Alice in Chains, the legendary grunge band from Seattle, has announced the sudden cancellation of their entire 2025 tour due to a medical emergency involving their longtime drummer, Sean Kinney. The unexpected development unfolded just before the band was set to kick off the tour with a performance at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut.
According to official reports, the incident took place during a pre-show soundcheck, causing alarm among crew members and leading to an immediate halt in preparations. In a brief statement shared on the band’s social media platforms, the group cited a “non-life-threatening medical emergency” as the reason for pulling the plug on the entire tour.
Fans who had already arrived at the venue were left disappointed as the news was announced less than an hour before the scheduled showtime. The band offered their sincerest apologies and confirmed that full refunds would be available at all points of purchase, reassuring fans that more updates would follow as they became available.
Sean Kinney, a founding member of Alice in Chains, has been at the heart of the band’s sound since its formation. Known for his intense, dynamic drumming style, Kinney’s rhythms helped shape iconic tracks such as “Man in the Box,” “Would?” and “Rooster.” His presence has been irreplaceable for over three decades.
The 2025 tour was highly anticipated, marking a full return to the stage after a relatively quiet 2024, with just one live performance. The band had lined up a string of headlining shows and festival appearances across the U.S., including stops in New Jersey, Ohio, Tennessee, Alabama, and Florida.
The future of these appearances is now uncertain. While the band hasn’t provided detailed updates on Kinney’s condition or whether some dates could be rescheduled, all scheduled shows have currently been marked as canceled. Fans are particularly curious about the band’s planned performance at the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival and the MMRBQ in New Jersey.
Alice in Chains is also booked to play in the UK on July 5 at the historic “Back to the Beginning” concert in Birmingham. That show, which features Black Sabbath’s final appearance, has garnered global attention. Whether the band will still be able to make that date remains to be seen.
Over the years, Alice in Chains has shown remarkable resilience, having endured personal losses and changes while continuing to make music that resonates with old and new generations. The band and their fans now rally around Kinney, whose drumming has always been a core part of their identity.
As of now, no further details have been shared about Kinney’s specific condition. However, support has been pouring in from the music community, with well-wishers hoping for a full and speedy recovery. The band promised to provide updates when available, and fans around the world await news with hope and concern.
