An Open Letter from Chris Cornell.
To my Soundgarden brothers, my Audioslave family, our dedicated fans, and the worldwide rock community,
As I write these words, I’m pondering on the wonderful journey that music has led me on. From Seattle’s raw rehearsal spaces to the world’s largest stages, I’ve lived a life full with song, energy, and passion. None of this would have been possible without the love, support, and belief of those who stood by me—the musicians with whom I’ve shared the stage, the fans who carried us, and the community that welcomed us home.
To my Soundgarden family, you were there from the start, when we were simply a group of dreamers attempting to sculpt the cacophony in our hearts. We worked together to create something unique, fierce, and long-lasting. You provided me a canvas for my voice and lyrics, and in exchange, I gave you everything I had. What we created together will remain a part of who I am.
Thank you, Audioslave brothers, for starting a new chapter with me. We crossed boundaries, pushed ourselves, and developed a sound that stood on its own while honoring the roots we all brought to the table. In those songs, I discovered another method to convey my narrative and connect with the world.
To the fans, you’ve been the steady beat behind everything. You got us through the highs of accomplishment and the lows of difficulty. Every performance, record, and note was meaningful because you were there—listening, singing, and feeling it alongside us. You made our song bigger than its pieces. For this, I am eternally grateful.
And to the entire rock community—bands, artists, listeners, and dreamers—you created the climate in which I could flourish. Rock was never just about the music; it was about connection, rebellion, honesty, and healing. You gave me the freedom to pour my heart out in every phrase, scream, and whisper.
None of this was ever solely about me. It was about us—every chord struck in unison, every song that became a shared memory, and every moment when music screamed more than words ever could.
I look back with gratitude. As I look forward, I know that the music will live on—not just on recordings or concerts, but in the hearts of everyone who ever believed. Thank you for giving me a life characterized by sound and love.
Forever yours.
Chris Cornell