"Rooster" by is a deeply personal tribute written by guitarist/vocalist Jerry Cantrell for his father, Jerry Cantrell Sr., who served two combat tours in the Vietnam War . Released in 1993 as the fourth single from their breakthrough album Dirt , the song explores the psychological scars of war and the difficult transition back to civilian life. The Meaning of "Rooster"
Directed by , the music video is noted for its brutal realism. Alice in Chains – Rooster Lyrics - Genius
The title refers to Jerry Cantrell Sr.’s childhood nickname, given to him by his great-grandfather because of his "cocky" attitude and hair that stuck up like a rooster's comb. The term also has military connections:
"Rooster" was a common nickname for M60 machine gunners because the muzzle flash resembled a rooster's tail. Composition and Emotional Impact