Soundgarden "Fell on Black Days" REACTION & ANALYSIS by Vocal Coach / Opera Singer

I find myself leaving every video of Chris Cornell's that I've done with an emotional burden, constricted by his haunting lyrics and impassioned song writing. "Fell On Black Days" is Chris's tale of a severe case of depression as a youth, not leaving his house for over a year. That sense of crippling desperation truly hit me in this reaction, and I don't think I can ever shake it.
Join professional opera singer Elizabeth Zharoff, as she listens to Soundgarden for the first time, performing "Fell On Black Days”.
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Performed by Soundgarden - Words and Music by Chris Cornell
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I definitely recommend watching the original video without interruptions. Here's the link: • Soundgarden - Fell On ...
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Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
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Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
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#Soundgarden #Reaction #TheCharismaticVoice
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[@HaleysTusk]

My Opinion, Chris Cornell was the finest of all the vocalists to come out of the Grunge era.

[@billbrasky1288]

Perhaps any era

[@ajackson5955]

Easily.

[@sandrosarunic9486]

Layne is the one for me

[@MediumMonitor]

i like Layne better but love both.

[@EvanONS1]

His definitely got some competition but that's just because *so many* grunge singers are surprisingly some of the best vocalists.

[@hallelgreenspan8565]

"Fell On Black Days is the feeling of waking up one day and realizing you're not happy with your life. Nothing happened, there was no emergency, no accident, you don't know what happened. You were happy, and one day you just aren't, and you have to try to figure that out" -In his words.

[@69CamaroSS]

😢

[@rylian21]

Fuck. Yeah, I get that. Been there.

[@GreyMatterStew]

Still there. Always there.

[@qballz2833]

@@GreyMatterStew same.

[@GreyMatterStew]

@@qballz2833 then I sincerely wish you a merry Christmas, even if it's just one day.

[@Margaret75]

This is why grunge was so perfect, it expressed all the rage, desperation, depression and helplessness a generation felt and still feels.

[@Azznbad]

Looking back when you listen to this and you kind of get he was a tortured soul most of his life. They talk about people feeling what they sing, and this couldn't have been a better example. You get depression when someone is down and out in life, but we rarely notice it in those who are talented and successful. Perhaps we just refuse to accept that people who are talented and successful beyond what the rest of us could ever dream of being are still just people. They may not ever worry about getting the water bill paid, but they still trip over the cat and wonder what they could do to make life just a little better and can't find that single answer. I lived through the death of Elvis. The big three going into 1970, John Bonham, Keith Moon and all the other ODs and suicides, but Cornell bothered me and still does. I still see those little kids on stage to see Daddy, and it's just heart breaking.

[@sunrajah]

I've always called it GRUDGE music instead of GRUNGE

[@playasurf1000]

Genuine rage and desperation rather than manufactured virtue signalling rage(micro aggression crap) we have today. So you ain't gonna get the genuine grunge today

[@joyschlomer6866]

Screaming trees Lanergan voice does it for me. I don't compare chris and mark they're both just so good. All of these guys so good, so lucky I got to experience from their very first radio plays or albums.

[@PuckeredMeatball]

raised by boomers.

[@chrism9962]

The thing about depression. Is when you are depressed it’s definitive. The way he asks, “how would I know that this would be my fate,” Is the same way I would ask in my darkest moments, “what did I do in a past life to be so alone.” To everybody reading this, I love you, and you are not alone!

[@janfrank4323]

@chrism9962 Back atcha!! Thank you for saying that, really..thank you. 💙💚💙💚

[@cherylmontgomery9753]

chrism9962 I just read your comment about depression and it's as though you were writing down my feelings. Depression is such a struggle to live with. I often find myself asking what I did in a past life to have to endure what I have in this thing they call life that has caused major depression and PTSD. Your comment made me feel so not alone. I thank you for that. Best wishes to you and sending love back my friend. Take care.

[@joetoe9207]

Best to you all.

[@maxdamagusbroski]

Yuck. "you are not alone" is one of the worst things you can say to a depressive, as is a meaningless declaration of "love".

[@Seeyatellite]

We love you too, friend. Keep your head up. ❤

[@cgsweat]

Everybody in the comments talks about "Outshined" but absolutely no one mentions "Burden in my Hand." The intro to that song ALONE is one of Chris's greatest vocal performances!

[@thebooger_boy4002]

True, but I think Slaves and Bulldozers really shows off his vocals. But then again, so do a lot of the other songs.

[@kyuzo6661]

Agreed

[@Ninjametal]

Agreed, friend

[@jakefromstatefarm1405]

They're all good, I hope to see her do much more soundgarden

[@insufferablethrashelitist9305]

Agree, I favor burden in my hand too.

[@robertgriffith3139]

Chris's voice was missed the moment it went silent. That's how powerful it is.

[@dynami1967]

Luckily we have nearly 3 decades of music from him, so his voice will never be silent.

[@deweytucker5413]

Very well said.

[@incredulous1]

Well that comment caught me off guard

[@infernus24]

“No one sings like you anymore” 🥲

[@cacadodo666]

Cornell makes so many rock artists seem like clowns. He’s a triple threat: amazing range and timbre, can accompany himself, and his lyrics are extremely poetic, mature, articulate, without being presumptuous, convoluted, or teen angsty.

[@sillynelson1]

As a Soundgarden fan, I love watching her reaction to the mellow first half of the song not knowing what’s coming around the corner.

[@gabsgabs1287]

YESSSS I love when she reacts to songs like this tbh, evil laughs all the time

[@sanny8716]

Not sure what y'all are talking about, the song is pretty mellow throughout

[@zakkwolfe1850]

How would she know? 😏

[@jaydeus]

I came here for this

[@kevinbunn7915]

​@@sanny8716the how would I know, then the sure don't mind a change and the guitars and drums picking up that don't happen in the first half

[@briandriscoll9848]

My friend's GF was in the car while this was on and she said "I hate this song, it makes me feel so depressed." My friend replied "If it makes you feel something so strongly, you should love this song." You could see the epiphany wash over her face. This song got me through a lot of dark places, knowing I wasn't alone in those dark places. I wish Chris Cornell could have got through his.

[@kellysnyder1405]

💓💓💓

[@chrishawkins32014]

Me too. I miss him deeply. Him and Chester.

[@antoinettetingley9969]

are you related to Everett?

[@joemulbay3791]

epiphany or empathy?

[@briandriscoll9848]

@@joemulbay3791 Epiphany. Right then she realized how music could convey any emotion. Her feeling sad was empathy but she didn't understand how hard it is to make the listener change their emotional state. There's tons of sad songs out but most don't really effect the listener on such a deep level.

[@Madman6505]

"Superunknown" is a timeless masterpiece. What always strikes me about it is how they managed to make an album so unique (perhaps even strange or avant-garde), but at the same so musically satisfying.

[@Nanocology]

Great comment, couldn't agree more

[@colinburroughs9871]

The early records are just as good. Beyond The Wheel is one of the most underrated tunes in the rock universe

[@warrenmiller2044]

@@colinburroughs9871 theyre not

[@apmartini70]

So much about that album seems like it shouldn’t work on paper, but between the tremendous musicianship of the band and Chris’s legendary vocals, it comes together in a way that almost made it inevitable.

[@DonnachaDeLong]

Superunknown is too long and has too many slower songs. Great songs on their own, but difficult to listen to straight through (even more difficult if the band is playing the full album - I saw them do that and honestly got bored). Badmotorfinger is their masterpiece.

[@wattsun7946]

No one ever mentions the absolute brilliance of Ben's bass playing on this song. Tonally it perfectly accompanies the mood behind Chris Vocal.

[@keithferris9574]

I for one always have known how awesome the basslines are in this song.

[@williamentaidierolf1400]

New to your channel. Love it! You should try Soundgarden "Slaves and Bulldozers" or maybe "Beyond the Wheel". Amazing and showcase his range. Or you can try any other Soundgarden. You will never be disappointed.

[@michaelflatters7354]

It has always been the musical part of the song that my ear is drawn to.

[@70sChangedtheWorld]

now that you mention it - i listened closer to the bass... its so subtle - just beautiful. this whole song is a work of art -

[@LateralusMorales]

One of A greates band of all The times

[@o0ThunderGod0o]

Chris Cornell was one of the best vocalists rock has seen, It still breaks my heart and chokes me up to listen to him sing. His voice is freeing at the same time.

[@jjdracing510]

Absolutely! Growing up on Priest and Ronnie James and most of the "greats" I just dont know that any of them compared to Cornell

[@helzapoppin9810]

Chris was a vocal genius. He, Eddie Vedder and Layne Stayley are the Holy Trinity of the Grunge era. All three just stunning in vocal intensity.

[@BongEyedBastard]

And although not grunge, I do believe that rock contemporary Geoff Tate of Queensryche is also from Seattle. 4 incredible singers.

[@Cquinncer]

Cobain was so good too. Not as technically great, but unique and iconic.

[@psychoticmemories2583]

Andrew Wood was Chris Cornell's roommate in the early days. Search "Chris Cornell & Andrew Wood - Island Of Summer (home recording) (Landrew Radio)"

[@markvanderstelt8999]

do not forget Scott Weiland could sing anything.

[@paulfountain3295]

The Screaming Trees never quite achieved the popularity of Pearl Jam, Soundgarden or Alice in Chains, but Mark Lanegan also deserves a nod here for his work with them, The Gutter Twins and his Solo albums.

[@ofermashiach4519]

Elizabeth, if you want to hear what Chris Cornell is really capable of, listen to "Slaves & Bulldozers" from the 1991 album "Badmotorfinger". And make sure to buckle your seatbelt because you're about to be blown away.

[@MrPudding101]

YES. my favorite soundgarden song. always gives me chills when he hits those high notes when he says “bleed your heart out”. such a good song. badass

[@tmo42i]

It's quintessential Cornell range and awesome Thayil solo.

[@dans2788]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnq8fnuKaralmdk

[@irishblockade2556]

agreed, Badmotorfinger is one of my all time 'can't live without' albums and Slaves & Bulldozers is top notch.

[@psychoticmemories2583]

The whole album is just amazing and holds up today as it did when it first came out.

[@gsadventures678]

Eddie Vedder, Scott Weiland, Chris Cornell and Layne Staley all had unique and amazing voices! Thank goodness I was young when grunge kicked the door in!

[@gsadventures678]

@fiumba🤑 Of course, and there are others as well!

[@lennyj3300]

Strangely all junkies too.

[@barneystinson4289]

​@@lennyj3300 The CIA used heroin on the American populace to make money, especially in the 60s and 90s. All the best artists were murdered by the CIA

[@ingloriousbetch4302]

​​​​@@lennyj3300ie Vedder was not. His worst drug was weed. Vedder was also one of the very few grunge artists who had healthy relationships with his parents and wasn't dealt a toxic, abusive childhood via sh*t parents. While Vedders parents were divorced, they kept it civil and cohesive which is incredibly important.

[@RockinLocks4u]

@@ingloriousbetch4302 And Vedder is the only one still alive

[@adp98761]

Chris Cornell is simply the greatest vocalist ever. He hits 5 octaves and had no weaknesses. I'm so sad that he left us, but I'm glad to have known him through his music.

[@user-pf1sf3vb1c]

Not much better in this world then listening to him sing.

[@PerfectCircle91]

The BEST hands down again and again!

[@ExaltedDuck]

Chris Cornell was a once in a generation talent. This is one of the best songs on what I would assert was Soundgarden's best album. I would also recommend giving a listen to Like Suicide (probably my favorite track), Mailman, and 4th of July. Although, honestly, just listen to the whole album. Every song on is so well written and masterfully performed that it's an injustice to just pick and choose a few... Really only comes down to how any of the songs connect to any specific listener. I would go so far as to say it's not just Soundgarden's best album but firmly among the best all time rock albums ever made. And I truly hope that Chris - on some level - was able to know how much opening up his own suffering to the world helped those like him... Like us... Feel less alone. His was one of the only celebrity deaths to move me to tears. Felt like losing family.

[@ronskopitz2360]

Wow - well said. I agree with every word, except… I could really do without “Spoonman” myself. I love the other tracks you mentioned as well as the rest of the album. The “Superunknown” track is an absolute masterpiece.

[@thebooger_boy4002]

I personally love every song. My favorite Soundgarden song is probably Like Suicide. But Mailman is amazing, Fresh Tendrils, etc. etc. etc.

[@gphil2001]

I second 4th of July. The brooding is thick and enveloping.

[@antonkovalenko364]

If I start to listen to the album i have to listen to the whole thing.

[@yaguaraza]

The acoustic Like Suicide particularly

[@kelleyforeman]

No one sings like you anymore, Chris 😢

[@UnspecifiedHandle]

If you want another dark song of his, "4th of July" is incredibly nuanced for a slower metal-sounding song.

[@SrbijaCG]

I think "Beyond the Wheel" might actually push a but further.

[@vovindequasahi]

Fuck yeah! Total Sabbathy song. People called Soundgarden Grunge, but they were total Black Sabbath afficianados. Then again everybody from Seattle back then was called grunge.

[@AppalachiaRRlover]

imho that is the best song on the Superunknown album that and Mailman

[@kenmorefield7985]

Here is a recent cover of 4th of July by Eric Johanson - he’s a beast on guitar and doing quite well on the blues charts - kzbin.info/www/bejne/gGjPXp2JrpuFirM

[@kristihall822]

One of my favorite songs on Superunknown. Although, I think the album itself is a masterpiece.

[@frmrchristian8488]

Wow! I'm going to be brutally honest. I've been a singer/songwriter for over 30 yrs. and have always loved Soundgarden and Cornell. When I stumbled upon this video, I was thinking, " let's see what the beautiful songbird thinks of this!" Then, from the very beginning you brought such insight to the examination of this song, that I LOVE and have probably heard 300 tes or more. I was really blown away at the surgical interpretation of his breaths and the correlation between musical exclamations and which word he chooses to emphasize, etc. Well done! You've gifted me an entire new appreciation of the song and Cornell himself. Thank you!

[@KarrasSim]

💯 this!!!

[@Diocane81]

just saying: this is not the studio version of the song, but a live performance made for the videoclip. the whole band is flawless, and cornell's singing is even more intense..

[@Papparratzi]

I noticed it was very restrained vocally. I prefer the studio and concert versions

[@krystalm4590]

Is this later?

[@ipure2]

I've never seen the video until now and never knew the video was live.

[@matthewbarnhart5428]

I actually prefer the studio version to this version she’s reacting to. I think Chris does a few more things with his vocal melodies on the album, compared to what he does here. Also there’s a third falsetto melody in the interlude on the studio version that he omits here.

[@1Deep43VA]

@@PapparratziI thought it was more intense. Especially when he adds distortion.

[@edgcrushr]

I've always loved the line "I'm only faking when I get it right." I think most of us can relate to that.

[@kylethomson2449]

It's my moto..

[@qballz2833]

I've heard so many people over the years say that and I don't buy it. I can't relate to most people and they generally shun the fuck out of me. I don't believe most people feel uncertain or fake or have any discomfort with playing the games of life.

[@haeresis_]

@@qballz2833 that's good on you, means you haven't gone through that. I can tell you it's real and many people have a hard time getting up from bed to put a smile on their face.

[@qballz2833]

@@haeresis_ no...I absolutely have. Every day. I don't think all these normies have.

[@Ghostmotorfinger]

@@haeresis_ Yes, every day is a struggle. Life feels like pushing a boulder uphill and never getting anywhere.

[@BrowneePointz]

If you ever wanna hear Chris just BLOW the damn door off its hinges, I highly recommend Rusty Cage with Soundgarden or Gasoline when he was with Audioslave. Some may prefer Layne as "the purest voice of Grunge" but Chris Cornell, without a shadow of a doubt, was the single most technically proficient and powerful rock singer to have come out of the late 80s and 90s. Bar none.

[@Amitabha108]

Rusty CAGE!!!

[@briancrawford69]

Any decade

[@DJosAmmel]

Re Chris going all out: Y'all mo'fo's need #LoudLove… kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGHboKZ7e8prf80

[@ryanmarquardt7583]

If we're doing Audioslave, the best vocal by Chris has to be "Shadow on the Sun".... beautiful, haunting song that stretches his vocals from a soothing soulful harmony, all the way up to screaming vocals. He is absolutely amazing in this song. I miss him everyday. :(

[@warrenmiller2044]

“Burden in My Hand” too

[@MrBogus213]

I don't think I could express how much I appreciate the amount of care and respect you have for every song that comes to you. The research you do and how much you dig in to every word and every note. You feel the music in a way that I completely relate to. Amazing work, thank you.

[@SeanEnginetechnology]

Well put brother! Great music is timeless, and my goodness between Chris and Layne there is just Soo freaking much amazingly great music let alone the rest of the extremely talented musicians to come out of that area and time ❤️🙏❤️❤️ **My cousin lives in Sea-Tac and is another REALLY great musician. The band he's in put out a demo or album recently and I am truly amazed at the quality of the song writing and the musicianship of him and the entire band!! Crazy, and sad, that he used to think that I was a great musician, though I unfortunately let life and a wife get in the way of my playing.. at least I have started playing again, for myself and for my 2 children, an 8yr old and a 2yr old.. they both love me playing and I just got my 8yr old and electric guitar so God willing she will let me give her lessons and start practicing, like REALLY practicing with the passion I had for the first 15+years I was playing!!!

[@Gemini_Mama]

For a man who never wanted to be or thought of himself as a singer, his voice was just incredible. The way he could sound so vulnerable, pained, resigned, and do it so velvet-smooth. Ugh. We lost a great one.

[@alejandromunoz1773]

So true, but he left us all of his beautiful natural gift.

[@johndef5075]

And could howl like a hurricane💔🖤

[@jaymeister4850]

As great a singer as he was, his vocal skill was absolutely dwarfed by his artistry and composition. He would write down words and KNOW that this one (not that one, not the other one) needed extra oomph. My god, what a talent.

[@eduardozamora1947]

"How could I know that this would be my fate". Man we all would've liked your fate to be different Chris, miss ya.

[@kengaroo67]

Please don't forget Kim Thayil's amazing guitar work that perfectly complements Chris's haunting vocals.

[@vk3fbab]

Lots of talk about Chris' distortion but nothing about Kim's. Yeah it's a vocal reaction but Kim's playing isn't really major scale and quite out there.

[@williamcarpenter4353]

Agreed. But Chris isn’t a slouch on guitar

[@MustObeyTheRules]

I mean that’s great and all, but Chris is credited for the music on this as well as almost all of their biggest songs. Just saying. Chris was more of the creative force even on the guitar.

[@JoelER78]

​@@MustObeyTheRules Ah, you mean the writing of the music! Yes, Chris was great at writing (lyrics and music).

[@hectorn.6137]

His solo in, "Black Hole Sun" instantly brings me back to 6th grade. It's pretty fucking good too.

[@velvetgrimm]

Chris was the poet laureate of our born-jaded Generation X. He transcended the genre and the generation to truly become a voice of the people. I can only hope that you explore more than just his work with Soundgarden. His soul fought to be free in every word he wrote and every note he sang.

[@Neonlike0]

I feel this so much. YES!

[@williambeckley3029]

Yes. And I would like her to analyze Chris acoustic versions of this song and also acoustic version of Black Hole sun. Also his cover of Pearl Jam Better Man. And his Seasons.

[@pinkyblackwell3613]

Sweet Euphoria off his solo album Euphoria Mourning 💓🎶

[@tommykabat]

What a beautiful and accurate way to describe it.

[@joeb4142]

Just think of what the new generation of kids will be feeling with the catastrophic effects of global climate destabilization, the resultant mass migration of entire nations etc.

[@oglschmitt]

This song feels like standing behind a dump truck and having a ton of sediment poured onto you, so it will be interesting to see how Elizabeth reacts to that. I've been in that dark place myself and I promise, not only can it be conquered, but the light is never more beautiful then when you have to fight to bask in its warmth. Have a safe and happy holiday, everyone.

[@sethkaicer319]

G l Schmidt introduced Soundgarden to the Spoonman.

[@oglschmitt]

@@sethkaicer319 True, but it was Seth Kaicer who introduced Alice in Chains to the Man in the Box.

[@user-pj5my5po3q]

I'm still in a dark place. I hope you are right, Sir. Thanks.

[@NefariousPorpoise]

Give me a break.

[@guen4413]

What a beautiful comment! I’m glad you’re in a better place now

[@georgeshaw8925]

She spoke the truth at the end, “there are so many technical things going on, but ultimately the emotion in his voice trumps it all.” Great singers do this effortlessly.

[@levimcqueary9514]

You've reacted to the "Big 4" of the grunge era, but there is another band that came out at the same time. They get overlooked because they didn't come from Seattle. The Stone Temple Pilots were just as popular. Had good guitar hooks and a good lead singer, who just like so many died too young. They also had a MTV Unplugged set that can hold up to Nirvana, Peral Jam and AIC's sets. The set was very interesting because they had Scott Weiland (who is a mad man of energy and snaking his way across the stage) set in a chair for the set to confine him and see what would happen. For songs to check out I would suggest "Plush" the most famous song from the set. "Creep" and "Big Empty" both really worked in the acoustic setting.

[@joelhagen8564]

I would definitely check out plush unplugged-agree 1000% if there is a top 4 of grunge , STP is definitely number 5. When it first came out , I thought I was listening to new Pearl Jam.

[@cloverraven]

Yes

[@ryanamendt8363]

STP is grunge era but not a grunge band.

[@RobertCastaldo]

Scott Weiland's favorite vocal performance of Plush was the acoustic version from Headbangers Ball. I think it features his voice far better than any other recording of it, and it's way better than the unplugged set.

[@vojtechhoracek7704]

STP and Scott Weiland are name-dropped quite often (and rightly so), but it just surprises me there isn't more love for Screaming Trees and Mark Lanegan - and he's still around making great music, pretty far from grunge but very very powerful nonetheless. And his deep baritone voice feels like it's been aged in whiskey barrels for a couple decades.

[@tomasv1366]

Chris was the Robert Plant of that scene. So grateful for what he gave us, so missing what he still had to give. Rest well, Chris.

[@eleptheria1]

"search lights so they say, but i cant see them in the night" is an exact description of depression... although those who care look for you, you cant see them through the dark ... its a profound observation, that hits right at the core... love your people and be there for them...although you can see them, the dark hides you from them...

[@BabyCharlotteschannel]

Well put. Funny I didn't remember those lyrics being about depression, and I sure no depression.. I was blessed enough to have grown up with and seen sound garden, Alice in chains and more in concert, just amazing! Of course Mad Season is the only one I didn't get to see but Yeah, Layne Staley is my favorite singer of all time. They're all such a loss, it was a better world with them in it for sure.

[@kornelberzai7850]

The lyrics is: I'm a search light soul they say, but I can't see it in the night.

[@jasjfl]

This song is the best description of depression I’ve ever heard, in music or otherwise. The “Sure don’t mind a change” line repeated over again is so perfect. To me it’s meant facetiously and you can hear that seething anger in it. The line captures the two sides of depression that seemingly shouldn’t be able to happen simultaneously but do. You somehow don’t care and feel enraged about not caring at all. You desperately want things to change in the future and still hold animosity towards the initial change that brought the depression in the first place. And not understanding how that initial change even happened leads to incredible frustration and anger. There’s so much packed into this song it’s unbelievable.

[@sarahs7253]

...i thpught he said search my soul they say.. But it probably is Search light soul

[@capoman1]

If you've ever been truly depressed, you don't want help, your pain is yours and not like hunger where others can feed you and satisfy you. People don't run for help, we are embarrassed and stuck in our feelings, it's not something someone can simply talk us out of.

[@greyinvader]

This song is a hard listen ever since Chris passed on. It's the same with "Nutshell" from Alice in Chains. Heartwrenching.

[@qballz2833]

All AIC fans seem to adore that song and I've never gotten it.

[@tanyaezeard1077]

I feel the same way also about listening to Pool Shark from Sublime, it breaks my heart everytime. RIP Brad!

[@williamkramer9731]

@Q Ballz if you can't get it you've never really paid much attention.. It's the unplugged version with such a strong performance and his demise only added to that power.... Personally I wish the mad season song wake up would've took that pedestal, because the third person lyrics about himself along with the message conveyed, while knowing he was in borrowed time and in poor condition, could've been one of the most powerful anti drug songs of our generation... That song was basically him looking in a mirror saying don't be like me.

[@sdqsdq6274]

big empty - stp

[@williamkramer9731]

@@sdqsdq6274 it's a great introduction to stp, but once you start that wormhole, staff

[@CyrilKeller]

Chris was a brilliant writer, and as I had the chance to interview him, i can say he was a sweet person, and with an incredible charisma.

[@pepijnwarmerdam8784]

The way he delivers "Whomsoever i've cured i've sickened now, whomsoever i've cradled i've put you down. He bends and sustains the u on cured and then understates the cradled, then have the sustain and bend on down, goosebumps every time, even nearly thirty years after i had this on repeat for an hour at a time.

[@tillwesenberg1178]

He's singing in a low voice generally in this song, and everytime he's ascending to a higher note he's making me feel the effort it takes him to do that, it sounds like something is trying to tie him down, like the effort it takes him to fight his ruin and resegnation. The smile is the painful rememberance of happiness in the past. Moving piece of music. Tragically honest in a way, it seems. One of your finest reviews in my opinion.

[@DJosAmmel]

Beautifully put. Depression is the mourning of absent joy, its echos piercing. Cornell translated that pain perfectly.

[@richardbevan23]

I still struggle emotionally even now to listen to Chris singing - for me THE best voice of his generation. Impossible to listen to "Like Suicide" without a gigantic lump in the throat to accompany the goosebumps - rarely get through it without tears.

[@martinpugh972]

100% agree!!! 'Like suicide' , since his death, hits me with double the force it always stuck me with! And i always loved this deep song anyway.....second only to 'say hello 2 heaven'!! RIP to the voice of our generation

[@briancollis1809]

Chris was such a gem. So sad his channeling all this emotion and putting it out didn't save him, or at least let him cope and survive. Next time we need to hear Chris REALY let loose. SG's "Jesus Christ Pose" or "Outshined," or Audioslave's "Show Me How to Live"

[@analogblues]

I endorse all those song recommendations! Elizabeth, please do one of those next!

[@kikeheebchinkjigaboo6631]

CHRIS WAS MURDERED BECAUSE HE WANTED TO EXPOSE THE CHILD SEX TRAFFICKING RINGS

[@Intercaust]

Jesus Christ Pose is the best song to review or Slaves and Bulldozers.

[@madaro504]

Beyond the wheel

[@confused-turnip]

I second the recommendation of "Outshined", it's so powerful

[@dananewsom5483]

I've dealt with depression pretty much my whole life. When this album came out, this song hit me so hard. Still one of my favorites from Chris Cornell

[@fathertime5179]

N.E.V.E.R. stop what you do. You are AMAZING. You bring even more meaning to songs that I have always loved. Thank you. Incredible.

[@mikealexander2005]

We lost so much when we lost Chris. Please ask the people you love if they're ok. And really listen to the answer. We can do better

[@gregcampbell2977]

Well said Mike. 👏

[@erdjohann8265]

I literally cried all through this video. The song itself, the band at the peak of their game, the memory of Chris and both your visible emotional reaction as well as your amazing analytical skills make this a highlight in any context. Thank you so much.

[@kristihall822]

I cried too.

[@vaughnnewman8903]

Not only an iconic and legendary voice in Rock, but in all of music. He also had the ability to make you feel what he felt. He's one-in-a-billion and sorely missed. RIP

[@jamesdomusmusic6702]

This performance was so much better than the original, album version. The melody is much better, IMHO, much deeper, more emotic. I don't think I've ever heard it before. EDIT: As much as Nirvana is my favorite Grunge band, I have to say Soundgarden has a special place in my heart, for one main reason, Chris Cornell's amazing voice. One of the best in all rock history, IMHO.

[@jeucedudemanbromcdeuce3611]

Fun fact: Chris had just recovered from a severe vocal injury during the Superunknown tour. I believe this was shot in 1995 and his injury was in late 1994. It's amazing he was able to recover so quickly and so well. This is kind of a studio live hybrid version of the song that you are reacting to. I recommend finding the pro shot version of Spoonman from a year prior to this. It was shot in Kawasaki, Japan. It showcases him in really strong form and would be a good example for a vocal analysis.

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

I imagine this would be when he worked with Ron Anderson who just passed the other day. RIP to both.

[@foxandscout]

@@RobbieFitzgerald 😢😢😰

[@Amitabha108]

Yes to Spoonman!

[@SteveFrank111]

Such a good choice. Not super crazy high like his earlier stuff, but so expressive.

[@ndesdsadfd]

Well, on this very same album there is Limo Wreck. Where he belts like a MF.

[@maritobeccaglia2811]

His higher pitches are on his earlier stuff though

[@packetcreeper]

Chris Cornell was a rock god. Every time I see a video he's in, it's both sad and enlightening.

[@ejflesher]

This song is built so well. Have you ever been telling someone about all of your angst and at first it starts off controlled and as you start to express yourself all of emotions start to build as you verbalize it and your composure starts to fall and your anxiety and anger and stress becomes manifest and then you let it all out in a stream of consciousness and afterwards you feel a catharsis and all of that angst melts a away in the release? Yeah that's this song.

[@debrajol3585]

Perfectly said. The calm before the storm back to normal.

[@nichollebraspennickx943]

Well said/expressed

[@grambo1980]

This song was my anthem growing up. Radio was playing it black hole sun, but I always thought this was their best song on that masterpiece of an album

[@AgentSnoreJar]

I would agree. I used to skip or change the station when Black Hole Sun came on. I liked the song the first times I heard it, but damn if the radio stations and MTV didn't play the shit out of that song.

[@godkeebler]

So glad I wasn’t the only one ☝️

[@cinemangler1763]

This one certainly spoke to me, but not as much as Like Suicide. Musically, I really enjoyed Limo Wreck, though I couldn't place my finger on the why.

[@JustInOutDoors78]

Full on Kevin's Mom

[@trulyunoriginal]

Black Hole Sun and Spoonman are probably my least favourite. This track, Fresh Tendrils, and My Wave are all outstanding though

[@rome8180]

I would love to see you do "The Day I Tried to Live" next. Or if you want something with maximum Chris Cornell range, "Burden in my Hand."

[@moztheroz]

Burden in my hand.....personally feel its the best vocal performance ever recorded. Just my opinion but it ticks everything there is to tick.

[@obviousstraightguy]

Honestly you could dedicate a whole channel to sound garden. I love burden in my hand and the day I tried to live, but I think the song that really showcases his vocal range is slaves and bulldozers. That song puts every heavy metal singer to shame in my opinion.

[@MichaelGalok]

Or Pretty Noose

[@MiLara]

Chris was a master of bringing authenticity to art … so expressive and beautiful… he is missed and I hope he has found peace. He deserves more than what he got out of his life … RIP

[@Kabz8]

This is a perfect song and one of Soundgardens best. Chris Cornell and Layne Staley defined the grunge era for me. Gone too soon.

[@raymo6795]

Both, Gone too soon, bums me out Kabz

[@chilldog998]

From someone who has been a fan of metal and rock genres for over thirty years, I've always said Chris Cornell is one of the best and most unique voice talents in the genre and in music in general And when I hear any of those guys songs it takes me back to my teens and twenties which is both exhilarating, nostalgic and also depressing cos I'm so old now!! ☹️

[@krisklt_fire3438]

Chris Cornell is a master class of how to express emotion in so many ways, and will always be missed by fans and so many more.

[@megadead]

Love how that guitar harmony at the end switches to the major key. It kinda makes it feel like he's almost laughing in the face of the black days. A glimpse of a light in the tunnel. Like that moment when you catch yourself and notice that you're wallowing, you notice the depression for what it is, and you can remember that it's just a feeling, a chemical in the brain, and not who you are in your entirety. I sure don't mind a change!

[@nickface55]

Living in Seattle in the late 80's and early 90's was amazing. Can't tell you how many times I've seen all of the bands from there. With Chris, Kurt, Andy, Lynn and others who are now gone can leave all of us stuck in Black Days. Their fires burned so bright that it was impossible to continue for very long.

[@klaasfeys847]

I think you would really love Jeff Buckley as well. Chris Cornell expressed his appreciation for Jeff on many occasions. Also died far too young, No Grunge though, but the same artistry as this. 'Grace' is probably the best place to start.

[@embioptera11]

Yes Jeff Buckley. His vocals were off the charts.

[@michaelheller8841]

Chris Cornell has a lot of control with his voice. Another story teller that can belt out notes and come down to sound as smooth as silk. I miss him like RJD. Very much missed.

[@AscensionProject8]

Your point about his bridging is something that I've always loved about Chris Cornell's style. When you read the lyrics, sometimes they don't make sense and you're not sure how the song is going to come together... but when you hear it, everything is right where it should be.

[@mikeb.1705]

What I love about this is seeing her listen to it with the same look of feeling on her face that I feel every time I hear this song. Just blown away / carried away by the power of the song and singer. I think it's awesome seeing someone listen to and be pulled in by songs that we've been listening to for almost 30 years. "How would I know... that this could be my fate?" ... "There's a lot to digest in there." Yes, there is.

[@jimidave6281]

You have to do, "Call me a dog", that Chris did with Temple of the Dog. Just incredible vocally.

[@joelhagen8564]

Definitely should try this song Live acoustic version off “songbook” album

[@JuanLopez-vh9xs]

Yesssssss

[@wonkothesane8632]

Yes! This.

[@johnsilver8059]

That’s my favorite song on that album.

[@badsabre5917]

That whole album is fire.

[@DeltaSleepCumtownFan]

Pleeeeeease check out "the day I tried to live" I think it's one of Soundgarden's best. Certainly a wide vocal range and a lot of emotion poured out into one song.

[@johnc7512]

Agree!!!!

[@threeofeight197]

I love how it sounds like he’s forcing the smile. Just like one does when one has fallen on black days.

[@dex1lsp]

The way he emphasizes "night" sounds so full of pain, just like the middle of a lonely depressed night.

[@allytay208]

And Rusty Cage!! Chris will always be my favorite singer. From the late 80’s when they played the local clubs and my friend had a huge crush on him and we would follow them from club to club. My oldest daughter and I saw many shows together The last time I saw him play was on my 50th birthday at Benaroya Hall. Miss him.

[@mrfriendly9956]

In my opinion, the loss of Chris Cornell was huge. We also lost Chester Bennington, due to this and caused depression to many others such as Taylor Momsen. He had quite an impact.

[@slaterbater1988]

Chester Stepped out on Cornell's birthday too... or maybe the anniversary of his death? Either way. Synced. So sad

[@YouTubeperson1337]

​@@slaterbater1988was going to add this part. Very sad.

[@GyzelE]

What's amazing is that Chris could do all of this technical stuff with his voice WHILE PLAYING GUITAR!!!! What.

[@christianverner4170]

This one isn’t too hard to play and sing simultaneously, but “Rusty Cage” has been deemed impossible by myself. Never gonna be able to mail that shit. Good god.

[@IrishGuitarGaz]

So true. Lots of people can sing and play basic rhythm guitar, but where they usually struggle is when it comes to more complex singing and/or guitar riffs. Chris had an ability to mentally separate his vocal control from his guitar control; you can sometimes see it on live videos where he's doing a riff mid-song whilst also singing a very challenging and technical piece of a verse or chorus. Add in the fact that Soundgarden also utilised odd time signatures, unusual chord progressions and so on, and it's really astonishing.

[@samswift-glasman8482]

He was the original Sound Garden drummer as well. He didn't even rate his own voice

[@samswift-glasman8482]

He was the original drummer too! He didn't even rate himself as a singer believe it or not

[@WorkFromYourLaptop]

The more I listen to this girl the more in love with her I am. Her analysis is so passionate. Love it.

[@DigitalJeremy]

Well said. She's incredibly insightful.

[@joe6700]

She is legit. I like how she picks up on details that I know because I've listened to this song for 25 year on the first listen but she still gives insight on things I didn't know. I wish she would have done the album version though cause IMO its better than this alternate version.

[@ToxicTater904-TTV]

When I was younger I didn't appreciate the vocal talents of Chris Cornell honestly. As I grew up and began to sing myself, his control and range has helped be in ways in improving my own voice. And the uniqueness off his voice is probably my favorite part. his music has gotten me thru so many rough times. He is my idol. RIP Chris Cornell 💪🙌

[@chadgray8202]

I was 18 when this song came out and dealing with depression...and after a lifetime of dealing with that and ptsd this song still carries so much weight for me.

[@pdxplex]

Will forever appreciate this man for putting words down and tying them to music that I can listen to in my worst hour. Black Days is an incredible artistic portrayal of depression that's accessible to anyone who listens to it. One day you're happy, the next day you aren't.

[@konradson]

I was able to see Soundgarden life, while touring with Black Sabbath, 4th July 2014 at Hyde Park, with Soulfly, Motörhead and Faith No More. What a great day in London it was!

[@Atomicron1]

God it's so nice to hear genuine feedback from professionals on powerful material like this track, but it's a straight up serotonin flood to watch them GET it. Like, she felt every ounce of that song, and watching this realtime reaction is extremely rewarding somehow. 😂

[@jeffreymills2402]

This was Chris expressing his pain. All for entertainment. It is so sad that we cannot see that for what it is. A great loss of a human.

[@sullyb23511]

It kills me to know that he couldn't find it in himself to stick around. 😕

[@4578thomas]

Like a Stone by Audioslave is one of my absolute favorite Chris Cornell songs.

[@russellward4624]

I love the bass on this song. Great choices. It's in the background so you don't notice it unless you listen but once you do you can't not hear it.

[@itswhip]

I went from loving this song back in the mid-90's to skipping it any time I hear it, from exhaustive radio play, but hearing your analysis and watching your reactions to it have somehow breathed the life back into this old song

[@leviathan3630]

sometimes not listening to the radio is a good thing

[@itswhip]

@@leviathan3630 I don't think I've listened to much FM radio since 2006, but before then radio was king.

[@SwitchedOn]

I usually drop off of songs, even great ones if I over hear them. But this song is so beautiful, whenever it comes on my shuffle it’s full volume and sing along. I’ll never tire of it.

[@davidriddick82]

I think you would love OUTSHINED by Soundgarden, it’s not super complex but Chris hits these amazing upper register growls and his iconic shrieks so to speak… RIP to a legend, this is another vocalist I miss 🌹🔥

[@pumkinheadfanvhsforever6087]

I'd vote for that as well. In a way it ties back to the Temple of the Dog that has had a song previously reacted to on here as well. In one way or another the foundation of the grunge movement came out of the sudden passing of Mother Love Bone's Lead Singer Andrew Wood. Not only was he Chris Cornell's roommate and hung out in the same circles with Pearl Jam and Mudhoney. His tragic passing would be used by Wood's friends and fans for the years to come as a reminder of drug addition and the toll it takes on the individual using them.

[@linksbetweendrinks7032]

Chris Cornell was the last of the grunge Gods. And grunge itself deserves the introspective that you give to it; because there is a style to it despite it's desire to inherently reject categorization. You're doing grunge justice. Thanks.

[@audiogarden21]

Soundgarden saved my life with this album, and this song specifically. I was 11 when this album released and was in a particularly depressive state filled with suicidal thoughts for reasons I won't go into here, but this song made me realize that I wasn't the only one. Soundgarden has been my favorite band ever since, and this song, well... I owe it everything...

[@nose-bleed]

It's my favorite band ever, I would love to see you react to more of them in the future ❤

[@TiesSaalmink]

same :)

[@SupernoidOcelot]

"Slaves and Bulldozers" is my pick for Chris's most unbelievable vocal. I saw them live in 2013 and they actually ended the concert with it. I couldn't believe it! One of the most manic vocals imaginable.

[@ajrob77]

Yes!!! I second this!!!

[@ilspeth99]

Agreed.

[@stuartu7150]

I highly recommend “The Day I Tried to Live”. By far my favorite Soundgarden song, especially for Cornell’s performance. The music, the lyrics and the video are all haunting.

[@jess.of.suburbia]

The line "hands are for shaking, not tying" now breaks my heart so much.

[@moistcheezits1101]

I remember doing a report on this song for my Highschool Literature class,.I was very depressed at that point in my life and this song made such an impression on me and really helped me out, it is such. A beautiful song

[@TheBS1000]

How did you do on the report?

[@chunki6793]

Would love to see a Jeff Buckley analysis, one of Chris' good friends A distinctive voice, similar power and emotional intensity but post grunge and very different to chris. Grace live on the BBC would be a good pick

[@thebooger_boy4002]

This needs more likes!

[@Cquinncer]

Absolutely fantastic shout! Buckley is right by the side of Cornell as my favourite vocalist of all-time and that BBC live performance is one of the greats.

[@handsomerube]

I’m genuinely surprised she hadn’t done anything from Jeff yet. Long overdue.

[@antdujar]

Heavily agreed!

[@MrAyla]

I agree. He was a magician

[@strangequark420]

This band's sound represented a moment for Gen X, because it was in the background as we entered our mid 20's. Those of us who were a few years into our working careers (what do you mean I can't take 3 months off in the summer?) were indeed looking at life a little differently than we were prior. Every generation goes through that moment, but there was something about the pop and alternative music at that moment in history for us that carried our hearts. Edit: for me, anyway, 1994 was a happy year, so it was nice to have something depressing like Soundgarden with it. :)

[@lastborn11]

This being one of my favorite songs culminated in a special memory when Soundgarden played Red Rocks the day after Chris Cornell’s 50th birthday…after hearing happy b- day sung in volume in the haunting echo of a natural amphitheater… “Fell on Black Days “ was the song played following that rousing break … its performance was the most emotional and powerful version I’ve heard … after “sure don’t mind the change” rung out the roar of the crowd went to fever pitch the energy levels just went up from their… Legendary!

[@xmobstersal4167]

Chris Cornell is the one who got me to sing! I loved to sing his songs back when this was coming out and projecting the feeling of the songs he did. So much feeling and his voice is so moving. He taught me breath control before there was all these teachers around. Great job 👍👍👍 I love all of your videos honestly.

[@kryslow]

He and Vedder, who were like brothers, both bring gut wrenching emotion to their music. I have a playlist of those two bands that can put me in and pull me out of a depressive state at the drop of note! The tying Matt Cameron in as drummer for both. Both bands are/were exceptionally talented.

[@steveschoenlein4161]

The vibe he gave off, chester was the same as well. They spoke. Not many listened. Their hearts were broken. I love them so much.

[@MichaelGalok]

Thank you, Thanks You, THANK YOU! I was in high school when this song came out. I was always blown away with how talented the whole band was and it's easy to just get lost in Chris's vocals and take parts of this performance for granted. You've given me a whole new perspective on this song, which decades later, I didn't think was possible. Listening to the vocals while paying more attention to the poetry of the lyrics, you are absolutely right, this song completely captures what Depression is like. I've been managing my depression for 15 years. I was a fan of this song long before I had my first bouts with depression, and now it has a whole new meaning for me. Even parts of the performance, you can see Chris's face and you almost get the feeling like he's on auto pilot sometimes, especially that last line "Sure don't mind the change". He's got a distant look reminiscent of a disassociative episode which can happen while dealing with depression. You go about doing what you need to do, your body is there, but your mind isn't. It's a very haunting feeling and he captures that so perfectly. I was lucky enough to see Soundgarden during one of their final tours. There was a teenager in the audience holding a sign which read, "May I play guitar with you during 'Black Hole Sun'?" Chris looked at him and shook his head no and mouthed the word "sorry" regretfully. Then he saw how dejected the boy looked and changed his mind. He brought him up on stage, handed him the guitar and said, "That's the guitar this song was written on... don't mess up" The kid nailed it and you can tell that was the greatest moment of this young persons life. I sorely miss Chris not just for his talent, but for what a kind and giving person he was. Thank you for taking me on this journey, re-experiencing this track that I love so much as, if I were listening to it again for the first time. P.S. I bought a "Spoiled by Metal" shirt from your store for a friend who used to work at a hard rock station in college. She absolutely loves it, so thank you for that as well!

[@andremunari3639]

I was lucky to see Chris performing live an acoustic version of this song that is also amazing. Excellent choice Elizabeth! I'm sure that this fantastic community will enjoy another reaction of Chris unique voice.

[@thomasmoore3037]

I saw him play this acoustic as well. He had another person playing cello, it was haunting and amazing. Whenever I hear this song my mind adds in cello, it gave the song even more emotion!

[@andremunari3639]

@@thomasmoore3037 I saw this version too, Thomas! The guy playing cello is Bryan Gibson, a fantastic musician. You can check Elizabeth's reaction of Chris version for Nothing Compares 2 U on the channel. Bryan is there with his cello! Amazing version too!

[@jc6477]

You must react to “Slaves & Bulldozers”… easily Chris Cornell’s finest vocal performance.

[@bribro6042]

Such an underappreciated song it seems. I don't know if it's the title or what but no one will react to it LOL. Merry Christmas.

[@cieloinunastanza6854]

I think Chris Cornell most impressive performance with Soundgarden is 'Holy Water".

[@nontologicalbeing]

I wouldn't say easily, lol. There are a LOT of contenders, but it is absolutely one of the best

[@WiserInTime]

I heard "Slaves and Bulldozers" then I hear "Sunshower" and wonder how is this the same person? Both great performances.

[@ryanmarquardt7583]

"Shadow on the Sun" by Audioslave has to be my favorite Chris vocal... absolutely amazing and haunting. So painful.

[@FullMoonGravity]

The first time I saw Soundgarden, they opened for Skid Row. Cornell was doing stage dives into the audience from the top of a 30 foot high speaker stack. I thought he must be insane. They just blew me away. The last time I saw Chris Cornell was in Nashville, TN at the War Memorial. He came out with a bar stool and an acoustic guitar and played songs from Soundgarden, Audioslave, and Temple of the Dog. This man played and sang and you didn't miss any of the rest of those bands. I just sat there with my mouth open in awe. Thanks for that 3 hours of enlightment, Chris. The world misses you.

[@jebjab22]

To really appreciate the beautiful genius Chris Cornell was, watch his live performance of "When I'm Down" at the Troubadour. It will blow your mind. There will never be another C.C. No one sings like you anymore.

[@BruHed]

Thank you so much for saying what I have felt about Chris's voice for so long! But the main question is exactly HOW was he able to achieve such controlled distortion? It's almost like a guitar with a fuzz pedal that he can turn on and off and at any level. Just so unique, even in metal/grunge. Saw him live for an acoustic show and it was actually better than with a full band because the vocal nuances were even more apparent and stunning. Truly a master; the world is lessened without his further contribution. Thank you again for another amazing job!

[@jimmyasbell261]

His intensity when singing brings out the emotion he's trying to convey. Look into his eyes and the expression on his face. It is as if he is reliving what he is singing in that very moment. He probably was.