Throughout their career, Audioslave achieved commercial success, with their first two albums charting highly and receiving critical acclaim. Their unique fusion of styles, combining the powerful vocals of Chris Cornell with the hard-hitting sound of Rage Against the Machine, earned them multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group for their song “Like a Stone.” Despite their short-lived career, their music continues to influence new generations of rock fans.
Chris Cornell
Chris Cornell, the lead vocalist and one of the founding members of Audioslave, was brought in to form the band in 2001 after the breakup of Soundgarden. His powerful voice became the defining feature of Audioslave’s sound. Cornell’s songwriting contributions, particularly in hits like “Like a Stone” and “I Am the Highway,” became central to the band’s identity. His ability to blend emotional depth with hard rock elements made Audioslave stand out in the rock landscape. He played on all three of the band’s studio albums, and his distinctive voice, which had previously defined Soundgarden’s grunge sound, was seamlessly integrated into the more polished and hard-edged style of Audioslave.
After leaving Audioslave in 2007, Cornell pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums like Euphoria Morning (1999) and Scream (2009), as well as reuniting with Soundgarden for a new album and tour in the 2010s. Tragically, Cornell passed away in 2017, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most powerful and versatile voices in rock history.
Tom Morello
Tom Morello, guitarist for Audioslave, was known for his distinctive and innovative guitar playing that combined heavy riffs with experimental sounds. Prior to Audioslave, Morello was a member of Rage Against the Machine, and his signature use of effects and unconventional playing techniques were key elements in Audioslave’s sound. Joining the band in 2001, Morello brought his unique style to Audioslave, contributing to the band’s hard rock, alternative metal sound. His guitar work on songs like “Like a Stone” and “Show Me How to Live” became iconic, blending aggressive riffs with melodic sensibilities that complemented Cornell’s powerful vocals.
Outside of Audioslave, Morello is known for his activism and his work with Rage Against the Machine. He also has a solo career under the name The Nightwatchman, where he incorporates his political views into his music. Morello’s extensive influence in rock, both as a guitarist and a social activist, remains undeniable.
Tim Commerford
Tim Commerford, the bassist and backing vocalist of Audioslave, was a key member of Rage Against the Machine before joining Audioslave in 2001. Commerford’s basslines were crucial to the groove-heavy foundation of Audioslave’s sound. His contributions to the band’s rhythm section helped drive songs like “Like a Stone” and “Cochise,” where his bass work served as the backbone of the songs, providing the momentum for Morello’s explosive guitar riffs and Cornell’s vocal melodies. His backing vocals also added depth to the band’s harmonies, further contributing to their distinct sound.
After the disbandment of Audioslave, Commerford returned to his role as the bassist for Rage Against the Machine, continuing to influence the rock world with his hard-hitting basslines and politically charged lyrics. He remains one of the key figures in alternative and hard rock music.
Brad Wilk
Brad Wilk, the drummer for Audioslave, was known for his precise and powerful drumming style. He was previously a member of Rage Against the Machine, and his drumming was a central element of the band’s energetic sound. When Audioslave formed in 2001, Wilk’s drumming helped anchor the band’s heavy rhythm section, and his ability to create intricate yet forceful beats was essential to the group’s success. His work on tracks like “Yesterday to Tomorrow” and “Exploder” showcased his skill in combining hard-hitting rhythms with subtle nuances that allowed the band to explore different musical landscapes.
After Audioslave’s breakup in 2007, Wilk continued to work with his Rage Against the Machine bandmates, and he also played with other projects, including Prophets of Rage. His drumming continues to be influential in the rock genre, and he remains an active member of the rock community.
Jeff Gutt
Jeff Gutt became the lead vocalist for Audioslave in 2017 when the band briefly reunited. His appointment followed the tragic passing of Chris Cornell in 2017. Although Gutt was not part of the original lineup, he became a key figure in the band’s attempt to continue its legacy. His vocals on the band’s reunion work helped to bring a new energy to the group, though the band’s future remains uncertain without Cornell’s iconic voice.
Gutt had previously been a part of the alternative rock scene, having performed with various bands. His addition to Audioslave marked a new chapter, but following the band’s activities in 2017, there has been little news of further projects under the Audioslave name.