Chris Cornell, born Christopher John Boyle on July 20, 1964, in Seattle, Washington, was an influential American musician, singer, and songwriter. He was the son of Edward F. Boyle, a pharmacist, and Karen Cornell, an accountant. Following his parents’ divorce during his teenage years, he adopted his mother’s maiden name, Cornell. He attended Christ the King Catholic elementary school, where he made one of his earliest public performances, singing “One Tin Soldier.”
Cornell later attended Shorewood High School. During this time, he developed a strong interest in music, taking piano and guitar lessons. His mother eventually purchased a snare drum for him, which he credited with helping him find purpose during a challenging adolescence. After high school, he worked various jobs, including as a busboy, dishwasher, and sous-chef at Ray’s Boathouse in Seattle.
In 1984, Cornell co-founded the band Soundgarden, originally serving as both the drummer and lead vocalist before focusing solely on vocals. Three years later, Soundgarden signed with the independent label Sub Pop, known for promoting the Seattle grunge movement. That same year they released their debut EP, Screaming Life, marking the beginning of their rise in the rock and alternative music scenes.
Soundgarden became one of the pioneering bands of the grunge era, achieving critical and commercial success in the 1990s. Their most iconic hits include “Black Hole Sun,” “Fell on Black Days,” and “Spoonman,” which showcased Cornell's powerful vocal range and lyrical depth. Their influence helped define the Seattle sound alongside bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains.
| Birth Date: | 20 Jul, 1964 |
| Age: | 55 yrs |
| Citizenship: | United States of America |
| Birth Place: | Seattle |
| residence: | Miami |
| Education: | Shorewood High School |
| Gender: | Male |
| Description: | American singer-songwriter, musician |
| Net Worth 2021: | 40 million |
