s sound and legacy, while also proving himself as one of rock music’s most accomplished bassists.

Watch Alice In Chains performing “Heaven Besides You” in MTV Unplugged, 1996



 

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