A tribute concert has been planned to honor the life and achievements of singer and songwriter, Chris Cornell. Cornell committed suicide in 2017, becoming yet another celebrity to succumb to mental illness in recent years. Mental health and the impact it has on society has been a very important discussion topic as of late, as depression and addiction have played a role in the death of many celebrities. This includes idols such as Robin Williams, Kate Spade and recently Mac Miller.
Chris Cornell was the singer for well known rock band Soundgarden, along with being one of the creative and literal voices behind many other groups. Soundgarden became well known in the early 1990s for its revolutionary instrumentals and cutting lyrics. The band’s album Superunknown in 1994 brought the group, and Cornell, worldwide acclaim and included the massive hit “Black Hole Sun.” Following Soundgarden’s break up in 1997, Cornell spent his time on a variety of other bands, finding success in his solo material and with his new band Audioslave.
The remaining members of Soundgarden and Audioslave will be performing at the tribute concert, along with various other rock bands who wish to honor Cornell’s memory. The other bands performing include legendary rock bands Metallica and Foo Fighters. The groups wish to honor a man who has influenced the lives and careers of many musicians and had helped many during his lifetime. Another notable act set to perform is singer and songwriter Ryan Adams. Adams has been a major music influencer for decades, collaborating with many of the world’s most well known artists.
The event will be hosted by comedian Jimmy Kimmel and all proceeds from the event will be given to the Chris and Vicky Cornell Foundation and the Epidermolysis Bullosa Medical Research Foundation (EBMRF). The Chris and Vicky Cornell Foundation was founded in 2012 by Cornell and his wife in order to give underprivileged children a chance at a better life. The foundation focuses on providing shelter and resources for homeless children around the world. It originally began as a charity made to help the homeless children of Seattle, Chris’ hometown, but soon grew to help people all over. The EBMRF is a foundation dedicated to finding a cure for the disease Epidermolysis Bullosa. EB is a degenerative skin disease that leaves its victims with large open sores across their body, causes deformation and prevents growth. Cornell was passionate about helping others and it shows in the charities that are being supported in his honor. The show will take place on January 16th 2019 at The Forum in Los Angeles. Tickets will go on sale starting on Friday, November 16th.