Seattle grunge icons soundgarden are reuniting, albeit under a new name, for a charitable cause close to their hearts.
Surviving members Kim Thayil, matt Cameron, and Ben Shepherd will take the stage as Nudedragons – an anagram of their legendary band name – at the SMooCH benefit concert on December 14th. The event, held at Seattle’s Showbox, supports the Seattle children’s Hospital’s uncompensated care fund.
Taking on the powerful vocals once commanded by the late Chris Cornell will be singer-songwriter Shaina Shepherd. This marks the second time the band has performed as Nudedragons, having previously reunited under the moniker in 2010 at the same venue.
“Nudedragons will be returning to the stage, and the Showbox, for the first time in 14+ years as part of the SMooCH 2024 lineup!!! ShainaShepherd will be featured on vocals for their brief encore performance,” the event website announced.
The lineup also boasts an extraordinary roster of talent, including Sebadoh, Doug Martsch of Built to Spill, and Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses.
Cornell, known for his powerful vocals on hits like “Black Hole Sun,” “Fell on Black Days,” “Rusty Cage,” and “Burden in My Hand,” tragically passed away in 2017. His musical legacy extended beyond Soundgarden, encompassing work with Audioslave, Temple of the Dog, and a successful solo career.
In a surprise move, surviving members of the iconic grunge band soundgarden have reunited for a special performance under the moniker Nudedragons. Guitarist Kim Thayil,drummer Matt Cameron,and bassist Ben Shepherd took the stage alongside Shepherd’s longtime collaborator,vocalist and guitarist, for a one-off show.
This marks the first time the trio has performed together since the tragic passing of frontman Chris Cornell in 2017. Shepherd, who previously fronted the rock group Bearaxe before embarking on a solo career, has a history of collaborating with Thayil, notably at a tribute concert for Alice in Chains.
“It’s a different direction than Linkin Park, which recently reunited for a new album and tour with vocalist Emily Armstrong,” the article notes.Armstrong joins Mike Shinoda as co-vocalist, stepping into the shoes of the late Chester Bennington.
The Soundgarden reunion, while brief, follows previous collaborations between Thayil, Cameron, and Shepherd. In 2021, the trio performed soundgarden songs with Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile at the Gorge Amphitheater. They also reunited in 2019 for a memorial concert honoring Cornell, featuring a star-studded lineup including Chris Stapleton, Foo Fighters, Taylor Momsen, Miley Cyrus, and Metallica.
While the future of Nudedragons remains uncertain, this unexpected performance has reignited excitement among Soundgarden fans worldwide, offering a poignant reminder of the band’s enduring legacy.
## Soundgarden Rises Again: An Exclusive Interview with Kim Thayil on Nudedragons’ Return
**World Today News:** Kim, welcome. It’s incredible to hear Soundgarden, or rather Nudedragons, is reuniting again. What prompted this decision,especially after so many years?
**Kim Thayil:** It’s always a pleasure to give back to Seattle,especially for a cause as crucial as the Seattle Children’s Hospital. The SMooCH benefit concert is close to our hearts, adn supporting their uncompensated care fund is something we feel strongly about.
**WTN:** Having Shaina
Shepherd step into Chris Cornell’s shoes must be incredibly emotional. How did she come to be involved, and what makes her the right choice for this occasion?
**KT:** Shaina is a phenomenal talent, and her voice has a powerful resonance that we feel honors Chris’s legacy while bringing a unique dynamic to the music. We’ve worked with her before, and there’s a natural synergy between us.It’s a testament to the strength and resilience of the Seattle music community that we can come together in this way.
**WTN:** This isn’t the first time you’ve performed as Nudedragons. What does the name represent to you, and how does it feel to revisit it after so long?
**KT:** Nudedragons represents a continuation, a reimagining of the spirit and energy we created as Soundgarden. It allows us to honor our history while also embracing the present. There’s a certain freedom that comes with performing under a different name, and it allows us to connect with the music in a fresh and meaningful way.
**WTN:** Chris Cornell’s absence is keenly felt by fans worldwide. Do you find solace in continuing to share his music and legacy through these reunions?
**KT:** Chris’s music is timeless, and his impact on the world is immeasurable. Every time we play, it’s a party of his life and his art.We feel his presence whenever we’re together,and we find comfort in knowing that his music continues to touch people’s lives.
**WTN:** The SMooCH benefit concert features an amazing lineup, including Sebadoh, doug martsch, and Duff McKagan. What can attendees expect from this special evening?
**KT:** It’s going to be a night of incredible music and positive energy, all for a truly worthy cause. We’re excited to share the stage with such talented musicians and to contribute to something bigger than ourselves.
**WTN:** what message do you have for Soundgarden fans who are eager to see Nudedragons perform?
**KT:** We’re grateful for the continued support and love from our fans.This reunion
is a tribute to them as much as it is to Chris and to the Seattle music scene. Get ready for a powerful night of music and community.
**WTN:** Thank you, Kim, for your time and for continuing to keep the spirit of Soundgarden alive.
**KT:** My pleasure.
