The world lost Chester and Chris in a matter of months. Both were talented artists and had a very big footprint in the music scene. They also struggled with mental health which came with very big consequences. Chester, two months before his death had found the courage to perform at his friend’s funeral.
Chris Cornell struggled with depression for most of his life. He was found dead in his hotel room on May 18, 2017. Prior to his death, he had also performed at a Soundgarden Concert. Chris Cornell was laid to rest during a private funeral that was held at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Forever Cemetery. As part of the service, Chris’ friend Chester Bennington and godfather to one of Cornell’s children sang the song ‘Hallelujah’.
Bennington shared his message to the world the day news of Cornell’s death broke. He shared his message on Twitter. He wrote,
“I’m still weeping, with sadness, as well as gratitude for having shared some very special moments with you and your beautiful family,” the singer wrote. “You have inspired me in ways you could never have know.”
“Your talent was pure and unrivaled. Your voice was joy and pain, anger and forgiveness, love and heartache all wrapped up into one. I supposed that’s what we all are. You helped me understand that,” he continued. “I can’t imagine a world without you in it. I pray you find peace in the next life.”
Bennington was several of the notable musicians who participated in Cornell’s funeral. Other musicians who appeared were the singer’s former bandmates Kim Thayil, Matt Cameron, and Tom Morello. Metallica’s James Hetfield, Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl, and many others also appeared at the funeral.
Less than 2 months later, Chester Bennington himself was found dead from an apparent suicide. He was in a brittle state after his friend’s passing. He left the world leaving behind his wife Talinda Bentley and his six children. He paid tribute to his friend on Jimmy Kimmel Live too.
“We were going to come out and play ‘Heavy’ first, In light of our dear friend Chris Cornell passing away, we decided to play our song, ‘One More Light’… We love you, Chris,” He said.
Bennington was battling with depression himself during that time. He also had trouble with alcoholism. After some time, Bennington performed the song ‘Hallelujah’ by Leonard Cohen. He was assisted by guitarist Brad Delson. The private service was very emotional. Not less than two months later, Bennington was also found dead. He died on the day of Cornell’s 53rd birthday.
Watch Bennington and Brad’s tribute down below.
