Rage Against the Machine / Audioslave drummer Brad Wilk has paid tribute to his late bandmate Chris Cornell. Wilk shared a photo of himself and Cornell hugging, adding, “The sadness of you leaving I can not begin to describe here.”

Audioslave formed in 2001 out of the ashes of Rage Against the Machine and Soundgarden, both of which had broken up. The band’s 2002 self-titled debut was a massive success, spawning tracks like “Cochise,” “Show Me How to Live” and “Like a Stone.” The album sold over three million copies in the U.S. and the band’s final two releases, 2005’s Out of Exile and 2006’s Revelations, went platinum and gold, respectively.

After the band broke up in 2007, it took 10 years for a reunion to happen. Audioslave performed a single show at the Anti-Inaugural Ball, protesting then-president elect Donald Trump. Cornell left the potential for more Audioslave gigs open, but it would never come to pass.

Brad Wilk memorialized Chris Cornell with the Instagram post:

The sadness of you leaving I can not begin to describe here. So close to home. I was in awe of your talent. The time I was able to spend with you, which was not enough, I will forever cherish. At your core you were a smart, sweet and gentle soul. This is how I will always remember you. Love you Chris. Hard to believe this picture marks the last time I will ever see you here on earth.

Audioslave guitarist Tom Morello also paid loving tribute to Cornell with an Instagram post. For more news, tributes and more Chris Cornell coverage, stay tuned to Loudwire.

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