Chris Cornell

ABOUT

Chris Cornell was an iconic American musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist for the rock bands Soundgarden and Audioslave. Born Christopher John Boyle on July 20, 1964, in Seattle, Washington, he was a pivotal figure in the development of the grunge music scene in the early 1990s. Cornell's powerful and versatile vocal range positioned him as one of the most respected singers of his generation. Over his career, he also pursued a successful solo career and collaborated on various music projects, leaving a lasting legacy in the rock genre. Tragically, Cornell passed away on May 18, 2017, but his influence on music continues to be celebrated by fans and musicians worldwide.

BEFORE FAME

Cornell's early life in Seattle was marked by a profound love for music. He started off playing drums before shifting his focus to singing and songwriting. Cornell's first major foray into music began with the formation of Soundgarden in 1984. The band's sound, characterized by heavy guitar riffs and dark, brooding lyrics, quickly gained a following. Before achieving mainstream success, Cornell worked various day jobs and honed his craft in the Seattle music scene. The release of Soundgarden's "Badmotorfinger" in 1991 and their subsequent album, "Superunknown" in 1994, catapulted them to international fame and solidified their place in music history.

TRIVIA

Cornell was not just known for his powerful voice but also for his songwriting prowess. He wrote or co-wrote many of Soundgarden's hits, including "Black Hole Sun" and "Spoonman." Beyond Soundgarden, he was the frontman for the supergroup Audioslave, which included former members of Rage Against the Machine. Audioslave's debut album went triple platinum and included hits like "Like a Stone" and "Cochise."

Cornell was known for his philanthropic efforts, including supporting the Chris and Vicky Cornell Foundation, which aims to protect vulnerable children around the world. He also had a brief stint as the lead singer for the band Temple of the Dog, a tribute to his late friend Andrew Wood.

FAMILY LIFE

Chris Cornell's personal life was as complex as his music. He was married twice; first to Susan Silver, manager of Soundgarden and Alice In Chains, with whom he had a daughter named Lillian Jean. Following their divorce, he married Vicky Karayiannis, a Paris-based publicist. They had two children, a daughter named Toni and a son named Christopher Nicholas. Cornell’s family was incredibly important to him, and he often credited them with helping him to overcome his struggles with addiction.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Chris Cornell's career was marked by collaborations with several notable figures in the music industry. In addition to his work with members of Rage Against the Machine in Audioslave, he collaborated with Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam in the band Temple of the Dog. He also worked with producers like Timbaland on his solo material, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Cornell's distinctive voice and songwriting talent have left an indelible mark on the world of rock music, influencing countless artists across various genres.

Throughout his career, Chris Cornell received multiple Grammy Awards and was recognized for his contribution to the music industry. His untimely death in 2017 was a significant loss, but his music continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the globe.