The rock world still feels the void left by Chris Cornell, the legendary vocalist of Soundgarden and Audioslave. Years after his tragic death in 2017, bandmate and bassist Ben Shepherd has opened up about a chilling feeling he had before the group’s final tour. In a recent interview, Shepherd shared that he “knew something bad was going to happen” the night before they left for the tour — a statement that has reignited emotional memories among fans and fellow musicians alike. His words offer a deeper understanding of Cornell’s final days and the emotional atmosphere surrounding Soundgarden during that period.
Table of Contents
Ben Shepherd’s Uneasy Premonition Before the Final Tour
Ben Shepherd’s revelation has added a new, heartbreaking dimension to the story of Soundgarden’s final tour. Speaking candidly, he mentioned that as the band prepared to hit the road, he couldn’t shake off a dark feeling.
“The night before we left for the tour, I knew that something bad was going to happen,” Shepherd admitted.
He described it not as superstition but as a genuine instinct that something was off. For fans who have followed the band’s journey, this confession is both haunting and human — a reflection of the strong emotional bond between the members and the unspoken worries that sometimes come with fame, pressure, and personal struggle.
Chris Cornell’s Struggles and Final Days
Chris Cornell’s passing on May 18, 2017, remains one of rock’s most devastating moments. Known for his powerful vocals and emotional depth, Cornell was open about his battles with depression and addiction. Although he appeared focused on his music and touring, those close to him later described subtle signs of internal conflict.
During Soundgarden’s last tour, Cornell’s performances were intense yet sometimes marked by emotional exhaustion. According to various reports, friends and colleagues had noticed changes in his mood. Shepherd’s uneasy feeling now seems even more significant in hindsight, almost like a subconscious awareness of what was to come.
The Emotional Toll on Soundgarden Members
The aftermath of Cornell’s death deeply affected every member of Soundgarden. Ben Shepherd, Kim Thayil, and Matt Cameron all struggled to come to terms with the sudden loss of their frontman and friend. Shepherd, in particular, expressed how emotionally draining it was to relive those memories.
He noted that despite the pain, Soundgarden members still felt a deep connection — not only through their shared music but also through the loss they experienced together. It wasn’t just the end of a tour or a career milestone — it was the end of an era that defined a generation of grunge music.
Ben Shepherd Names Producer of Soundgarden’s Upcoming Album
Amidst the emotional revelations, Ben Shepherd also gave fans something hopeful — an update about Soundgarden’s upcoming album. He confirmed that the band’s next project is being produced by Adam Kasper, the same producer who worked with them on albums like “Down on the Upside” and “King Animal.”
Shepherd said the album will honor Cornell’s legacy while showcasing Soundgarden’s signature sound. The surviving members have reportedly been revisiting unfinished material recorded before Cornell’s death, aiming to complete it with respect and care. Fans can expect a sound that stays true to their grunge roots — heavy, raw, and emotionally charged.
Also Read: Soundgarden Honor Chris Cornell During Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction
The Bond Between Ben Shepherd and Chris Cornell
Throughout their career, Ben Shepherd and Chris Cornell shared a unique bond. Shepherd often credited Cornell for his guidance and friendship, calling him one of the most talented and introspective musicians he had ever worked with. Even when disagreements arose, there was always mutual respect.
Shepherd’s recent comments highlight how deeply he cared about Cornell’s well-being. The “bad feeling” he described was more than fear — it was the emotional sensitivity of someone who truly understood his bandmate’s inner world. It shows the human side of musicians who, beyond fame, face the same vulnerabilities as anyone else.
Fans React to Ben Shepherd’s Revelation
Following Shepherd’s interview, fans across social media have been expressing both sorrow and support. Many shared their own emotional memories of Soundgarden’s music, which often spoke about pain, introspection, and resilience.
Some fans described Shepherd’s feeling as a “spiritual connection,” while others viewed it as the natural instinct of a close friend sensing something wrong. Either way, the story has brought renewed attention to mental health awareness in the music industry — a topic Cornell himself often addressed through his songs.
Soundgarden’s Legacy in Rock History
Soundgarden remains one of the most influential rock bands of the 1990s, shaping the grunge movement alongside Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains. Their hits like “Black Hole Sun,” “Fell on Black Days,” and “Spoonman” continue to inspire generations of listeners.
Even after Cornell’s passing, the band’s music stands as a testament to creativity, authenticity, and emotional power. Ben Shepherd’s story serves as a reminder that Soundgarden’s journey was built not only on talent but also on deep human connection — the kind that transcends life and death.
Remembering Chris Cornell’s Impact
Chris Cornell’s influence goes far beyond Soundgarden. His solo work, as well as his time with Audioslave and Temple of the Dog, showcased his unmatched vocal range and songwriting ability. He had the rare gift of making listeners feel seen and understood through his lyrics.
Even years after his death, Cornell’s voice continues to echo across playlists, tribute concerts, and fan gatherings. His story, while tragic, reminds us of the importance of empathy, mental health, and the healing power of music.
Conclusion: A Warning, A Legacy, and a Lasting Bond
Ben Shepherd’s haunting “bad feeling” before Soundgarden’s final tour is more than a tragic anecdote — it’s a symbol of how deeply connected bandmates can be. His reflections bring to light the fragile balance between art and emotional struggle that many musicians face.
As fans await Soundgarden’s new album produced by Adam Kasper, there’s hope that it will serve as both a tribute and a continuation of Chris Cornell’s incredible legacy. In the end, the music lives on — as a message of strength, love, and remembrance.
