Taylor Momsen recently shared an emotional tribute to Soundgarden following their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. She posted her heartfelt message on Instagram.
In her message, Momsen expressed her deep admiration for the legendary rock band and their late frontman Chris Cornell. The music has had a profound impact on her life and career.
“If Rock n Roll is the Bible, Soundgarden is the New Testament,” Momsen said. “I am honored that my friends in Soundgarden asked me to stand side by side with them to honor Soundgarden’s amazing music and influence on such an important night.”
Momsen addressed each surviving member of the band individually. She expressed her gratitude and respect for their contributions to music and culture.
“To Matt, Kim, Ben, Hiro and all the amazing members of the Soundgarden family, I am humbled to know you and to pay tribute to your music and to Chris Cornell,” she continued. “I have no words to describe my love for what you have given to me and the world, but I will cherish this moment forever, so I thank you all from the deepest place in my heart.”
She reflected on the lasting significance of the moment and her personal connection to Cornell’s legacy. “These are memories that I will hold dear and never forget. I am so proud of you. And to Chris Cornell, you are my hero, my pillar of greatness, you saved my life with your music and I am forever grateful.”
Momsen’s emotional tribute came as part of a significant milestone for the Seattle rock pioneers. The Pretty Reckless frontwoman participated in Soundgarden’s 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony on November 10, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, as reported by Louder Sound. She joined the band for a performance of “Black Hole Sun,” sharing vocal duties with Brandi Carlile to honor the late frontman.
The induction ceremony featured an impressive lineup of guest musicians who came together to celebrate Soundgarden’s legacy. Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready and Alice In Chains’ Jerry Cantrell performed alongside Momsen and Carlile, according to Rock Hall. This collaboration demonstrated the deep respect and camaraderie within the grunge community. Soundgarden’s influence extended across multiple generations of rock and metal artists, with some of the biggest names in the industry uniting to pay their respects.
The ceremony paid extensive tribute to Chris Cornell, who passed away in 2017. Chris Cornell’s daughter Toni Cornell delivered a deeply personal tribute by performing Soundgarden’s “Fell On Black Days” accompanied by Heart guitarist Nancy Wilson, as noted by Louder Sound. Following her performance, Toni expressed the emotional significance of the moment: “It’s so surreal, and I’m so honoured that I get to be here to do this for my dad. I just wish he were here to see this tremendous honour for himself.”
Actor Jim Carrey inducted the band and paid tribute to Cornell during his speech. He reflected on the late singer’s profound impact and “deeply authentic presence.” Soundgarden joined an illustrious Class of 2025 that included Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, and the White Stripes. This induction cemented their place among rock and roll’s most influential acts.
