On Wednesday night we lost Chris Cornell, one of the world's most talented and influential rock musicians. His death sent a ripple across all genres of music, including country. Cody Jinks and Paul Cauthen, two of the boldest voices out of Texas, were among the many country artists heavily inspired by Cornell's music.
"I'm heartbroken along with many thousands of people who woke up today and realized Cornell is still gone," Jinks wrote on YouTube.
Jinks and Cauthen met on Thursday to commemorate Cornell's music and life. Their time together included this powerful recording of "Black Hole Sun," a song Cornell wrote with Soundgarden.
Backed only by a piano, Jinks and Cauthen sync up their rich baritones to deliver a unique cover of this grunge classic. We've never heard a duet between these two artists before, but now we're hoping for more.
If you're a fan of Jinks and Cauthen's cover of "Black Hole Sun," be sure to check out Jinks' recent version of Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here."
On Thursday, officials ruled Cornell's death a suicide. The singer reportedly hung himself following a Wednesday night show in Detroit, Mich. His death came as a shock to everyone, including his family.
His wife Vicky Cornell issued a statement on Friday morning that suggested his suicide may have stemmed from anxiety medication.
"When we spoke after the show, I noticed he was slurring his words; he was different," Vicky wrote. "When he told me he may have taken an extra Ativan or two, I contacted security and asked that they check on him." She added, "What happened is inexplicable and I am hopeful that further medical reports will provide additional details. I know that he loved our children and he would not hurt them by intentionally taking his own life."
Cornell left a significant imprint on the world of country music, inspiring everyone from Johnny Cash to Jason Aldean.
