Dec. 15, 2024 | Seattle, WA
The surviving members of Soundgarden reunited on December 14, 2024, to deliver a powerful performance at the 13th annual SMooCH benefit concert, held at the iconic Showbox in Seattle. Joined by local luminaries like Duff McKagan and Shaina Shepherd, the event raised over $2.2 million for Seattle Children’s Hospital’s uncompensated care fund, continuing a holiday tradition that has generated over $30 million since its inception.
This reunion, their first Seattle performance together since Chris Cornell’s passing in 2017, was as emotional as it was heavy. The trio of Kim Thayil, Matt Cameron, and Ben Shepherd performed under their prior 2010 alias, Nudedragons, reminding fans why Soundgarden were so influential in the surge of ‘grunge music’ in the early 1990’s.
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A Night Fueled by Nostalgia and Love
Opening their six-song set with “Hunted Down” from their Sub Pop debut Screaming Life, the band wasted no time reminding the packed venue of their raw, uncompromising energy. Shaina Shepherd, an established voice in the Seattle music scene (https://www.instagram.com/shainashepherdmusic/), stepped into the spotlight as a guest vocalist, channeling the spirit of Cornell with commanding stage presence and an incredible vocal range. From the haunting “Flower” to the thunderous “Outshined”, the band’s setlist bridged their earliest days with the enduring power of their Superunknown-era classics.
Later in the evening, another seattle native stepped up to help with vocalist duties. they were joined by Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan for a blistering rendition of “Kickstand”and an electrifying cover of MC5’s “Kick Out the Jams”. The collaborations added a celebratory vibe to the evening, highlighting the communal spirit of Seattle’s music scene.
Beyond the Music: Charitable origins
While the performance was a gift to longtime fans, the heart of the night lay in its mission: raising funds for families burdened by overwhelming medical costs. Hosted by KEXP’s John Richards and supported by the Nordstrom family, the SMooCH concert series continues to be a cornerstone of charitable giving in the Pacific Northwest.
Works Cited
- “Soundgarden Reunion at SMooCH 2024” – Seattle Times, Michael Rietmulder
- Billboard Chart Data for Soundgarden
- Sub Pop Records: Artist Profile on Soundgarden
- SMooCH Benefit Concert History – Seattle Children’s Hospital
- Band Photo & show announcement/Shaina Shepherd’s instagram page – https://www.instagram.com/shainashepherdmusic/
- youtube recording of performance – @nigelpoll – https://www.youtube.com/@nigelpoll
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