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Soundgarden

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Band Timeline

1984

Formation of Soundgarden

Soundgarden was formed in 1984 in Seattle, Washington, by Chris Cornell (vocals and initially drums), Kim Thayil (lead guitar), and Hiro Yamamoto (bass). This marked the beginning of one of the pioneering bands in the grunge music scene. Originally, the band members had connections through earlier projects, and the formation of Soundgarden laid the foundation for their contributions to alternative rock.
1987

Early Releases and EPs

In 1987, Soundgarden began to establish their presence in the music world by releasing their first EP, 'Screaming Life,' through the Seattle-based independent record label Sub Pop. This release was significant as it introduced their raw grunge sound and helped them gain underground popularity. It marked the beginning of their rise within the Pacific Northwest's alternative rock scene.
1988

Debut Album and Second EP

Soundgarden released their debut album 'Ultramega OK' in 1988 through SST Records, an independent label based in Los Angeles. This album brought critical acclaim to the band and earned them their first Grammy nomination despite moderate sales. Also in 1988, they released a second EP titled 'Fopp' via Sub Pop, further defining their signature grunge sound and building momentum for future success.
1989

Major Label Signing and 'Louder Than Love'

In 1989, Soundgarden became the first grunge band to sign with a major label, A&M Records. This was a crucial step towards mainstream recognition. That year, they released their second studio album, 'Louder Than Love,' which was their first album to chart on the Billboard 200, peaking at number 108. The album included hits like 'Hands All Over' and 'Loud Love,' expanding their audience beyond the underground scene.
1991

Breakthrough with 'Badmotorfinger'

Soundgarden's third album, 'Badmotorfinger,' released in 1991, was a major breakthrough that helped popularize grunge music nationally. The album achieved commercial success, reaching number 39 on the Billboard 200 and eventually being certified double platinum. Hit singles such as 'Jesus Christ Pose,' 'Outshined,' and 'Rusty Cage' received significant radio play, laying the groundwork for the band's rising fame.
1994

Mainstream Success with 'Superunknown'

The 1994 release of 'Superunknown' marked the peak of Soundgarden's commercial and critical success. Debuting at number one on the Billboard 200, the album featured groundbreaking singles like 'Black Hole Sun' and 'Spoonman,' both of which earned Grammy Awards. The album showcased the band's expanding musical experimentation and solidified their status as a leading figure in the grunge movement and alternative rock.
1996

Exploration and 'Down on the Upside'

Soundgarden's fifth album, 'Down on the Upside,' was released in 1996 and reflected a period of musical exploration and change. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and generated popular tracks such as 'Pretty Noose,' 'Burden in My Hand,' and 'Blow Up the Outside World.' Despite its success, the band faced internal creative conflicts during this period, which contributed to forthcoming difficulties.
1997

Breakup of the Band

In 1997, Soundgarden disbanded after experiencing internal strife concerning their creative direction and exhaustion from extensive touring. The dissolution marked the end of their initial era. This breakup halted their upward trajectory but allowed members to pursue various other musical projects independently, during a period when grunge music itself was evolving and other bands were coming to prominence.
2010

Reunion of Soundgarden

After more than a decade apart, Soundgarden reunited in 2010. This reunion was significant for fans and the music community, as it brought the influential band back to the stage and studio. The band resumed touring and recording, rekindling interest in their work and contributing anew to the rock music landscape with their characteristic sound and energy.
2012

Release of 'King Animal'

In 2012, Soundgarden released their sixth studio album, 'King Animal,' under Republic Records. This album was their first studio release since reuniting and was well-received by critics and fans alike. 'King Animal' reaffirmed Soundgarden's influential presence in rock music, blending their classic grunge roots with modern elements, and showed the band's enduring creativity and relevance in the industry.
2017

Death of Chris Cornell and Second Disbandment

In 2017, Soundgarden faced a tragic turning point with the death of lead singer Chris Cornell. His passing was a profound loss to the band and the broader music world. Following this event, guitarist Kim Thayil announced in 2018 that Soundgarden had disbanded for the second time. Despite this, surviving members have occasionally collaborated for tribute events and benefit concerts, honoring Cornell's legacy and the band's impact.
2024

Legacy and Continuing Impact

Soundgarden's legacy as one of grunge music's pioneering bands remains strong into the 2020s. They were selected for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2025, underscoring their lasting influence on rock and alternative music. Their music continues to be celebrated for its innovation, intensity, and role in shaping the sound and culture of the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Albums

soundgarden_1st_album
Ultramega OK
13 tracks
1988
soundgarden_2nd_album
Louder Than Love
12 tracks
1989
soundgarden_3rd_album
Badmotorfinger
12 tracks
1991
soundgarden_4th_album
Superunknown
16 tracks
1994
soundgarden_5th_album
Down on the Upside
16 tracks
1996
soundgarden_6th_album
King Animal
13 tracks
2012
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Kim Thayil

1984

Ben Shepherd

1990

Matt Cameron

1986

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Jason Everman

1989
1990

Chris Cornell

1984
2017

Hiro Yamamoto

1984
1989

Bass guitar

Story of Soundgarden

Soundgarden: A Grunge Titan's Rise and Fall

Soundgarden, the Seattle-born rock behemoths, emerged from the Pacific Northwest's burgeoning underground scene in 1984. Founded by the powerhouse vocalist and drummer Chris Cornell, the visionary guitarist Kim Thayil, and the steady bassist Hiro Yamamoto, the band's early days were marked by a relentless drive and a sound that was as heavy as it was unique.

Cornell's switch to rhythm guitar in 1985 saw the band go through a drummer change, with Scott Sundquist and later Matt Cameron taking the reins. Yamamoto's departure in 1989 led to a revolving door of bassists, with Jason Everman and Ben Shepherd eventually filling the role.

Throughout these lineup shifts, Soundgarden's raw energy and Cornell's soaring vocals continued to define their sound. They became pioneers of the grunge movement, alongside fellow Seattle icons like Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, and Nirvana. Their groundbreaking music, characterized by a sludgy heaviness and a haunting beauty, resonated deeply with a generation.

Soundgarden's early success came with their self-released EPs, "Screaming Life" and "Fopp," which landed them a deal with the influential Seattle label, Sub Pop. Their debut album, "Ultramega OK," released in 1988 on SST Records, cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with. While commercially unsuccessful initially, the album garnered critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination, signaling the band's growing influence.

The release of their second album, "Louder Than Love," marked a significant turning point. Signed to A&M Records, Soundgarden became one of the first grunge bands to secure a major label deal, opening doors for the genre's mainstream breakthrough.

Despite their commercial and critical success, the band dissolved in 1997, leaving a lasting legacy. Their reunion in 2010 brought back the thunderous sound that had captured a generation. However, tragedy struck in 2017 with Cornell's untimely passing, leaving a gaping hole in the rock world. While Thayil announced in 2018 that Soundgarden would not continue, the band reunited for a poignant tribute concert in 2019, honoring Cornell's memory and the enduring legacy he helped build.

Cornell and Thayil, the band's unwavering core, graced every Soundgarden album, a testament to their profound creative partnership. Their influence on the world of rock music remains undeniable, and their story, a blend of artistic triumph and personal loss, continues to inspire and resonate with countless fans worldwide.

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