Musicians & Composers · 21st Century
Chris Cornell’s Last Words
“I am just trying to feel good enough to perform.”— Chris Cornell, May 18, 2017
Who Was Chris Cornell?
Chris Cornell was the lead singer of Soundgarden and Audioslave, one of grunge's most iconic vocalists known for his four-octave vocal range.
The Final Moments
Cornell died by suicide in his Detroit hotel room after performing a Soundgarden concert.
Are These Words Verified?
His wife Vicky Cornell reported this from their final phone call minutes before his death. The statement is documented in police reports and her public interviews, though it was a phone conversation not in-person last words.
Sources
- firsthand Vicky Cornell witness account
- archive Detroit Police Department investigation
Legacy
Cornell is remembered as one of rock's greatest vocalists; Black Hole Sun is one of the defining songs of the 1990s.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Chris Cornell’s last words?
“I am just trying to feel good enough to perform.”
How did Chris Cornell die?
Chris Cornell died on May 18, 2017 at the age of 52. Cause of death: Suicide.
Were Chris Cornell’s last words documented?
His wife Vicky Cornell reported this from their final phone call minutes before his death. The statement is documented in police reports and her public interviews, though it was a phone conversation not in-person last words.