A Chris Cornell Tribute From An Unlikely Source

The shock of Chris Cornell's death on the morning of May 18th after Soundgarden's performance at Detroit's Fox Theatre is still fresh.  Chris was one of the most influential musicians in the last decade of the 20th century. Along with Kurt Cobain and Eddie Vedder, his voice defined the genre that became known as "grunge".

As one might expect, rockers from all genres offered condolences and/or on-stage tributes.  Jimmy Page, Eddie Vedder, Elton John, Dave Navarro, Ann & Nancy Wilson, and Mark Ronson all have paid their respects.

One of the most poignant tributes we have found comes from an artist whose music could not be further removed from grunge. She's a 9-time Grammy winner who's made her living playing breezy, jazzy songs like "Don't Know Why" which in 2003 won Grammys for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

So when Norah Jones sat down at her piano at the Fox Theatre less than a week after Chris' death, attendees were probably wondering what she would say on the subject. No doubt sensing the gravity of the moment, Norah chose to do what she does best--sing. Her stripped-down, contemplative rendition of "Black Hole Sun" is a marvel.  Respects beautifully paid.