Thank you for allowing Chris’s fans to write our tribute to him. I’m a fan and never met him, although I did see him perform live several times, both with Soundgarden and solo. It’s hard for me to put into words what Chris’s music did, does and will always mean to me. I can only describe it by saying that his music moves me. It went beyond the music though.  He as a person was someone who touched my life despite never meeting him. There was just something about him that drew me in. Chris was an amazing man, musician, philanthropist, and most of all he seems to have been an amazing family man who loved his wife and children beyond words.

When I heard of his passing early that morning, I felt as if I had lost a very important person in my life. There’s the music of course and knowing that I’ll never hear new material and will never see him perform again. On a deeper level, how he died was an arrow through my heart. I too am the daughter of someone who took their life. I know how his children feel and what they are going through. My heart goes out to all three of his children, as well as his wife Vicky.  I’m a big believer in that everything happens for a reason…good, bad or ugly. While I struggle to understand why, I’m grateful that Chris was here for as long as he was and for his gift of music to me, and I do truly think it’s a gift. His music has helped heal me through trying times. His music has given me joy during good times. For that I’m forever grateful.  

You are missed by so many Chris, especially your loving family. I pray that you are finally at peace and I know that you are watching over your family. Prayers to Vicky, Lily, Toni and C, and to all of his family and friends.

Dory