At the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2025 Induction Ceremony on November 8, 2025, Brandi Carlile delivered a stunning performance of Soundgarden’s iconic hit “Black Hole Sun.” The night honored the legendary Seattle grunge band as they were officially inducted, with surviving members Kim Thayil, Matt Cameron, Ben Shepherd, and Hiro Yamamoto taking the stage.
Brandi stepped into the lead vocal role once held by the late Chris Cornell, bringing her own soulful intensity while staying true to the haunting tone of the original. She was joined by rock heavyweights Jerry Cantrell of Alice in Chains and Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, whose guitars added rich texture to the live sound, while Taylor Momsen also lent her voice in support.
The stage lighting was simple yet powerful, casting silhouettes that amplified the song’s emotional gravity. As Brandi’s voice soared through the chorus — “Black hole sun, won’t you come” — the crowd was visibly moved, honoring both the legacy of Soundgarden and the memory of Cornell.
The performance perfectly balanced reverence and strength, capturing the spirit of grunge and the timelessness of the song. Following the set, Soundgarden’s members reflected on their journey and paid tribute to their late frontman, marking the performance as one of the most heartfelt and unforgettable moments of the evening — a true celebration of rock history and enduring artistry.
