Imagine a stage filled with legends, their voices and guitars weaving a tapestry of sound that pays homage to one of rock’s most iconic bands. This wasn’t just a performance—it was a celebration of legacy, a testament to the enduring spirit of Soundgarden. On Saturday, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s 2025 induction ceremony became a historic night as Soundgarden’s surviving members—drummer Matt Cameron, guitarist Kim Thayil, and bassist Ben Shepherd—welcomed a star-studded lineup to honor their legacy. Among the luminaries joining them were Brandi Carlile, Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, Alice in Chains’ Jerry Cantrell, and Taylor Momsen of The Pretty Reckless. But here’s where it gets emotional: the night wasn’t just about music; it was about remembering the late Chris Cornell, whose presence loomed large in every note played.
The performances were nothing short of electrifying. Cantrell and Momsen teamed up for a haunting rendition of ‘Rusty Cage,’ with Momsen channeling Cornell’s iconic movements in a heartfelt tribute. Then, Carlile stepped onto the stage, her powerful vibrato transforming ‘Black Hole Sun’ into a spine-tingling experience, joined by Momsen on the unforgettable chorus. And this is the part most people miss: Carlile’s inclusion wasn’t random. The Washington native has a deep-rooted connection to Soundgarden, having performed with them at the ‘I Am The Highway: A Tribute to Chris Cornell’ show in 2019, where she also tackled ‘Black Hole Sun’ and Temple of the Dog’s ‘Hunger Strike.’
The night took an even more poignant turn when Cornell’s daughter, Toni, took the stage alongside Heart’s Nancy Wilson for an acoustic version of ‘Fell on Black Days.’ It was a moment that captured both grief and celebration, a reminder of the band’s profound impact on music and those who love it.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Soundgarden’s induction into the Rock Hall didn’t come without its share of debate. Despite being nominated in 2020 and 2023, it took until 2025 for them to finally secure their place. Was the delay a reflection of the band’s complex legacy, or simply a matter of timing? Cameron and Thayil made it clear that this induction was about more than just music—it was about Seattle. ‘We wanted to keep it as Seattle-centric as possible,’ Cameron told the Seattle Times, emphasizing the importance of their roots. Thayil added, ‘We’re not just ‘rock guys’—we’re rock guys who helped shape the Seattle sound. Geography is part of our identity.’
This raises a thought-provoking question: How much does a band’s regional identity shape their legacy? And does Soundgarden’s Seattle roots make them more than just a band—but a cultural cornerstone? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Joining Soundgarden in the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class were The White Stripes, Bad Company, OutKast, Cyndi Lauper, Chubby Checker, and Joe Cocker, each bringing their own unique contributions to the world of music. But it was Soundgarden’s night that left an indelible mark, a reminder of the power of music to unite, heal, and inspire. Watch the performance below and decide for yourself: is this the ultimate tribute to a band that defined an era?
Soundgarden
feat. Jerry Cantrell, Brandi Carlile, & Taylor Momsen
Black Hole Sun
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2025
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