The Drummer Turned Frontman Chris Cornell

Grunge legend Chris Cornell did not start as the band's singer. He actually began Soundgarden as both the lead vocalist and the drummer simultaneously.

When the band formed in 1984, Cornell sat behind the drum kit while singing, which is a massive physical and mental challenge for any musician. By 1985, he realized he needed to step away from the drums to fully focus on his iconic vocal range. This shift allowed him to become the dynamic frontman that defined the Seattle sound. Even after leaving the drums behind, his rhythmic sensibility heavily influenced the band's complex, signature songwriting style.