R.I.P Chris Cornell

Chris Cornell - 'Can't Change Me' (1999)

I'm still reeling about today's news. Chris Cornell, one of rocks truly magnificent talents was gone at only age 52. I couldn't believe it, I was convinced it was some sick joke. For as long as I was aware he existed, there was no one else and probably never will be, with a more perfect rock voice.

For more than 20 years, I have been a huge fan. I have lots of little memories scattered over the soundtrack of my life. It may sound over dramatic but it really is true. From singing along to Black Hole Sun with a friend in my 6th form smoking room and blasting Spoonman over the jukebox in the Rifleman pub when I was 16 to seeing him perform live in Las Vegas at the Pearl in 2007. I remember buying a Soundgarden demo single, Burden In my Hand from an old school music shop during lunch in Twickenham and sneakily listened to it on repeat through my A-level English class. I had his picture pinned up on my desk when I worked at a courier company and was over the moon when he embarked on his solo career from which this track was his first single. He proved himself a seriously convincing front man again with the Rage Against The Machine guys, that's no mean feat. London Scouser introduced me to Temple Of The Dog which won my heart, that voice made me melt. LS also had the privilege of meeting and escorting the man himself at work, remembering to ask Chris to sign a single for me which will forever be treasured.

It's with a heavy heart that I write this post but thankfully Chris will live on in the music, nothing can change that. I'm off to watch Singles now so RIP Chris, Say Hello To Heaven.