Hiro Yamamoto

Hiro D. Yamamoto, born on April 13, 1961, is a prominent American bassist renowned for his role as a founding member of the iconic grunge band Soundgarden. Formed in 1984 alongside Kim Thayil and Chris Cornell, Soundgarden quickly rose to fame, becoming a pivotal force in the music scene of the late twentieth century.

After leaving Soundgarden in 1989, Yamamoto embarked on a new musical journey by co-founding the independent rock band Truly. This collaboration with Screaming Trees drummer Mark Pickerel and Robert Roth from The Storybook Krooks showcased his versatility and passion for music.

In 2016, Yamamoto continued to explore new musical avenues by co-founding the surf trio Stereo Donkey, further demonstrating his enduring creativity and adaptability in the ever-evolving music landscape.

His contributions to the music industry were recognized in 2025 when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a founding member of Soundgarden, solidifying his legacy in rock history.