Kim Thayil of Soundgarden discusses potential Rock Hall performance, drawing inspiration from Nirvana’s example

Soundgarden’s Kim Thayil recently discussed the band’s potential performance at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in November. As one of the 2025 inductees, Thayil expressed the band’s interest in playing at the event, despite the absence of their late frontman, Chris Cornell.

Thayil mentioned that while they had not delved deeply into discussions about the performance, he hinted at possible collaborators based on past experiences. He referred to the Chris Cornell Tribute Concert in 2019, where they performed with artists like Taylor Momsen, Brandi Carlile, and Miley Cyrus, among others. Thayil suggested that these artists could be among the first to receive a call if Soundgarden were to perform at the Rock Hall ceremony.

Drawing inspiration from Nirvana’s induction performance in 2014, where guest vocalists like Joan Jett and Lorde performed in place of the late Kurt Cobain, Thayil hinted that Soundgarden’s performance might follow a similar format. He mentioned the possibility of having different singers join them on stage, much like Nirvana did.

Thayil also addressed the issue of releasing new material that Soundgarden had been working on before Chris Cornell’s passing in 2017. The guitarist expressed his desire to see the unreleased material come to light, despite facing legal hurdles with Cornell’s estate. He emphasized his pride in the work they had done and his hope for its eventual release.

Soundgarden’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame serves as both a moment of celebration and reflection for the band. Thayil believes that Chris Cornell would feel appreciative and thankful for this recognition, underscoring the significance of the honor for the band and their legacy.

As the ceremony approaches, fans eagerly anticipate what Soundgarden’s performance will entail and who might join them on stage. Given the band’s history of collaboration and their openness to working with various artists, the Rock Hall performance promises to be a memorable and diverse showcase of talent, paying tribute to the band’s enduring legacy and the impact of their music.

Overall, Thayil’s comments reflect the band’s enthusiasm for the upcoming Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and their commitment to celebrating their music, honoring their late frontman, and sharing their art with fans old and new. The ceremony is poised to be a poignant and powerful moment in Soundgarden’s journey, marking a pivotal milestone in their storied career.