Did Soundgarden Write Their Own Songs?

Soundgarden is celebrated for its unique sound within the grunge genre, yet many might wonder if the band often relied on external materials or if they primarily wrote their own songs. Over the years, the band has demonstrated a strong inclination towards original compositions, with Chris Cornell often taking the lead in both the writing and performance of their music.

Songwriting in Supertramp

One can draw a parallel with Supertramp, a band known for writing and performing exclusive compositions. Supertramp's "classic" era, spanning from 1974 to 1982, saw all their songs co-credited to the band's two primary singer-songwriters, Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson. However, in reality, collaboration between the two was rare, and the vocalist typically wrote the songs.

Originality and Collaboration in Soundgarden

In stark contrast to Supertramp, Soundgarden is renowned for its original works. Chris Cornell, the lead singer and co-founder of the band, was often the primary contributor to both the music and lyrics. Cornell's songwriter credentials extend beyond his time with Soundgarden, having also penned hit songs for his solo career and other bands like Audioslave. With Cornell's departure, the band's creative process evolved, sometimes involving contributions from other members, particularly in the later stages of their career.

Examples of Team Efforts

While Cornell often led, other members of Soundgarden did contribute to the creative process. For instance, Matt Cameron, originally from Pearl Jam, wrote the music for several songs such as "Mailman" and "Fresh Tendrils." Collaborations with other band members like Kim Thayil, the lead guitarist, also played a significant role. Kim Thayil co-wrote "Limo Wreck" and aided in "Fresh Tendrils."

Notable compositions from Soundgarden include:

"Half and He Down" (composed by Ben Shepherd, the bassist) "Kickstand" (composed by Kim Thayil) "Black Hole Sun," "Spoonman," "The Day I Tried To Live," "4th of July Like a Suicide, She Likes Surprises, Let Me Drown, Fell On Black Days" (all composed entirely by Chris Cornell, both music and lyrics)

This collaboration and individual contribution have helped Soundgarden maintain a distinct and enduring sound within the grunge genre, distinguishing them from other bands of their era. The band's ability to balance creativity and cohesion in their songwriting process has cemented their legacy in the music industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Soundgarden wrote their own songs, and their output is a testament to their creativity and originality. From Chris Cornell's masterful compositions to the occasional contributions from other members, the band's musical journey is a blend of individual genius and cohesive effort. Their unique style and powerful sound continue to resonate with fans and influence musicians today, making them a pivotal force in the grunge genre.