The vocal powerhouse was found overnight Wednesday at Michigan’s MGM Grand Detroit hotel sprawled out on the bathroom floor after a request was made to a family friend to check on the singer by his concerned wife, Vicky Karayiannis. Cornell had just wrapped up a sold out performance only hours before.
Unraveling Musical Myths in general does not cover news concerning genres outside of Classical Music and Opera – but for Cornell, I will make the exception.
I have always found myself in awe of the astonishing vocal range exhibited by Chris and enamored by his signature raspy flavor.
Cornell was much admired among his peers for these same qualities. I can explicitly recall sitting backstage at a concert with several legendary rock n’ roll musicians and their respective band mates, discussing the genres’ ultimate voices. The topic arose as to who would be the dream replacement for a frontman – I recall many names circulating the group – until I suggested Chris Cornell. There was an audible gasp of recognition from everyone in the room…unanimous nods of agreement..and the quiet chanting of Chris…yes…Chris!
It was as if I had uttered the name of someone unsurpassable…with those two words now spoken, the debate was over.
He will be missed.
Listen below to one of my favorite acoustic performances by the rock legend, Audioslave’s “Like a Stone.”
Rest In Peace, Mr. Cornell.
Further Reading:
If suicide is indeed the cause of death for Mr. Cornell, the musician is far from alone. Many a famous musician has struggled with issues of mental health and attempts at taking their own life. You may be surprised at just how many: read "Suicides, Schizophrenia and Syphilitics" here at Unraveling Musical Myths to discover which of your favorite composers famously struggled with depression.-Rose.
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