In a recent conversation with Matt Pinfield on 955KLOS, Ann Wilson spoke about the late Chris Cornell, reflecting on his deep sensitivity and how it possibly made the world too challenging for him to bear.
Wilson, whose band Heart is often associated with classic and arena rock, had close ties with the grunge movement, particularly with Cornell. She recalled her friendship with Chris, saying:
“Chris was a really complex and beautiful person – probably a little too sensitive to live in this world for that long. I just remember him being – at different times that I knew him – seeming very big and powerful and strong physically, and then at other times when he was more depressed, he would seem a lot smaller. He would just fill his physical being, or not. He was so smart, so intelligent. And cynical, sarcastic – ooh, such a biting wit.”
Discussing the grunge movement, Wilson highlighted Seattle’s unique position in the music world. She noted its remoteness and how it’s often overlooked in major tour itineraries, reflecting the self-possessed nature of Seattleites.
Dealing With Cornell’s Death
In a 2022 interview with Eamon O’Neill, while promoting her solo album ‘Fierce Bliss,’ the singer reflected on Cornell’s passing, stating:
“It was a very poignant, I guess, closure, in a way, of the circle, for sure. It pretty much knocked the wind out of everybody who knew him, because although there were hints of it over the years that he was deeply unhappy, no one expected that. So it took a minute to absorb that loss.”
Wilson’s Tribute In Music
Wilson covered Audioslave’s ‘I Am The Highway’ on her 2018 album ‘Immortal’ because it was her favorite Cornell song, resonating with its themes of dissatisfaction and alienation and reflecting her personal connection with the late rocker.
Wilson also honored her friend by covering Soundgarden’s ‘Black Hole Sun’ with Alice In Chains guitarist Jerry Cantrell at the 2018 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame ceremony.
You can watch her entire chat below.
