Chris Cornell, the lead singer of the groundbreaking grunge bands Soundgarden and Temple of the Dog and later the rock band Audioslave, has passed away at the age of 52.

Known for his incredibly powerful voice Cornell was one of the distinct voices of the Seattle Grunge scene in the late 80s and early 90s as lead singer of Soundgarden. Covering everything from addiction, death and salvation Cornell voice made each song even more powerful. Soundgarden gained mainstream success with Black Hole Sun, Fell On Black Days, and Burden in My Hand.

After the breakup of Soundgarden in 1997, Cornell joined Audioslave with former members of Rage Against the Machine and released three albums as well as releasing a number of solo albums including a Grammy nomination for Can't Change Me on Euphoria Morning. In 2010 Soundgarden reunited to release Telephantasm and King Animal.

We mourn the loss of a truly incredible voice who helped shape the last 30 years or rock music. We among all of his fans around the world mourn and our thoughts go out to his family and friends. Rest in piece Chris.