Today marks what would have been legendary Soundgarden vocalist Chris Cornell’s 56th birthday. Next week, Total F*cking Godhead – The Biography Of Chris Cornell — the first biography of iconic grunge frontman, will arrive.
The 384-page tome, penned by Seattle music critic Corbin Reiff, will offer a look into the comeuppance of Cornell, and the legacy of Soundgarden. From career beginnings in the Seattle 8os post-punk scene, to the total 90s’ grunge domination. Reiff will also explore Cornell’s solo career, and his time in Audioslave.
Reiff first announced that he was chipping away at the biography back in December 2018. Reiff didn’t have the opportunity to interview Cornell, or any other surviving members of Soundgarden. Instead, he wove the story based on dozens of interview with engineers, roadies, producers, friends, peers, video directors and journalists who spent time with Cornell.
Total F*cking Godhead – The Biography Of Chris Cornell will arrive on July 28th via Post Hill Press.
Earlier today, in commemoration of Cornell’s birthday, the Chris Cornell estate released a cover of Guns N’ Roses ‘Patience’, recorded by Cornell in Los Angeles in March 2016.
“Listening to [Chris Cornell’s cover] again after so many years it was hauntingly beautiful; it brought it all back in a rush of bittersweet memories,” Vicky Cornell said in a statement. “His birthday seemed the perfect time to share this and celebrate Chris, his voice, music, stories and art.
In addition to the cover Cornell’s daughter Lily announced a new podcast, Mind Wide Open, that aims to “help destigmatize the conversation around mental health.”
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The first episode of Mind Wide Open will feature an interview with Laura van Dernoot Lipsky, author, trauma expert and founder of the Trauma Stewardship Institute.
“As someone who has suffered trauma and loss as well as struggled with anxiety and depression, I know how important it is to have a space to talk openly and without shame about these subjects,” Lily Cornell said.
