Loudwire Nights host Toni Gonzalez recently interviewed Alice In Chains singer/guitarist William DuVall and he was asked about Layne Staley’s family supporting the current incarnation of the band.
Phil Staley, Layne’s dad, recently gave his first ever interview where he discussed DuVall replacing his son.
“I’m proud of Layne, I’m proud of the group, I’m proud of their staying ability. They’re still there, they’re still touring, they’re still making records, they’re all clean, they’re all sober, they all look good. I couldn’t be prouder.”
The interviewer mentioned William DuVall doing a great job in Alice In Chains. Phil agreed, saying he had big shoes to fill.
“Yes, terrific job. Big shoes, big shoes.”
He also said, “I’m pretty biased, as far as I’m concerned there isn’t anybody that’s going to match him, but the group has done a wonderful job. William has done a wonderful job, and like I say, I couldn’t be prouder that the group is still carrying on. I love all those guys, love them. I still run texts with Jerry and Sean on the road, so we’ve been close, we are family. Always been in touch with her, my girl Susan [Silver].”
DuVall told Loudwire Nights about Phil’s support, “It means a great deal. Both Phil and Layne’s mom, they’ve always been very kind and I appreciate it so very much. It’s really great.”
DuVall has generally received a positive response, even taking a moment to enjoy a recent crowd singing “Happy Birthday” back to him at a show. “That’s such an unbelievably beautiful feeling … All you can do in the moment is kind of be in the moment, so you’re not really thinking about how profound this is,” says the singer.
