Chris Cornell Dead at 52

**UPDATE** Cornell’s death has been ruled a suicide by hanging.

One of the most recognizable voices in grunge has died. Chris Cornell, singer for Soundgarden and Audioslave was found dead just hours after a performance in Detroit. The cause of death is still to be determined, but is believed to be suicide. Cornell was 52 years old, and left behind a wife and two children.

Soundgarden were the first band from the Seattle grunge movement to be signed to a major record label. Together with Mudhoney, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and others from the Washington rock scene, the band helped create one of the most successful musical sounds of the 90’s. The group recently reunited and was reportedly working on a new album.

Cornell was also a member of Audioslave, along with members of Rage Against the Machine. In the early to mid-2000’s, they released three full length albums. The band was driven by Cornell’s signature vocal style. He was also a member of Temple of the Dog, side projects with other members of the grunge music scene, and released several solo projects.