In a night filled with raw emotion, powerful performances, and heartfelt tributes, Soundgarden was officially inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025. The ceremony, held on November 8 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, featured an unforgettable induction speech by comedian and longtime fan Jim Carrey, alongside Lily Cornell Silver, the daughter of the band’s late frontman Chris Cornell, who tragically passed away in 2017. The surviving members—guitarist Kim Thayil, drummer Matt Cameron, and bassist Ben Shepherd—took the stage for a series of electrifying performances, joined by special guests including Taylor Momsen (The Pretty Reckless) and Brandi Carlile, delivering renditions of classics like “Black Hole Sun,” “Outshined,” and “Rusty Cage.”
Soundgarden, formed in Seattle in 1984, emerged as one of the defining voices of the grunge movement, blending heavy metal’s thunderous riffs with psychedelic experimentation and punk’s raw edge. Their groundbreaking albums, including “Badmotorfinger” (1991) and the seminal “Superunknown“ (1994), propelled them to global stardom, with hits like “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman” earning Grammy Awards and topping charts. Cornell’s soaring, anguished vocals, paired with Thayil’s innovative guitar work, Cameron’s dynamic drumming, and Shepherd’s brooding basslines, created a sound that captured the angst and alienation of a generation. Selling over 25 million albums worldwide, Soundgarden influenced countless artists across rock, metal, and alternative genres, from Alice in Chains to Foo Fighters, and helped put Seattle on the musical map alongside Nirvana and Pearl Jam.
The induction was a poignant moment, especially given Cornell’s absence. Jim Carrey, a close friend of Cornell’s and a vocal admirer of the band, delivered a humorous yet touching speech, recalling how Soundgarden‘s music “shook the foundations of my soul” and praising their authenticity in an industry often driven by commercialism. Lily Cornell Silver, representing her father’s legacy, shared personal anecdotes about growing up with the band’s music and emphasized Cornell’s enduring impact as a songwriter and mental health advocate. “Dad’s voice was a force of nature, and tonight, we celebrate not just the music, but the man who gave everything to it,” she said, fighting back tears.
The performances that followed were a testament to Soundgarden‘s lasting power. With Momsen channeling Cornell’s intensity on “Outshined” and Carlile adding her soulful touch to “Black Hole Sun,” the setlist evoked the band’s raw energy while honoring their evolution. Thayil, Cameron, and Shepherd accepted the award on behalf of the group, with Thayil reflecting, “This isn’t just about us—it’s about Chris, the fans, and the Seattle scene that birthed something revolutionary. We’re grateful to still be here, carrying the torch.”
The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, streamed live and set to air on television later this year, also celebrated other inductees including OutKast, Iron Maiden, and Mary J. Blige. Soundgarden‘s exhibit in the Hall’s Cleveland museum will feature artifacts from their career, including Cornell’s handwritten lyrics and iconic stage gear, opening to the public in spring 2026.
As Soundgarden joins the pantheon of rock legends, their induction underscores the band’s profound influence on music and culture. From the underground clubs of the Pacific Northwest to global arenas, their sound remains a beacon of innovation and intensity.
For more information on the 2025 inductees and upcoming exhibits, visit www.rockhall.com
