Seattle music legends Soundgarden are reuniting for a special performance benefiting Seattle ChildrenS Hospital.The surviving members – guitarist Kim Thayil,bassist and vocalist Ben Shepherd,and drummer and vocalist Matt Cameron – will take the stage as Nudedragons,a playful anagram of their iconic band name,on December 14th at The Showbox in Seattle.
Joining them for this momentous occasion will be vocalist Shaina Shepherd. “Nudedragons will be returning to the stage, and the Showbox, for the first time in 14+ years as part of the SMooCH benefit for Seattle Children’s Hospital on Saturday, December 14,” the band announced. “Shaina Shepherd will be featured on vocals for their brief encore performance.For tickets and more info visit https://smoochforkids.com.”
This reunion marks a poignant return for the band,who have only performed together sporadically as the tragic passing of frontman Chris Cornell in 2017. They previously reunited for a Chris Cornell tribute show in 2019 and delivered powerful renditions of “Black Hole Sun” and “Searching With My Good Eye Closed” with Brandi carlile in 2021.
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As for the release of Soundgarden’s final recordings with Cornell, those remain in limbo due to ongoing legal disputes between the band members and Cornell’s estate.
Soundgarden Reuniting: Nudedragons Set for Benefit Performance
After years of silence,Soundgarden will reunite,albeit under a playful new name,Nudedragons,for a special performance benefiting Seattle Children’s Hospital.The surviving members – guitarist Kim Thayil, bassist and vocalist Ben shepherd, and drummer and vocalist Matt Cameron – will be joined by vocalist Shaina Shepherd for a brief encore on December 14th at The Showbox in Seattle. this marks a poignant return to the stage for the band who have only performed sporadically since the tragic loss of frontman Chris Cornell in 2017.
This reunion begs the question,what does this mean for the future of Soundgarden? And how will fans react to seeing the band perform again without Cornell?
To delve deeper into this exciting news,we spoke with two experts: music journalist **Angela Ramirez**,author of the acclaimed biography ”Audioslave: Beyond the black Hole Sun,” and **Dr. David Wilson**, a sociologist specializing in fan communities and cultural impact through music.
A Resurgence of Sound
World Today News: Angela, Soundgarden has been relatively silent as Chris Cornell’s passing. What prompted this reunion now, specifically for a benefit concert?
Angela ramirez: This is a powerful testament to the close bond Soundgarden’s members share and their enduring commitment to seattle. benefit concerts are often catalysts for reunions, allowing bands to reconvene for a meaningful cause close to their hearts. Seattle Children’s Hospital holds a special place in the city’s community, making this reunion particularly resonant.
The Legacy of Soundgarden
World Today News: Dr. Wilson, how do you think fans will respond to seeing Soundgarden perform without Chris Cornell?
Dr. David Wilson: It will undoubtedly be an emotional experience for fans. Cornell’s presence was undeniably central to Soundgarden’s sound and identity.However, fans also deeply respect the remaining members and their musical legacy. As long as the performance is handled with respect and reverence for Cornell’s memory, I believe fans will embrace this possibility to reconnect with the music they love.
The Future of nudedragons
World Today News: Do you think this reunion signals the possibility of more music from Soundgarden in the future, perhaps under the nudedragons moniker?
Angela Ramirez: At this point, it’s hard to say definitively.
“it’s a very sensitive situation, given the circumstances,” she adds”]. “But this performance could be a stepping stone, allowing the band to gauge fan response and explore creative possibilities without the pressure of expectations.
Remembering Chris Cornell
World Today News: It’s crucial to remember Chris Cornell’s immense contribution to music. His voice and songwriting were truly remarkable. Dr. Wilson,what do you think his legacy means for future generations of musicians?
Dr. David Wilson: Cornell’s impact transcends genre. His raw vocal power and deeply personal lyrics resonated with people from all walks of life. He will continue to inspire aspiring singers and songwriters for generations to come. He embodied vulnerability and authenticity in his music, qualities that will always have a profound impact.
A Night to Remember
The Nudedragons reunion promises to be a night of powerful music, emotional tributes, and a celebration of Soundgarden’s enduring legacy. It’s a chance for fans to come together, share their love for the band, and support a worthy cause.
Get your tickets for the SMooCH benefit and be a part of this historic event: https://smoochforkids.com/
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