Chris Cornell, lead vocalist of Soundgarden, Audioslave & Temple of the Dog, dies aged 52

Chris Cornell, who gained fame as the lead singer of Soundgarden and later Audioslave, has died aged 52.

In a statement to the Associated Press, his representative, Brian Bumbery, said Cornell died on Wednesday night in Detroit.

The statement says his death was 'sudden and unexpected' and wife and family were shocked.

The family have asked for privacy.