In a strong new partnership aimed toward uplifting the psychological well being and well-being of music creators, Reigning Phoenix Music and MusiCares have launched King Ultramega — a daring, all-star tribute undertaking celebrating the legacy of the late Chris Cornell. The undertaking kicks off with a thunderous reimagining of Soundgarden‘s “Rusty Cage”, obtainable now by way of Reigning Phoenix Music.
King Ultramega options a formidable lineup of rock and metallic legends, this time uniting William DuVall of Alice In Chains on vocals, Invoice Kelliher of Mastodon on guitar, Mark Menghi of Metallic Allegiance on bass, and Charlie Benante of Anthrax and Pantera on drums.
With every single, King Ultramega will rotate its lineup to highlight completely different artists, drawing from Cornell‘s intensive catalog throughout Soundgarden, Audioslave, Temple of the Canine, and his solo work. Proceeds from each launch will go on to MusiCares, the Recording Academy’s nonprofit offering very important psychological well being, restoration, and emergency assist companies to the music neighborhood.
William DuVall delivers a vocal efficiency that honors Cornell‘s iconic vary with out overshadowing it, choosing subtlety and emotional honesty. “I simply leaned into my love for the music and my immense respect for Chris,” he mentioned. “For the reason that instrumental observe Invoice, Charlie, and Mark despatched hewed so intently to the unique, I believed it greatest for me to remain in that ballpark as nicely.”
Initially recorded 5 years in the past throughout lockdown, the observe was by no means supposed for something greater than a social media submit — however with this official launch, it has been repurposed for a higher trigger.
Theresa Wolters, Interim Government Director of MusiCares, emphasised the emotional weight behind the undertaking: “Chris Cornell’s voice and presence meant a lot to so many, together with all of us at MusiCares. He and his family members have lengthy championed the significance of our work, and it is deeply significant to see his legacy proceed by means of a undertaking that brings connection, consciousness, and hope to the music neighborhood.”
Future releases will proceed to reinterpret Cornell‘s physique of labor with new collaborators, shining mild on his genius whereas elevating consciousness and funds for psychological well being companies that stay important for artists in at this time’s trade.
Whether or not you are a longtime fan of Cornell or discovering his music by means of this reimagining, King Ultramega delivers each a heartfelt homage and a much-needed push for change in how the music world helps its personal.
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