Easy Nirvana Songs On Guitar
Nirvana is an ever-so-famous American rock band from the 1980s. It is widely regarded as one of the most influential bands of their time that played a significant part in the grunge sound movement in the 1990s. Their songs are still considered to be billboard modern rock tracks.
After the release of their second album in 1991, titled “Nevermind,” Nirvana began to receive widespread critical acclaim. The album’s first single, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” was a smash hit and an essential catalyst in the rise of alternative rock. Cobain’s contemplative and often tortured words, mixed with the band’s raw and energizing sound, struck a chord with a new generation of music listeners.
Nirvana parted up after Kurt Cobain’s untimely death by suicide in April 1994. Despite its brief existence, the band’s influence on the music industry and popular culture endures. Their music has moved and inspired people worldwide, impacting countless musicians and songwriters.
If you’re starting on the guitar, you should familiarize yourself with some popular songs. Below is a collection of songs by Nirvana that are simple enough to learn on guitar, so you can start jamming immediately.
Drain You
The Nirvana song “Drain You” was released in 1991 on the band’s second studio album, Nevermind. Kurt Cobain composed the song, and its signature guitar riff and high-octane performance made it a hit.
The tempo and the intensity of the words in “Drain You” constantly shift. This track features Cobain’s passionate singing and Nirvana’s trademark raw, distorted guitars. Like many of Cobain’s works, the lyrics are susceptible to interpretation. However, they are typically about exposing one’s emotions and being dependent on another.
Even though “Drain You” was never officially issued as a single, it has become a concert staple for Nirvana. Its earworm of a song and the punch of its instruments have made it a fan favorite for decades.
Milk It
Nirvana’s “Milk It” is a song from their 1993 third and last studio album, “In Utero.” Kurt Cobain’s signature guitar work and heartfelt vocals are prominent aspects of this iconic song.
The harsh and chaotic sound of “Milk It” marked a stylistic shift for Nirvana away from the studio gloss of their previous album, “Nevermind.” Cynicism, self-loathing, and social disillusionment are common themes in the song’s ambiguous and open-ended lyrics.
Heavy, distorted guitars, pounding percussion, and discordant melodies set “Milk It” apart musically. Cobain’s vocals increase the song’s intensity by alternating between gritty screams and melodious sections.
The raw intensity and experimental approach of “Milk It” makes it a fan favorite in Nirvana’s discography, despite the song’s lack of a single release. This song represents the band’s boldness in venturing into more experimental and harsh musical territory.
Smells Like Teen Spirit
Smells Like Teen Spirit is arguably the most well-known song by Nirvana and a defining anthem of the 1990s alternative rock movement. It propelled Nirvana to mainstream success and helped popularize the grunge genre. Its explosive combination of loud guitars, catchy melodies, and Cobain’s impassioned vocals resonated with a generation of disenchanted youth.
It was the lead single from their second studio album, “Nevermind,” released in 1991. The song was written by Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic, and Dave Grohl. The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as capturing the apathetic and disillusioned attitude of the era’s youth. Cobain described the song as a “teenage anthem” that reflected the spirit of teenage rebellion and the search for authenticity.
With its iconic opening guitar riff and memorable chorus, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of the most recognizable and influential rock songs ever. It propelled Nirvana and the grunge movement into the mainstream, and its impact on popular music continues to be felt today.
In Bloom
“In Bloom” is a track featured on Nirvana’s second studio album, “Nevermind,” released in 1991. Penned by Kurt Cobain, the song is renowned for its memorable melodies and ironic lyrics.
It seamlessly blends punk and pop elements, resulting in a compelling fusion of raw energy and accessible songwriting. As is often the case with Cobain’s compositions, the lyrics are subject to interpretation but are commonly interpreted as a critique of the music industry’s tendency to misconstrue or commodify underground or alternative culture.
Sonically, “In Bloom” boasts a propulsive rhythm, distorted guitars, and Cobain’s distinctive vocals. The track dynamically shifts between softer verses and explosive, anthemic choruses, creating a captivating and unforgettable auditory experience. At the same time, initially not released as a single, “In Bloom” garnered significant popularity and was eventually issued as a single in 1992, accompanied by a music video.
Lithium
has all it needs to become a legendary rock album. The song is impressive, thanks to the combination of Grohl’s drum beat and Cobain’s guitar riffs. The message was universally applicable, addressing the struggles of anybody dealing with their inner demons.
“Lithium” showcases Nirvana’s knack for crafting captivating melodies and infusing them with raw energy. The song transitions between subdued verses featuring Cobain’s vulnerable vocals and explosive, cathartic choruses characterized by the band’s trademark blend of distorted guitars and energetic drumming.
It quickly became popular and had a significant effect on Nirvana’s fans. Its memorable hooks, emotionally resonant lyrics, and the band’s distinct sound contributed to its enduring appeal among fans of the band and enthusiasts of alternative rock.
Polly
Polly is a song from their 1991 album Nevermind. In musical terms, “Polly” provides a counterpoint to the song’s gloomy lyrics with a more subdued and acoustic feel. Cobain’s soft vocals and subtle guitar work give the song a spooky, personal vibe.
Based on actual events, it recounts the sexual assault and abduction of a young woman named Polly. Cobain created the song after reading about the occurrence in the news, and it examines the shocking nature of the crime and its effect on the victim’s psyche.
Although it wasn’t a massive hit, it was widely considered one of Nirvana’s best works. It is a testament to Nirvana’s ability to tackle darker themes while capturing listeners’ attention with its unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics.
Heart Shaped Box
Heart-Shaped Box is a famous song by Nirvana from their final studio album, “In Utero,” released in 1993. It achieved remarkable success, solidifying its place as one of Nirvana’s most beloved and enduring tracks. The song’s fusion of introspection, raw energy, and melodic sensibility captures the essence of the band’s musical style and resonates with a broad audience.
It is often interpreted as a reflection on the complexities of love and relationships. Cobain’s lyrical craftsmanship employs vivid and, at times, surreal imagery, intertwining themes of vulnerability, longing, and emotional entanglement.
The song features juxtaposes heavy guitars with captivating melodic hooks. The song opens with a haunting guitar riff, setting a contemplative and emotionally charged atmosphere. Cobain’s vocals traverse from soft and reflective to intense and anguished, mirroring the emotional depths explored in the lyrics’ anti-rape song.
About a Girl
Nirvana’s “About a Girl” is a song from their 1989 self-titled debut album. Kurt Cobain wrote it and is noticeably different from the band’s later, more heavy, grunge-oriented style. It has a memorable guitar riff and Cobain’s distinctive voice.
It explores romantic connections and self-reflection. The lyrics of the final song, which express both respect and frustration, are primarily considered to be inspired by Cobain’s then-girlfriend. As time has passed, “About a Girl” has been recognized as a significant early piece in Nirvana’s career, despite being initially overshadowed by the band’s later hits.
It remains a fan favorite and is often a must-play song performed as part of Nirvana’s live shows. It’s blending of pop hooks with grunge aesthetics showcases the band’s ability to transcend genres and create compelling music that resonates with listeners.
Territorial Pissings
Nirvana’s “Territorial Pissings” is a track from their 1991 album Nevermind. Listeners identify with its abrasive, hostile tone and lyrics. The lyrics convey a sense of rebellion and defiance, rejecting conformity and societal norms.
Its high-energy and frenetic tempo characterizes it. The song features heavy guitar riffs, rapid drumming, and Cobain’s impassioned vocals. It exemplifies the raw and primal nature of Nirvana’s music, drawing on punk influences while maintaining its distinctive sound.
Fans appreciate its unapologetic and energetic approach. It serves as a reminder of Nirvana’s ability to channel their frustration and disillusionment into a cathartic and impactful musical expression.
Something In The Way
‘’Something in the Way” is a mesmerizing composition by Nirvana, found on their influential second studio album, “Nevermind,” released in 1991. Penned by Kurt Cobain, the song is a haunting ballad that delves into the depths of introspection.
It unveils a softer, more contemplative side of Nirvana’s sonic landscape. Cobain’s tender vocals intertwine with the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar, creating an atmosphere steeped in melancholy and profound introspection. Many listeners connect with the song’s portrayal of isolation, despair, and personal struggle, drawing inspiration from Cobain’s experiences with homelessness and the resulting feelings of alienation.
The tracks exemplify Cobain’s ability to convey raw emotion through his music and serve as a poignant reminder of the band’s ability to create impactful and introspective songs amidst their more aggressive and energetic repertoire.
Dive
Dive” is a song by Nirvana from their compilation album, “Incesticide,” released in 1992. Cobain’s unusual vocal approach to classic rock songs, which ranges from melodious verses to explosive choruses, complements the song’s powerful guitar riffs, driving percussion and instrumental brilliance.
Dive” exemplifies Nirvana’s signature grungy vibe. The song’s quick tempo, distorted guitars, and the band’s raw intensity indicate their punk influences. The song captures the essence of their early sound and showcases their talent for channeling their emotions into an explosive and cathartic musical experience.
All Apologies
All Apologies is a poignant easy song by Nirvana from their third and final studio album, “In Utero,” released in 1993. It combines gentle acoustic guitar strumming with layers of distorted electric guitars, creating a contrasting soundscape that reflects the emotional depth of the lyrics. Cobain’s vocals range from subdued and melancholic to moments of emotional release, lending a sense of raw authenticity to the song.
The song has resonated with listeners, becoming one of Nirvana’s most beloved and recognizable tracks. Its reflective nature and relatable themes of inner turmoil and the yearning for acceptance have connected with fans on a deep level.
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FAQs
What Is the Easiest Nirvana Song To Play On Guitar?
It smells of a teenager’s spirit. The entire song is a four-chord progression. It plays in fifths, a remarkably straightforward scale. It goes like this: FBbAb. The song “About a Girl” is another example of a very basic song.
What Is the Easiest Nirvana Solo?
Love Buzz is mainly a solo song with a few Power Chords. It’s simple, like typical Nirvana solos with bending, simple power chords, and legatos resembling vocal lines.
Are Nirvana Songs Hard To Play On Guitar?
Even their most straightforward music, like “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” is difficult for the artist to perform, but you can ace it with practice.
What Is the Best Nirvana Riff?
Bleach Nirvana’s best grunge-sounding album is full of substantial guitar tones.
Which Nirvana Songs Are Standard Tuning?
Many of Nirvana’s songs followed the conventional EADGBe chord progression. Nirvana also uses standard tuning with a low string, as well as drop-d and variations thereof. The DSDGB recording Heart-Shaped-Box is a musical work.
