“No one sings like you anymore.”
After the news broke a year ago today, May 18, that Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell had died by suicide at the age of 52, those words from “Black Hole Sun” were often quoted by grieving fans and media outlets. It’s an easy line to gravitate to and one that holds a powerful truth we’re still feeling 365 days later. No one does sing like Cornell anymore. No one did before. No one will after. The Soundgarden, Temple of the Dog, and Audioslave frontman was a force unique to himself, an irreplaceable talent that not only helped establish Seattle as one the country’s greatest music cities but also crafted a beautiful and eclectic body of work. He gave listeners a voice to hang onto when the world felt like it had fallen on black days.
Losing Cornell still hurts and still feels unreal. But the songs he’s left us with remain a constant. We can still turn to Superunknown and Badmotorfinger and let his stirring songwriting and his seemingly impossible voice resound in our ears. He’s left behind a remarkable solo catalog, including his final solo album Higher Truth and last song “The Promise.” Cornell also famously appeared in the 1992 Seattle-set rom-com Singles, of which he also shared some of his first solo songs and instrumental compositions. We can't change that we've lost such a beautiful talent, but we can find healing in the remarkable work he left us with.
We welcome KEXP listeners to take some time to remember Cornell’s astounding legacy. Revisit some of the tributes and features from last year below.
If you, or someone you know, are in need of someone to talk to, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You are not alone.
Throwaway Style is a weekly column dedicated to examining all aspects of the Northwest music scene. Whether it’s a new artist making waves, headlines affecting local talent, or reflecting on some of the music that’s been a foundation in our region; this space celebrates everything happening in the …
As part of KEXP's remembrance of Chris Cornell on what would have been his 53rd birthday, The Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole will broadcast an alternate final setlist at 4:00 PM (PST), which was graciously provided to KEXP by Soundgarden/Pearl Jam drummer and local music fixture Matt Cameron. Below…
Today would have been Chris Cornell's 53rd birthday. Since news hit of his death in May, there's been an outpouring of love for Cornell and his music. From Soundgarden and Temple of the Dog to Audioslave and his prolific solo career, he gave generations of fans music to adopt as their own. He gave …
Word of Chris Cornell's death late Wednesday night was a blow to the music community, but for Seattle it feels even more personal. Cornell was a cornerstone artist for the Northwest. From Soundgarden to Temple of the Dog and Audioslave to his solo work, Cornell helped define the "Seattle sound" wit…
Since news came out this morning of Chris Cornell's death, the world has been reeling. As the lead vocalist of Soundgarden, Temple of the Dog, and Audioslave, Cornell's powerful voice and presence had a profound impact on the Pacific Northwest. Throughout the day, local artists have been sharing th…
You read that right. We're just as surprised to learn of his passing as you are. Chris Cornell, who was found dead in his Detroit hotel room late last night, has been a Seattle institution for decades, having formed Soundgarden in 1984 and predating in popularity nearly all of the so-called "grunge…
