Mike Starr [Michael]

Mike Starr, born Michael Christopher Starr on April 4, 1966, was an American musician best known as the original bassist for the influential rock band Alice in Chains. He played a significant role in the Seattle grunge movement of the early 1990s, contributing to the band's distinct sound that blended heavy metal and alternative rock. Starr was a key contributor to their groundbreaking debut album, *Facelift* (1990), which featured hits like "Man in the Box." He also played on the band's critically acclaimed follow-up, *Dirt* (1992), which solidified their status in the rock genre with tracks such as "Would?" and "Them Bones." Starr's musicianship and distinctive bass style were integral to the band's identity during its formative years. However, he departed from Alice in Chains in 1993 due to personal struggles, including substance abuse, which later became a significant aspect of his life narrative. He also appeared on the reality TV show *Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew* in 2008, highlighting his battles with addiction. Starr's impact on music endures through his contributions to Alice in Chains, a band that remains influential in rock music, especially within the grunge genre. He passed away on March 8, 2021.