Chris Cornell

Musician

July 20, 1964 – May 17, 2017

Chris Cornell, an American musician, singer, and songwriter has passed away suddenly at the age of 52 according to multiple reports.

Cornell was a talented musician and lead singer for the Seattle grunge group Soundgarden and later Audioslave. His powerful vocals and song writing helped propel Soundgarden into mainstream success emerging as one of the biggest bands to come out of the grunge movement alongside others like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains.

Cornell served as the principle songwriter for Soundgarden. The band broke through to mainstream radio with the 1994 album Superunknown. The record debuted at number 1 on the Billboard 200 and featured Grammy winning hits “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman”.

After Soundgarden disbanded in 1997, Cornell launched a solo career before joining the super group Audio Slave in 2001. The band was a success releasing 3 albums over the span of 6 years. In 2007 they broke up and Cornell and Soundgarden reunited in 2010.

Throughout all of his musical ventures, Cornell released a total of 14 studio albums and 1 live album during his career.

Cornell was deeply involved with philanthropy. Alongside his wife, they founded the “Chris and Vicky Cornell Foundation”. The foundation aims to help children facing challenges including homelessness, poverty, abuse, and neglect. In March of 2017, Chris released the single “The Promise” on iTunes with all proceeds going to the International Rescue Committee, a global humanitarian aid, relief, and development non-governmental organization.

Cornell is survived by his wife Vicky, two daughters, and a son.

Following the news of his death, celebrities took to social media to express their condolences.

Shocked and saddened by the sudden death of @chriscornell. A great singer, songwriter and the loveliest man. pic.twitter.com/Hwdgst8kmg

— Elton John (@eltonofficial) May 18, 2017

Very sad news about Chris Cornell today. A sad loss of a great talent to the world, his friends and family. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/BlgxE6cJLH

— Joe Perry (@JoePerry) May 18, 2017

Chris Cornell had one of the most amazing voices in history. I am sad this morning to hear of his passing. Too young.

— Jennifer Nettles (@JenniferNettles) May 18, 2017

SO SO stunned to hear about Chris Cornell! Such a terrible and sad loss! Thinking of his family tonight! RIP

— Dave Navarro (@DaveNavarro) May 18, 2017