Soundgarden's Kim Thayil Plans 2026 Memoir on Band's Rise Seattle Grunge

Kim Thayil, founding guitarist of the iconic grunge band Soundgarden, has announced his memoir titled "A Screaming Life: Into the Superunknown with Soundgarden and Beyond," set for release on May 19, 2026, through HarperCollins. The book chronicles Thayil's life from his upbringing as an American son of Indian immigrants in Chicago, to his move to Seattle with bassist Hiro Yamamoto, another immigrant's son, where they helped shape the Seattle music scene and co-founded Soundgarden with Chris Cornell. The memoir explores the band's evolution from underground punk clubs to worldwide success, highlighting the unique cultural influences of Thayil's Indian heritage and Yamamoto's Japanese background on their music and industry experiences. Thayil also delves into the brotherhood and challenges within the band, offering behind-the-scenes insights into their creative journey and the rise of grunge. The memoir's release coincides with Soundgarden's upcoming induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, marking a significant moment in the band's legacy. This intimate narrative promises to provide fans and alternative rock enthusiasts a deeper understanding of Soundgarden's impact on music and culture.