A Landmark Collaboration Between Reigning Phoenix Music and MusiCares to Support Mental Health in Music
In a bold new project that fuses tribute and purpose, Reigning Phoenix Music and MusiCares have teamed up to launch KING ULTRAMEGA, a powerful musical collective honoring the late Chris Cornell. The initiative kicks off today with the release of a reimagined version of Soundgarden’s iconic track, “Rusty Cage.”
A Supergroup With a Mission
Featuring a rotating lineup of rock and metal legends, KING ULTRAMEGA goes beyond tribute. Each release aims to celebrate Cornell’s enduring influence while raising funds and awareness for MusiCares, the Recording Academy’s nonprofit that provides mental health, addiction recovery, and emergency support for music creators.
“Chris Cornell’s voice and presence meant so much to so many… It’s deeply meaningful to see his legacy continue through a project that brings connection, awareness, and hope to the music community.”
— Theresa Wolters, Interim Executive Director and VP of Health & Human Services, MusiCares
“Rusty Cage” Lineup:
- William DuVall (Alice In Chains) – Vocals
- Bill Kelliher (Mastodon) – Guitars
- Mark Menghi (Metal Allegiance) – Bass
- Charlie Benante (Anthrax, Pantera) – Drums
- Mixed by Josh Wilbur
A Personal, Powerful Interpretation
DuVall brings subtlety and strength to the vocal performance, aiming to honor Cornell’s original without overshadowing it.
“I just leaned into my love for the song and my immense respect for Chris… If this release can help further the good work done by MusiCares, then I’m all for it.”
— William DuVall
The musicians stay faithful to the spirit of the original while injecting their own character—Kelliher’s riff work, Menghi’s swaggering bass tone, and Benante’s explosive yet controlled drumming.
A Movement, Not Just a Tribute
KING ULTRAMEGA is set to release fresh interpretations of songs across Cornell’s catalog—from Soundgarden and Audioslave to Temple of the Dog and his solo work. Each track will feature a unique lineup, and proceeds will benefit MusiCares directly.
Born From Reflection and Resilience
The seeds for KING ULTRAMEGA were planted quietly in 2020, when Menghi and friends first recorded “Rusty Cage” during lockdown. What began as a creative outlet soon grew into a mission.
“It was a trail of events… Chris is one of those dudes—if you cover, you better do it justice.”
— Mark Menghi, founder/producer
The turning point came when Kim Thayil, guitarist and co-founder of Soundgarden, joined the project to re-record one of his own songs.
“I’m super honored to record alongside all the amazing musicians… I’m equally proud that it celebrates Soundgarden in this tribute to the songwriting of Chris.”
— Kim Thayil
More Than Music
For Menghi, the project is deeply personal, shaped by his own journey through mental health struggles.
“I should not be here right now, but I am… I like to think my past trials and tribulations helped me understand Chris just a little.”
The focus was never to reinvent Cornell’s work, but to present it with reverence. Every decision—from song selection to the final mix—was measured by one question: “How would Chris like this?”
What’s Next?
Dozens of tracks are already in production, featuring a staggering lineup of contributors, including Joe Satriani, Alissa White-Gluz, and Kenny Aronoff, among many others. Each brings their unique voice while uniting under a shared vision: to honor the artistry, humanity, and legacy of Chris Cornell.
“KU is just a blip in the Chris Cornell universe… We are a subtle reminder that Chris was a true musical genius.”
— Mark Menghi
Listen, Share, Support
KING ULTRAMEGA’s debut single “Rusty Cage” is available now via Reigning Phoenix Music. Every stream, download, and share supports MusiCares’ vital work.
Categories: King Ultramega, Music, News
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