I’m asking that because I always keep wondering if Jerry tried to help Layne. If he at least went to Layne’s home to check him in, even if he didn’t open the door :(
There were times the two didn’t get along, especially towards the end. There’s a radio interview (I can find it if you want) where the two were bickering. I think it’s partially because after AIC, Jerry’s solo album flew under the radar, and all people cared about was Mad Season. I don’t blame Jerry at all for being bitter over that, because his solo music was just as good.
I don’t know if Jerry went to Layne’s condo to try to help him. I know Sean did, but Layne wouldn’t answer the door. I know Mike Starr did, but Layne said he would never talk to Mike again if he called 911. Layne died the next day, and I don’t believe Mike ever overcame the guilt. I believe that guilt led to Mike’s death.
Of COURSE Jerry cared, but in the end… LAYNE didn’t. He knew he was going to die from drugs, and wanted to be alone. That’s why he isolated everyone.
Of course Layne’s actions hurt the other members of the band… but they did what they could. You can’t help an addict if they don’t want the help.
Yes, when recording “Black Gives Way to Blue,” Jerry and Sean finally got to grieve Layne’s death, even getting physically ill.
No matter what happened, the whole band LOVED Layne. Unfortunately, he was just too deep into his addiction to save. I am sure Jerry thinks of his fallen best friend every single day.
