Today, July 20th, would've been Chris Cornell's 54th birthday. His wife, Vicky Cornell, used to occasion to formally announced that a statue honoring the late Soundgarden and Audioslave frontman will be unveiled next month in his home city of Seattle.
Sculptor Nick Marras was comissioned to create a bronze statue showcasing one of Cornell's signature poses with his boots, dog tags and hair on display. Vickie donated the sculpture to Seattle's Museum of Pop Culture, where it will be unveiled on August 29th.
"Even though Chris' music touched the lives of millions around the world, there is no better place than Seattle to honor and celebrate both his contribution to music history, as well as Seattle's unique place in popular music, with an enduring symbol of a beloved artist, father, and husband," said Vicky Cornell. "Our children and I are deeply moved by the continued outpouring of love, compassion, and support, and this is our gift to the Museum of Pop Culture and to Seattle – our gift back to the tight-knit community that gave him his start."
"MoPOP is honored to receive this gift from the Cornell family and pay tribute to one of the most powerful and important voices in popular music," says Jasen Emmons, Artistic Director, MoPOP. "MoPOP serves to celebrate the Seattle music scene and the luminaries who have emerged from the Northwest and Chris was a key figure who has made a lasting impact on generations worldwide."
Rest in power, Chris.