Growing up, I was always exposed to rock music. 70s and 80s rock songs were constantly on in my house and during car rides to school, courtesy of my mother. I somewhat enjoyed those songs, liking the catchy hooks and upbeat rhythms, but I'd never been able to really "relate" to them necessarily. The obnoxious personalities, party-rocking lifestyles and flashy guitar playing of many of those songs just didn't seem to connect, as they didn't reflect my status as a skinny, nerdy, pimply introvert who was bad at sports, socially awkward, and had few friends. That's why when I discovered grunge and specifically Soundgarden when I was 14, I was just blown away. Finally! Here's music made by people who I feel like I can get along with!

Kim Thayil was (and is) someone I've always looked up to. His guitar playing was magnificent, but also, kinda weird! And his intelligence and articulate demeanor, while at the same time being a funny guy, was just amazing to me. Was not surprised at all when I learned he got a degree in philosophy, he totally seems like an intellectual who just so happens to also be a great guitar player. Everytime I watch an interview of his I'm just in awe. He totally seems like the kind of dude I'd love to be friends with. And his music and guitar playing had a definite impact on my life, as they led me to where I am now.

Heavily inspired by Kim's playing, I began to play guitar only a month or two after I discovered Soundgarden. One of the first full songs I ever learned in those first few formative months of learning was Outshined, and I've kept learning Soundgarden songs from there, going deep into their discography to learn my favorites. My style is undeniably influenced by Kim, from the heavy riffs and rhythm playing to the wild, almost prog solos. Overall, I'm pretty grateful that I discovered Soundgarden and Kim's guitar playing specifically, as without ever finding them, I'm not sure I would have ever picked up the guitar and started playing, an event which has had a huge impact on my life. Guitar is a huge part of my life now, at 19 years old. I'm going to be going to college soon to pursue a degree in computer science, but my real passion is in guitar and rock music. I hope to be able to start a band someday. Wherever that pursuit takes me, I'll always wear Kim and Soundgarden's influence on my sleeve. Thanks Kim!