Who's behind the notes? Discover Soundgarden: Pioneers of the Seattle Grunge Movement
"Black Hole Sun" is a song by the American rock band Soundgarden. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Release Date: "Black Hole Sun" was released on May 15, 1994, as the third single from Soundgarden's fourth studio album, "Superunknown."
Chart Success: The song became one of Soundgarden's most successful singles. It reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
Grammy Award: "Black Hole Sun" won a Grammy Award in 1995 for Best Hard Rock Performance with Vocal.
Chris Cornell's Inspiration: The lyrics were written by Soundgarden's lead vocalist, Chris Cornell. He has mentioned in interviews that the song's inspiration came from a blend of personal experiences, vivid dreams, and observations of the world around him.
Ambiguous Meaning: The meaning of the song is somewhat ambiguous, and Cornell himself has stated that he prefers not to explain the lyrics, allowing listeners to interpret them in their own way. The surreal and dreamlike imagery in the lyrics has led to various interpretations.
Music Video: The music video for "Black Hole Sun" was directed by Howard Greenhalgh. It features surreal and disturbing imagery, reflecting the somewhat dark and enigmatic nature of the song. The video won several awards, including a MTV Video Music Award for Best Metal/Hard Rock Video.
Album Success: "Superunknown," the album that features "Black Hole Sun," was a critical and commercial success for Soundgarden. It also includes other well-known tracks such as "Spoonman" and "Fell on Black Days."
Cultural Impact: "Black Hole Sun" remains one of the defining songs of the 1990s grunge era. Its popularity has endured over the years, and it is often cited as one of the greatest rock songs of the '90s.
Cover Versions: The song has been covered by various artists across different genres, demonstrating its enduring appeal and influence.
Legacy: "Black Hole Sun" is considered one of Soundgarden's signature songs, and it continues to be a staple on rock radio stations. The band's impact on the alternative rock scene and the success of songs like "Black Hole Sun" contribute to their lasting legacy in the history of rock music.