The Making of Superunknown by Soundgarden

Introduction

Released on March 8, 1994, Superunknown by Soundgarden is a monumental album in the history of rock music. As the band’s fourth studio album, it not only propelled Soundgarden into the mainstream but also helped define the grunge movement of the 1990s. This article will explore the album’s genesis, recording process, commercial performance, and lasting legacy.

Before we delve into the details, here’s a quick overview of Superunknown:

The impact of Superunknown was profound. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, and its singles, such as “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman,” received critical acclaim and Grammy Awards. Chris Cornell, the band’s frontman, once remarked, “This album allowed us to express a broader range of our musical influences.” Indeed, the album’s enduring significance lies in its innovative sound and introspective lyrics, which continue to resonate with audiences today.

The Genesis of “Superunknown”

The early 1990s were a vibrant time for rock music, especially in Seattle, where the grunge movement was taking root. Soundgarden, having released their previous album Badmotorfinger in 1991, was already a prominent figure in this burgeoning scene. However, they sought to expand their musical horizons with Superunknown.

Soundgarden’s evolution leading up to Superunknown was marked by their desire to experiment with new sounds and styles. Their earlier works laid the groundwork, but it was this album that truly showcased their versatility. The band members, including Chris Cornell, Kim Thayil, Ben Shepherd, and Matt Cameron, played crucial roles in crafting the album’s unique sound.

Here is a breakdown of the band members and their roles:

The recording costs for Superunknown were substantial, but A&M Records provided the necessary financial backing. The album’s title, as Chris Cornell explained, was inspired by a misreading of a video title. The artwork, created by Kevin Westenberg, reflects the album’s themes of darkness and mystery, featuring a distorted image of the band against a burning forest backdrop.

Recording Process

Recording Superunknown was a meticulous process, taking place from July to September 1993 at Bad Animals Studio in Seattle. The studio, known for its state-of-the-art facilities, provided the perfect environment for Soundgarden to experiment with their sound.

Michael Beinhorn, the album’s producer, was instrumental in shaping the final product. His previous work with bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers brought a fresh perspective to the sessions. The recording process involved layering multiple guitar tracks and experimenting with different sounds to achieve the album’s rich texture.

Below is a table of the likely hardware used during the recording sessions, based on the studio’s known capabilities at the time:

Despite the intense focus on production, the band faced challenges. Cornell once noted, “By the time you get the sounds you want, you’re tired of playing the song.” Yet, these efforts paid off, resulting in an album that remains a cornerstone of rock music.

Michael Beinhorn’s discography is extensive, showcasing his versatility as a producer. Here’s a selection of albums he produced:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, Superunknown was a commercial triumph, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. It sold 310,000 copies in its first week alone. This success was mirrored globally, with the album topping charts in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

The album’s place in Soundgarden’s discography is significant, as it marked their transition from cult favourites to mainstream rock icons. Here’s a table summarising Soundgarden’s studio albums:

Superunknown garnered numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards for “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman.” Its critical reception was overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it one of the best albums of the 1990s.

In 1994, other notable albums included:

• Grace by Jeff Buckley
• MTV Unplugged in New York by Nirvana
• Vitalogy by Pearl Jam

The album’s influence extended beyond its initial release, impacting bands like Alice in Chains and Pearl Jam. Indeed, 1994 was a pivotal year for heavy music, marked by releases from Nine Inch Nails, Pantera, and Korn, among others.

Track Analysis

Superunknown featured five singles, each contributing to the album’s success. These singles included “Spoonman,” “The Day I Tried to Live,” “Black Hole Sun,” “My Wave,” and “Fell on Black Days.”

Here’s a detailed table of the album’s tracks and their writing credits:

*Indicates singles. Notably, “Black Hole Sun” reached number one on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.

Song Meaning and Lyrics

The singles from Superunknown delve into profound themes. “Spoonman” celebrates individuality and artistry, inspired by the street performer Artis the Spoonman. Its lyrics highlight the beauty of unconventional expression.

“The Day I Tried to Live” explores existential struggles and the desire to break free from isolation. Chris Cornell described it as a hopeful attempt to engage with life, despite personal challenges.

“Black Hole Sun,” perhaps the most iconic track, juxtaposes serene melodies with dark, surreal lyrics. Cornell’s stream-of-consciousness approach resulted in a song that remains open to interpretation.

For more on the singles’ meanings, visit Song Meanings and Facts.

Touring and Promotion of Superunknown

To promote Superunknown, Soundgarden embarked on an extensive tour. Their performances were known for their intensity and energy, captivating audiences worldwide. Music videos for singles like “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman” received heavy rotation on MTV, further boosting the album’s visibility.

The tour featured numerous shows across North America and Europe, including notable performances at major festivals. Soundgarden shared stages with bands such as Pearl Jam and Neil Young, solidifying their status in the rock world.

During the 1994 tour, Soundgarden performed over 100 shows, with highlights including their set at the Reading Festival in the UK. The tour was not without its challenges, but it was instrumental in cementing the band’s legacy.

Influences and Legacy

Soundgarden’s Superunknown was influenced by a wide range of musical styles, from heavy metal to psychedelia. Bands like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath played a role in shaping their sound, as did the grunge scene in Seattle.

Here’s a table illustrating these influences:

In 1994, the world witnessed significant cultural and global events. The Channel Tunnel opened, connecting England and France, while films like The Lion King and Forrest Gump dominated cinemas. These events contributed to the vibrant cultural landscape in which Superunknown thrived.

Five Things about Superunknown

Here are five fascinating facts about Superunknown:

Media and Television Usage

Soundgarden’s music has been featured in various media. Here’s a table of songs from Superunknown used in TV shows and films:

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Superunknown received widespread acclaim upon its release. Publications praised its innovation and depth, highlighting its impact on the grunge genre.

Here’s a table of critical reviews:

After Superunknown

Following the success of Superunknown, Soundgarden released Down on the Upside in 1996. However, tensions within the band led to their disbandment in 1997. They reunited in 2010, releasing King Animal in 2012.

Tragically, Chris Cornell passed away in 2017, casting uncertainty over the band’s future. Despite this, Soundgarden’s legacy endures, with their music continuing to inspire new generations of artists.

Remasters and Reissues

The 20th-anniversary reissue of Superunknown was released in 2014, featuring remastered audio and additional content. It was available in various formats, including a Super Deluxe Edition with rare demos and a 5.1 Surround Sound mix.

Here’s a table of the reissues:

Conclusion

Superunknown remains a vital part of rock music history. Its innovative sound and introspective lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, proving its lasting impact. As Soundgarden’s most successful album, it solidified their place in the music world and influenced countless artists.

For further reading, explore our own articles on similar artists and albums:

• The Making of Core by Stone Temple Pilots (Blog)
• The Making of Vs. by Pearl Jam (Blog)
• The Making of Like an Ever Flowing Stream by Dismember (Blog)

Additional resources include the Wikipedia page for “Superunknown”, the Official Soundgarden website, and the Record label’s website.

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Superunknown by Soundgarden. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!