The music community was shocked by the news of rock icon Chris Cornell's passing last week. Artists from all genres shared their sadness over the sudden loss of the 90s grunge pioneer. One of country music's biggest stars also took a moment to remember Cornell's unmistakable voice and immeasurable talents.
During his Holdin' My Own Tour stop in Washington D.C. on May 19, Eric Church paid tribute to the late rock singer-songwriter by covering Soundgarden's "Rusty Cage." Although Church has been including many covers in his three to four hour-long sets, this particular rendition was especially powerful and moving.
Watch it below.
"Rusty Cage" was first released by Cornell's band Soundgarden in 1991. The song, penned by Cornell, became one of the band's signature hits. The track was also covered by Johnny Cash for his 1996 album Unchained. Eric Church's rendition stays close to that version, replacing the intense electric guitar and percussion with rolling acoustic accompaniment.
READ MORE: Chris Cornell's Connection to Country Music
Cornell died just hours after performing a sold out show with Soundgarden at Detroit, Mich.'s Fox Theater. His death has been ruled a suicide, but Cornell's wife has released a statement saying she believes his actions may have been a result of a prescription drug he was using.
Chris Cornell will be laid to rest on Friday, May 26 in Los Angeles. He was 52 years old.
