Ben Shepherd

Ben Shepherd was born in Okinawa, Japan, but spent much of his formative years in Washington State. His passion for music ignited after he watched the iconic Johnny Cash perform on television. Shepherd's early career was marked by his involvement in several punk-rock bands, showcasing his talent and versatility. In 1990, he became the bassist for the renowned rock band Soundgarden, where he not only contributed to their signature sound but also played a pivotal role in the songwriting process.

In 1993, Shepherd expanded his musical repertoire by co-founding a side project called Hater alongside drummer Matt Cameron and guitarist John McBain. This venture allowed him to explore different musical styles while maintaining his connection to the rock genre. After Soundgarden disbanded in 1997, Shepherd faced personal challenges, including battles with addiction, which impacted his career trajectory during that period.

However, the band's reunion in 2010 reignited Shepherd's musical journey. He continued to perform with Soundgarden until the tragic passing of frontman Chris Cornell in 2017. Throughout his career, Ben Shepherd has been recognized for his contributions to alternative rock and has left an indelible mark on the music scene, both as a member of Soundgarden and through his various projects and collaborations.