No Excuses

"No Excuses" is the lead single off American grunge band Alice in Chains's second EP, Jar of Flies (1994). The song's sound (and that of the entire EP) is a departure from some of the band's better-known, heavier work. Jerry Cantrell's subtle guitar riffs built around suspended chords (as well as Sean Kinney's soft, syncopated drumming) help lend an unusually airy feel to the song. It was written by Jerry Cantrell about his unstable relationship with band vocalist Layne Staley. "No Excuses" found moderate airplay on alternative rock radio and is considered a grunge staple. Although Alice in Chains fared well on mainstream rock radio, "No Excuses" is the only Alice in Chains top 50 song and their only song to hit number one on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The song is featured in the video game Guitar Hero: Metallica. The music video for "No Excuses" was released in 1994 and was directed by Matt Mahurin, who had previously directed the "Angry Chair" music video for the band. The video features actor Max Perlich.

[Verse 1] It's alright, there comes a time Got no patience to search for peace of mind Layin' low, wanna take it slow No more hidin' or disguisin' truths I've sold [Chorus] Everyday it's somethin' Hits me all so cold You find me sittin' by myself No excuses, then I know [Verse 2] It's okay, had a bad day Hands are bruised from breakin' rocks all day Drained and blue, I bleed for you You think it's funny, well, you're drownin' in it, too [Chorus] Every day it's somethin' Hits me all so cold You find me sittin' by myself No excuses, then I know [Guitar Solo] [Verse 3] Yeah, it's fine, we'll walk down the line Leave our rain and cold, trade for warm sunshine You, my friend, I will defend And if we change, well, I'll love you anyway [Chorus] Everyday it's somethin' Hits me all so cold You find me sittin' by myself No excuses, then I know