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Eternity of grunge. A classic by Nirvana (NIRVANA)

Let me introduce some songs by Nirvana, the very definition of grunge rock.

As the band of Kurt Cobain—who, despite his musical success, struggled deeply and died young—they have become an icon of alternative rock worldwide.

Although he passed away in 1994, many artists still cover their songs to this day.

There are countless aspects to their appeal, but surely the greatest is Kurt Cobain’s voice.

Please take this article as an opportunity to once again experience the allure of Nirvana, the band that revolutionized the rock scene.

The Eternity of Grunge: Nirvana’s Greatest Songs (11–20)

DumbNirvana

Nirvana – Dumb (Live at Reading 1992)
DumbNirvana

A distinctive song that celebrates the simple, foolish pleasures of life.

It’s included on the album In Utero.

There’s a story that, because many fans had listened to a bootleg of this song, when it was performed at the Reading Festival in August 1992—before the album was released—the audience was already singing along.

NevermindNirvana

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)
NevermindNirvana

Nirvana is a band that represents American grunge rock.

Their second album, Nevermind, released in 1991, is known as a masterpiece that has gone down in music history.

Featuring numerous hits led by Smells Like Teen Spirit, it has sold over 30 million copies worldwide.

Kurt Cobain’s soul-stirring vocals and their innovative sound that fused punk and pop moved countless listeners.

The album was nominated for a Grammy and received high praise from critics.

It’s highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the depth of music or learn about the 1990s music scene.

Molly’s LipsNirvana

Molly’s Lips (BBC John Peel Session 1990)
Molly's LipsNirvana

Track 6 on the compilation album Incesticide.

A cover of a song by the Scottish band The Vaselines.

The Vaselines seemed to be a band Kurt admired, and he covered other songs of theirs as well.

While retaining the poppiness of the original, the harder, more aggressive sound makes it a remarkable cover.

Been a SonNirvana

Nirvana – Been A Son (Live at Reading 1992)
Been a SonNirvana

A semi-autobiographical song written by Kurt Cobain about a father who wants a son instead of a daughter.

The track appears on the 1992 compilation album Incesticide and the live album The Muddy Banks of the Wishkah.

Pennyroyal TeaNirvana

Nirvana – Pennyroyal Tea [Unplugged In New York, Lyrics, 1993 HD]
Pennyroyal TeaNirvana

The title “Pennyroyal Tea” is known for inducing abortion when consumed in large quantities, and because of its toxicity, drinking a lot of it is considered extremely dangerous.

The song is about a harsh decision, the difficult choices surrounding it, and the guilt that follows.

Territorial PissingsNirvana

Nirvana – Territorial Pissings (SNL 1992)
Territorial PissingsNirvana

Among the tracks on the historic masterpiece Nevermind, this one is especially fierce and raw.

It was frequently performed live as a staple of their set.

While it’s a simple song built on four chords that just barrels ahead, it’s very Nirvana-like in the way it sets itself apart from a straightforward punk number—working in sections with only bass and drums and unfolding with unexpected turns.

The fact that such a melody sits so well on top is testament to Kurt Cobain’s melodic sensibility.

If you’ve got basic technique, it’s easy to copy, and even when you’re not in the mood, covering this song is guaranteed to lift your spirits.

Grunge Forever: Nirvana’s Greatest Songs (21–30)

BlewNirvana

Nirvana – Blew (Live at Reading 1992)
BlewNirvana

It’s the opening track from their debut studio album Bleach, released in 1989 on the Sub Pop label.

The song explores entanglement and a desire to break free from society’s constraints.

The album received positive reviews from music critics.