Smells Like Teen Spirit is one of the most iconic songs of the 90s, and perhaps the most famous song of Nirvana’s entire career. Written by the band’s frontman, Kurt Cobain, the song was released as the lead single from their second studio album, Nevermind, in 1991. The song and its accompanying music video have been lauded for their influence on the grunge and alternative rock genres, and their impact on popular culture.
Musically, Smells Like Teen Spirit is characterized by its driving drum beat, catchy guitar riff, and Cobain’s raw and powerful vocals. Lyrically, the song has been subject to much interpretation, but it is widely thought to be a commentary on the apathy and disillusionment of the youth culture of the time. Cobain once said that the song was “about people who are oppressed and suppressed, but they’re oblivious to it.”
The music video for Smells Like Teen Spirit was directed by Samuel Bayer and features the band performing in a high school gymnasium filled with moshing teenagers. The video has been praised for its dark and gritty aesthetic, which perfectly captures the energy and attitude of the song. The video was an instant hit and helped propel the song and the album to massive success.
In addition to its critical and commercial success, Smells Like Teen Spirit has also been recognized for its cultural impact. The song has been cited as a defining moment in the grunge and alternative rock movements, and is often credited with popularizing the so-called “Seattle sound” of the early 90s. It has also been included on countless “greatest songs of all time” lists and is widely regarded as one of the most important songs of the 20th century.
In conclusion, Smells Like Teen Spirit is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners and inspire musicians to this day. Its raw energy, catchy riffs, and powerful lyrics have made it a beloved anthem for generations of music fans. The song and its accompanying video are true testaments to the creative genius of Kurt Cobain and the lasting impact of Nirvana on the music world.
Fun Fact
A fun fact about the music video for “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is that the janitor who appears in the beginning of the video, played by actor Dale Crover, was actually a member of the band The Melvins, who were friends and early supporters of Nirvana. Additionally, the cheerleaders in the video were local girls recruited from a nearby high school, and were reportedly not very enthusiastic about the shoot, as they found the music too loud and abrasive. Despite their reluctance, the video went on to become one of the most iconic and influential music videos of all time, helping to launch Nirvana and the grunge movement into the mainstream.
About the Artists
Nirvana was an American rock band formed in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. The band consisted of lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain, bassist Krist Novoselic, and drummer Dave Grohl. Nirvana is one of the most influential bands of all time, and their music is credited with popularizing alternative rock and grunge. The band’s breakthrough album, Nevermind, was released in 1991 and spawned the hit singles “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, “Come as You Are”, and “Lithium”. Nirvana’s music is characterized by its heavy guitars, catchy melodies, and Cobain’s angst-ridden lyrics. The band’s sudden rise to fame and Cobain’s tragic death in 1994 cemented their place in rock history. Nirvana is still one of the most popular bands in the world, and their music continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
