Part 6/9:
Despite his internal battles, Staley continued to make music even during his darkest days. Friends from Alice in Chains, including Cantrell and bassist Mike Inez, noted that Staley never truly stopped writing. They would share music whenever possible, maintaining the creative spark that characterized their earlier collaborations. His artistic drive persisted, even as he became increasingly reclusive. Those who knew him mentioned that Staley occasionally ventured out, seeking moments of normalcy, such as when he briefly worked at a bar in Tokyo, embodying a desire to step outside the shadow of his fame.