The Pretty Reckless frontwoman Taylor Momsen recently discussed her role as a frequent collaborator with major grunge bands. She shared her perspective on working with groups like Foo Fighters and Soundgarden in an interview with Loudwire.
Momsen’s comments came in response to observations about her becoming a go-to vocalist for established rock acts. This was particularly noted after her recent performances with these legendary bands.
When asked what it’s like being the “go to” singer for grunge bands like Foo Fighters and Soundgarden, Momsen offered a candid response about the nature of these collaborations.
“I haven’t really thought of it like that, but now that you point it out…I’ve been doing this awhile,” Momsen said. “And you know, I’ve become friends with these guys. I got a call and it’s my friend Pat calling me and friends like to play music with other friends.”
The singer emphasized the personal connections behind these high-profile collaborations. She highlighted how friendship drives these musical partnerships.
“That’s what it’s all about at the end of the day. It’s fun,” she continued. “At the end of the day, playing music with friends is fun, so when they call you up, you go, ‘Hell yeah.'”
Momsen’s relationship with Soundgarden runs deeper than casual collaboration. It is rooted in years of professional and personal connections within the grunge community.
Alternative Nation reported that Momsen toured with Soundgarden in 2017 as their opening act. This established a close bond with the band shortly before Chris Cornell’s tragic passing. This touring experience created lasting relationships that would prove significant in the years following Cornell’s death.
The Pretty Reckless frontwoman has since become an integral part of honoring Cornell’s legacy through various tribute performances. Alternative Nation noted that Momsen participated in a 2019 tribute show where she provided vocals for Soundgarden. This demonstrated her ability to respectfully carry the torch for the band’s iconic sound.
Most notably, Momsen is set to join Soundgarden’s highly anticipated 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame reunion lineup. Alternative Nation revealed that this emotional reunion will feature surviving Soundgarden members alongside Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, Alice in Chains’ Jerry Cantrell, and original bassist Hiro Yamamoto. This marks Yamamoto’s first onstage appearance with the band in decades.
This upcoming Rock and Roll Hall of Fame performance represents more than just a tribute. It’s a celebration of the enduring bonds within the grunge community that Momsen has become an integral part of through her authentic connections and vocal contributions to preserving the genre’s legacy.
