UPDATE: Alice in Chains announced late Friday (May 9) that they’re canceling all their upcoming concerts due to medical issues for drummer Sean Kinney.
“After careful consideration and following the advice of medical professionals, we have made the decision to cancel our upcoming festival performances and the Alice in Chains headline shows,” a statement on the band’s socials reads. “While we were all eager to return to the stage, Sean’s health is our top priority at this moment. Although the issue requires immediate attention, his long-term prognosis is positive. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and support during this time.”
PREVIOUSLY: Alice in Chains were forced to call off their planned Thursday night (May 8) show at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, after drummer Sean Kinney fell ill. According to a post on the group’s X feed, “After our soundcheck this evening at the Mohegan Sun Arena, Sean experienced a non-life-threatening medical emergency. We unfortunately have to cancel tonight’s show. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.”
At press time no additional information was available on Kinney’s condition or medical issue and a spokesperson had not returned Billboard‘s request for comment on the drummer’s prognosis. The Connecticut show was the band’s first full concert since an April 2024 appearance at the Sick New World festival in Las Vegas.
The group’s tour is slated to continue on Saturday (May 10) with a gig in Camden, New Jersey, at the MMR*B*Q at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, followed by an appearance at the massive Sonic Temple festival in Columbus, Ohio, on Sunday (May 11). AIC is also on the bill for the blowout final Black Sabbath show in Birmingham, U.K., on July 5.
Earlier this year it was announced that publisher Weldon Owen will release the journals of late AIC singer Layne Staley in the 176-page volume This Angry Pen: The Lost Journals of Layne Staley. The book, due on Nov. 11, was described by distributor Simon & Schuster as a collection of “handwritten lyrics, deeply personal poetry, stunning original artwork, rare photos, fan tributes” and more.
It continues, “For the first time, this stunning collection unveils the deeply personal and creative side of the legendary Alice in Chains frontman. Through never-before-seen poetry, raw handwritten lyrics, intimate scribblings, and heartfelt notes, Layne’s inner thoughts and emotions come to life, offering a glimpse into the mind of a musical genius who defined a generation.”
See the band’s statement below.
