Nirvana: Did You Know?
Nirvana: Fun Facts & Untold Stories Behind the Grunge Legends
Nirvana is one of the most iconic bands in rock history, credited with bringing grunge music into the mainstream and giving a voice to a generation. While many know the band’s major milestones—like the release of Nevermind and the global impact of “Smells Like Teen Spirit”—there are plenty of lesser-known stories and fun facts that offer a deeper glimpse into the band’s history. Let’s dive into some intriguing tidbits about Nirvana that you might not have heard before.
1. Kurt Cobain Was Almost in a Creedence Clearwater Revival Cover Band
Before Nirvana became the grunge powerhouse we know today, Kurt Cobain was just a young musician trying to find his place in the music world. At one point, he considered joining a Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) cover band. Cobain was a huge fan of CCR, and their influence can be seen in some of his simpler, more melodic songwriting. However, he ultimately decided to pursue his own original music, which led to the formation of Nirvana.
2. Nirvana’s First Record Deal Was Worth Just $600
It’s hard to believe now, but Nirvana’s first record deal was incredibly modest. The band signed with Sub Pop Records in 1988, and their advance for their debut album, Bleach, was a mere $600. That money was reportedly provided by Jason Everman, who briefly joined the band as a guitarist and covered the cost of the recording. Despite its low-budget production, Bleach went on to become a cult classic and laid the groundwork for Nirvana’s future success.
3. The Iconic “Smells Like Teen Spirit” Riff Was Inspired by a Pixies Song
Kurt Cobain was open about his love for the Pixies, and he often cited them as a major influence on his music. The iconic riff for “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was inspired by the Pixies’ song “Debaser.” Cobain admired the band’s ability to combine catchy melodies with raw, powerful energy, and he aimed to do something similar with “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” The result was a song that became an anthem for the 1990s and defined an entire generation.
4. Nirvana Was Almost Named “Skid Row”
Before settling on the name “Nirvana,” the band went through several potential monikers, including “Skid Row,” “Pen Cap Chew,” and “Ted Ed Fred.” They ultimately chose “Nirvana” because Cobain wanted a name that was “kind of beautiful or nice and pretty instead of a mean, raunchy punk name.” Interestingly, the name “Skid Row” was later used by a successful hard rock band that formed in the late 1980s.
5. The “Nevermind” Baby Almost Grew Up to Be a Lawyer
The cover of Nirvana’s Nevermind album, featuring a baby swimming underwater toward a dollar bill on a fishhook, is one of the most recognizable images in music history. The baby in the photo, Spencer Elden, became an accidental part of rock history. Elden later expressed mixed feelings about his involvement in the cover and even considered pursuing a career in law. He has recreated the iconic image several times over the years, but with a twist—he’s now fully clothed.
6. Kurt Cobain’s Unlikely Friendship with William S. Burroughs
Kurt Cobain had a fascination with literature and was particularly drawn to the works of Beat Generation writer William S. Burroughs. The two eventually struck up an unlikely friendship. In 1992, Cobain collaborated with Burroughs on a spoken-word piece titled “The ‘Priest’ They Called Him,” in which Burroughs read from his short story while Cobain played guitar in the background. This collaboration is a testament to Cobain’s eclectic influences and his desire to push the boundaries of music and art.
7. The “In Utero” Album Was Almost Rejected by the Record Label
Nirvana’s third and final studio album, In Utero, was a departure from the polished sound of Nevermind. Cobain wanted the album to be raw, abrasive, and unfiltered—a return to the band’s punk roots. However, when the album was initially submitted to Geffen Records, the label was concerned that it was too uncommercial and might not sell well. After some minor remixing and adjustments, the album was released as planned, and it became another critical and commercial success for the band.
8. Dave Grohl’s Secret Solo Project Became Foo Fighters
After Cobain’s tragic death in 1994, Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl was left devastated and unsure of his future in music. However, Grohl soon began recording his own songs, playing all the instruments himself. This solo project eventually evolved into Foo Fighters, which has gone on to become one of the most successful rock bands in the world. Grohl’s transition from drummer to frontman is a testament to his incredible talent and resilience.
Nirvana’s Legacy Lives On
Nirvana’s influence on music and culture is undeniable. While their time in the spotlight was relatively short, the band’s impact has endured for decades. From their humble beginnings and unexpected successes to their enduring legacy, Nirvana’s story is filled with fascinating anecdotes and lessons for musicians and fans alike.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, Nirvana’s journey offers a unique glimpse into the world of rock and roll, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists. The stories behind the band remind us that even the biggest legends start small, and that true artistry often comes from the most unexpected places.
One of the most iconic and widely recognized quotes from Nirvana's music is from their song "Smells Like Teen Spirit," which became an anthem for the grunge movement and the voice of a generation. The quote is:
"I feel stupid and contagious."
This line captures the raw, rebellious spirit of the song and the angst of youth culture in the early 1990s. It reflects the disillusionment and frustration that many young people felt at the time, making it a powerful and enduring line in rock history.