Get ready to relive one of rock history’s most emotional and star-studded nights—because the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has just shared official footage from Soundgarden’s unforgettable induction ceremony. But here’s where it gets controversial: while fans are celebrating, some are already debating whether this long-awaited honor truly captures the band’s groundbreaking legacy. Let’s dive in.
The ceremony itself was a who’s-who of rock royalty, bringing together Soundgarden’s surviving members—drummer Matt Cameron, guitarist Kim Thayil, and bassist Ben Shepherd—alongside original bassist Hiro Yamamoto. Joining them were iconic guest artists like Brandi Carlile, Taylor Momsen, Jerry Cantrell, and Mike McCready, among others. And this is the part most people miss: the event wasn’t just a celebration of Soundgarden’s music—it was a heartfelt tribute to their roots in the Seattle scene that shaped their identity.
One of the night’s most talked-about moments? Brandi Carlile’s haunting rendition of “Black Hole Sun,” backed by Momsen’s harmonies and the band’s powerhouse lineup. Bold claim alert: Carlile’s performance might just be the definitive tribute to Chris Cornell’s legacy—but do you agree? Let us know in the comments.
Speaking of Cornell, the ceremony took an emotional turn when his daughter, Toni, took the stage to perform “Fell on Black Days,” accompanied by Heart’s Nancy Wilson on guitar. It was a raw, poignant moment that reminded everyone of the band’s enduring impact.
Meanwhile, Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready teamed up with Momsen for a fiery take on “Rusty Cage”—though, oddly, this performance hasn’t made it to the Rock Hall’s official channel yet. A fan-filmed version will have to tide us over for now. But here’s the question: Why hasn’t this clip been released? Is it a technical issue, or something more?
In an interview with the Seattle Times, Matt Cameron shed light on the band’s vision for the night: “We wanted to keep it as Seattle-centric as possible and include some people that were there with us in the beginning.” Kim Thayil echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of their roots: “We’re not just ‘rock guys’ in Soundgarden. We’re rock guys who helped establish the Seattle scene. The geography is part of our identity—it’s who we are.”
Soundgarden’s induction marks their third nomination, following previous attempts in 2020 and 2023. But here’s the kicker: Was this honor overdue, or did it come at just the right time? Share your thoughts below.
You can stream the full induction ceremony on Disney+, and while you’re at it, check out the official performances below. And don’t forget to weigh in: Did this ceremony do justice to Soundgarden’s legacy? Or is there more to the story?
