Elton John to Play on Alice in Chains Tribute Song

Tony Award winner Elton John will play on Alice in Chains’ forthcoming tribute record to their late lead singer, Layne Staley, according to the Associated Press.

John plays piano on the album’s title track, “Black Gives Way to Blue,” written by band member Jerry Cantrell. The CD, which is the band’s first studio album in 14 years, is set for release on September 29, and also features the band’s new singer-guitarist William DuVall, along with drummer Sean Kinney and bassist Mike Inez.

John is currently represented on Broadway by his scores for Billy Elliot and The Lion King. He received the Tony Award for his score to Aida, and also wrote the score for Lestat. One of the world’s most successful singer-songwriters, his many hits include “Your Song,” “Daniel,” “Benny and the Jets,” “Philadelphia Freedom,” and “Crocodile Rock.”