Soundgarden celebrated their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in a memorable ceremony featuring notable performances and heartfelt tributes. The event took place on a Saturday, marking a significant milestone for the legendary Seattle band.
Jim Carrey Inducts Soundgarden
Actor and comedian Jim Carrey, known for his roles in various films, introduced the band. Carrey recalled hosting a 1996 episode of Saturday Night Live, where Soundgarden performed as the musical guest. He humorously questioned the band’s choice of him for their induction. “Spank you kindly, spank you all,” he addressed the audience.
During his speech, Carrey shared a personal connection to Soundgarden, stating that he requested them as musical guests during his SNL episode. He proudly mentioned receiving Chris Cornell’s Fender Telecaster guitar, which holds significant sentimental value for him. “When the Seattle music scene exploded, it resurrected rock & roll for me,” Carrey expressed.
Tributes and Performances
Following Carrey’s heartfelt introduction, Cornell’s daughter, Lily, joined the stage to honor her father’s legacy. She expressed her joy in witnessing her dad’s passion for music and its impact on others. “I know how much purpose that gave him,” she highlighted.
Seattle’s Musical All-Stars Unite
The ceremony featured an impressive array of Seattle talent, as drummer Matt Cameron promised a “Seattle-centric” performance. Musicians such as Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, Alice in Chains’ Jerry Cantrell, and Brandi Carlile joined the surviving members of Soundgarden for a series of iconic songs, including “Rusty Cage” and “Black Hole Sun.”
Messages from the Band Members
- Kim Thayil: Reflecting on the band’s journey and their fans.
- Matt Cameron: Acknowledging Chris Cornell’s absence and his artistic legacy.
- Hiro Yamamoto: Reminded the audience of the band’s impact on a diverse audience.
“Chris Cornell, we are so missing you tonight on this stage,” Yamamoto stated, capturing the emotional atmosphere of the evening.
Special Collaborations
The ceremony also featured a moving acoustic performance by Cornell’s daughter, Toni, alongside Nancy Wilson of Heart, who sang “Fell on Black Days.” Cameron remarked that Chris would have cherished this moment, recognizing his influence on the artistic community.
The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony was a powerful celebration of Soundgarden’s legacy and the Seattle music scene. It served not only as a tribute to the band’s contributions but also as a reminder of the connections forged through music.
