We join the world in mourning the loss of Chris Cornell, who died the evening of May 17, 2017. He was 52.

A member of AFM Local 47, Chris was a dynamic musician and one of the greatest voices of this generation. The frontman of influential ’90s grunge group Soundgarden, he went on to join two supergroups, Audioslave and Temple of the Dog, in addition to enjoying a successful solo career.

President and CEO of The Recording Academy, Neil Portnow, released the following statement on May 18:

“Chris Cornell was one of the influential originators of the 1990s Seattle grunge scene. A two-time GRAMMY^® Award winner, Chris’ dynamic stage presence and impressive vocal range made him a true rock-and-roll icon. From the international success he achieved as the founder and lead vocalist of Soundgarden, to fronting the GRAMMY-nominated supergroup, Audioslave, Chris’ extraordinary talent will forever live on and inspire fellow musicians and fans worldwide. We have lost an innovative member of our creative community, and our sincerest condolences go out to Chris’ family, friends, collaborators, and all who have been impacted by his outstanding artistry.”