Kurt Donald Cobain was an American musician known for being the lead vocalist, guitarist, primary songwriter, and a founding member of the grunge band Nirvana. His angsty songwriting and anti-establishment persona significantly broadened the thematic scope of mainstream rock music. Cobain was regarded as a spokesperson for Generation X and is widely acknowledged as one of the most influential figures in alternative rock music.
1930: Great-Uncle's Appearance in King of Jazz
Kurt Cobain's great-uncle, Delbert, had a career as an Irish tenor and made an appearance in the 1930 film 'King of Jazz'.
1959: 1959 Martin D-18E Guitar
For Nirvana's Unplugged performance, Kurt Cobain played a 1959 Martin D-18E acoustic guitar modified for left-handed playing. This guitar became the most expensive ever sold when it fetched over $6 million at auction in 2020.
July 31, 1965: Marriage of Cobain's Parents
Kurt Cobain's parents, Wendy Elizabeth Fradenburg and Donald Leland Cobain, got married on July 31, 1965, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
1965: Cobain's Favorite Guitars
Kurt Cobain's preference for Japanese-made Fender guitars began ahead of recording Nevermind, including a 1965 Jaguar with DiMarzio pickups. Cobain favored these guitars for their slim necks and left-handed orientation, despite describing them as 'cheap and totally inefficient.'
February 20, 1967: Birth of Kurt Cobain
Kurt Donald Cobain was born on February 20, 1967. He eventually became the lead vocalist, guitarist, primary songwriter, and a founding member of the grunge band Nirvana. Cobain's influence on alternative rock is widely recognized.
1968: Influence of The Velvet Underground
Kurt Cobain was influenced by The Velvet Underground, whose 1968 song 'Here She Comes Now' Nirvana covered both live and in the studio.
1969: 1969 Competition Mustang Auction
In 1969, Kurt Cobain's 1969 Competition Mustang, which he played in the 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' music video, sold at a 2022 auction for $4.5 million to Jim Irsay, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts.
1969: Cobain's Gear and Sound for Nevermind
In 1969, Kurt Cobain's gear setup for recording Nevermind included several Stratocasters, a 1969 Competition Mustang, and a rackmount system with various amps and pedals. The Mustang, despite its flaws, was Cobain's favorite and featured in the 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' music video.
April 24, 1970: Birth of Cobain's Sister
Kurt Cobain's younger sister, Kimberly, was born on April 24, 1970.
1973: Influence of The Stooges' 'Raw Power'
Kurt Cobain admired protopunk acts like The Stooges, whose 1973 album 'Raw Power' he listed as his favorite of all time in his journals.
January 1979: Birth of Cobain's Half-Brother
On January 1979, Kurt Cobain's stepmother, Jenny Westeby, gave birth to a boy named Chad Cobain, further complicating Cobain's family dynamics.
June 28, 1979: Custody Granted to Cobain's Father
On June 28, 1979, Kurt Cobain's mother granted full custody of Kurt to his father, marking a significant change in his upbringing.
1980: First drug experience
In 1980, at the age of 13, Kurt Cobain had his first drug experience with cannabis. This marked the beginning of his long-term battle with substance abuse.
February 20, 1981: Kurt Cobain Receives His First Guitar
On February 20, 1981, his 14th birthday, Kurt Cobain's uncle offered him the choice between a bike and a used guitar. Cobain chose the guitar and soon began learning songs like Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven' and Queen's 'Another One Bites the Dust'. This marked the beginning of his journey into music, as he started creating his own songs. This day, February 20, 1981, was a turning point that paved the way for Cobain's future career in music.
1983: First Concert Experience
In 1983, Kurt Cobain attended his first concert, which was Sammy Hagar and Quarterflash at the Seattle Center Coliseum. This experience had a notable impact on him.
1985: Formation of Fecal Matter
In early 1985, Kurt Cobain formed the band Fecal Matter after dropping out of Aberdeen High School. The band, initially featuring Cobain, Dale Crover, and Greg Hokanson, rehearsed original material and covers for several months. This period marked the beginning of Cobain's deeper involvement in creating and performing music, laying the foundation for his future success with Nirvana.
1986: First heroin use
In 1986, Cobain was introduced to heroin by a dealer in Tacoma, Washington. This moment was pivotal as it led to a sporadic use that eventually developed into a serious addiction by the end of 1990.
1986: Living with Mother and Moving to Olympia
In 1986, Kurt Cobain moved into an apartment and paid his rent by working at the Polynesian Resort. During this period, he frequently traveled to Olympia, Washington, to attend rock concerts. He also started a relationship with Tracy Marander, who supported them financially. This period was marked by financial struggles and Cobain's increasing focus on his music and art. The year 1986 was significant for Cobain as it laid the groundwork for his future career and personal life.
1987: Formation of Nirvana
In 1987, Kurt Cobain formed Nirvana with Krist Novoselic and Aaron Burckhard. The band became a significant part of the Seattle music scene, eventually gaining widespread acclaim.
1987: Inspired to write 'Polly'
In 1987, Kurt Cobain was inspired to write the song 'Polly' after reading a newspaper story about a 14-year-old girl who was kidnapped, raped, and tortured with a blowtorch but managed to escape by gaining her captor's trust. The song later received praise from Bob Dylan, who called it the best of Nirvana's songs.
1987: Cobain Aware of Love through Film
Kurt Cobain was aware of Courtney Love through her role in the 1987 film Straight to Hell. This awareness preceded their formal introduction in 1991.
1988: Influence of Pixies' 'Surfer Rosa'
The Pixies' 1988 debut album 'Surfer Rosa' played a crucial role in shaping Kurt Cobain's songwriting style, leading him to move away from Black Flag influences and towards a more dynamic sound.
January 21, 1989: First Meeting with Courtney Love
On January 21, 1989, Kurt Cobain reportedly met Courtney Love at a Dharma Bums gig in Portland where Nirvana was a supporting act. This event marks one of the many accounts of their initial encounter.
August 20, 1989: Recording Sessions with The Jury
On August 20, 1989, Kurt Cobain, along with members of Nirvana and Screaming Trees, formed the side project The Jury. They recorded four songs by Lead Belly, including 'Where Did You Sleep Last Night?' This recording session in August 1989 highlighted Cobain's admiration for Lead Belly and his desire to explore different musical collaborations.
August 28, 1989: Recording Sessions with The Jury Continue
On August 28, 1989, The Jury continued their recording sessions, further exploring Lead Belly's music. This collaboration allowed Kurt Cobain to delve deeper into his musical influences and experiment with different sounds, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
1989: Release of Debut Album 'Bleach'
Nirvana released their debut album 'Bleach' in 1989 on Sub Pop. This marked the start of their journey towards commercial success.
1989: Release of Nirvana's Album Bleach
In 1989, Nirvana released their album 'Bleach' on Sub Pop Records with Chad Channing on drums. Although Kurt Cobain became dissatisfied with Channing's style, the release of 'Bleach' marked a significant milestone in Nirvana's career. This period also saw the band's struggles with financial difficulties and changing drummers, setting the stage for their future success.
1989: Nirvana's First American Tour and Gear Challenges
In 1989, Nirvana embarked on their first American tour. During this time, Kurt Cobain faced gear challenges, including borrowing and modifying equipment due to repairs. He also began his habit of destroying guitars onstage, leading their label Sub Pop to frequently search for replacements in local pawn shops.
1989: Release of 'About a Girl' on 'Bleach'
In 1989, Nirvana released their debut album 'Bleach,' which included the song 'About a Girl.' Kurt Cobain wrote this song after spending three hours listening to The Beatles' album 'Meet the Beatles!'
January 12, 1990: Alternate First Meeting Date with Courtney Love
On January 12, 1990, Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love are said to have met at a Nirvana show at the Satyricon nightclub in Portland. This is another version of the story about their first meeting.
1990: Addiction to heroin
By the end of 1990, Kurt Cobain's sporadic heroin use had developed into a full-blown addiction. He claimed that using heroin helped alleviate his stomach pain, although friends like Buzz Osborne disputed this.
1990: Collaborated with Tobi Vail on Bathtub is Real
In 1990, Kurt Cobain and his girlfriend Tobi Vail formed a musical project called Bathtub is Real. They both sang and played guitar and drums, recording their songs on a four-track tape machine belonging to Vail's father. This collaboration was a creative and inspiring venture for Cobain, marking his first experience playing music with a girl.
1990: Release of 'Where Did You Sleep Last Night?'
In 1990, Mark Lanegan's album The Winding Sheet featured the song 'Where Did You Sleep Last Night?', which was later associated with Kurt Cobain.
1990: Nirvana signed to DGC under Sonic Youth's Kim Gordon's recommendation
In 1990, under the recommendation of Sonic Youth's Kim Gordon, Nirvana signed with DGC Records. This marked an important milestone in the band's career.
May 1991: Cobain and Love Formally Introduced
In May 1991, Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love were formally introduced at an L7 and Butthole Surfers concert in Los Angeles. Following this, Love began pursuing Cobain after learning of their mutual interests from Dave Grohl.
May 17, 1991: Everett True Introduces Cobain and Love
On May 17, 1991, Everett True claims to have introduced Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love. This version of events differs from others, adding another layer to the story of their first meeting.
1991: Debut of Nirvana's Album Nevermind
In 1991, Nirvana released their major-label debut album 'Nevermind', featuring the iconic single 'Smells Like Teen Spirit'. The album's success catapulted Nirvana into mainstream popularity and defined the grunge genre. This year, 1991, marked a pivotal moment in Kurt Cobain's career and in the alternative rock music scene.
1991: European Tour with Sonic Youth
In the summer of 1991, Nirvana toured Europe with Sonic Youth. This tour was documented in the 1992 documentary '1991: The Year Punk Broke.'
1991: Commercial Success with 'Nevermind'
In 1991, Nirvana achieved commercial success with the release of their second album 'Nevermind'. The single 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' became critically acclaimed, establishing the band in mainstream rock.
February 24, 1992: Cobain and Love's Wedding
On February 24, 1992, Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love were married on Waikiki Beach in Hawaii. Love wore a satin and lace dress once owned by Frances Farmer, while Cobain donned green pajamas due to being 'too lazy to put on a tux.' The intimate ceremony was attended by eight people, including Dave Grohl.
August 18, 1992: Birth of Frances Bean Cobain
On August 18, 1992, Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love welcomed their daughter, Frances Bean Cobain. A sonogram of Frances was included in the artwork for Nirvana's single 'Lithium.' Controversy surrounded her birth due to Love's admission of a drug binge during early pregnancy, leading to a visit from the Los Angeles County Department of Children's Services.
October 1992: Cobain on Sexuality and Gender
In October 1992, Kurt Cobain discussed his sexuality and gender identity in interviews with Monk Magazine and The Advocate. He expressed a connection with the gay community, stating he could be bisexual, and described himself as 'feminine' in childhood. Cobain's lyrics and personal journals often included statements challenging homophobia.
1992: Near-death overdose after SNL performance
In 1992, the morning after Nirvana's performance on Saturday Night Live, Kurt Cobain experienced his first near-death overdose after injecting heroin. Courtney Love resuscitated him, preventing a potential tragedy.
1992: Interview with Melody Maker
In a 1992 interview with Melody Maker, Kurt Cobain discussed how hearing the Pixies' 1988 debut album 'Surfer Rosa' influenced his songwriting style. He shifted from a Black Flag-influenced style to one inspired by Iggy Pop and Aerosmith, which was evident in Nirvana's album 'Nevermind.'
1992: Comparison to R.E.M.'s 'Automatic for the People'
In 1993, Kurt Cobain predicted that Nirvana's next album would be ethereal and acoustic, similar to R.E.M.'s 1992 release 'Automatic for the People.' This comparison showcased Cobain's vision for the band's future musical direction.
1992: Media Attention and Public Perception
In 1992, Kurt Cobain faced overwhelming media attention following the success of Nirvana's album 'Nevermind'. He struggled with the public's misinterpretation of his artistic message and resented being labeled as the spokesman for Generation X. This year, 1992, highlighted Cobain's challenges with fame and his efforts to stay true to his underground roots.
1992: Documentary '1991: The Year Punk Broke' released
In 1992, the documentary '1991: The Year Punk Broke' was released, featuring Nirvana's tour with Sonic Youth in Europe during the summer of 1991.
1992: Heroin use affecting Nevermind tour
In 1992, Kurt Cobain's heroin use began to impact Nirvana's Nevermind tour. During a photoshoot with Michael Lavine, he fell asleep multiple times due to his drug use. Cobain's attitude towards his addiction was one of defiance, showing little concern for its effects on his career and health.
1992: Cobain's Guitar Preferences
In 1992, Kurt Cobain's guitar tone was considered one of the most iconic in electric guitar history. Despite his fame, Cobain preferred using budget models and pawn shop finds over expensive or vintage items. He stated, 'Junk is always best,' a necessity due to the difficulty in finding high-quality left-handed guitars.
1992: Cobain's advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights
In 1992, Kurt Cobain traveled to Oregon to perform at a benefit opposing the 1992 Oregon Ballot Measure 9, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. He supported local bands with LGBTQ+ members and was a frequent target of homophobic bullying in school due to his friendships. This advocacy highlighted his stance against homophobia, racism, and misogyny.
1992: Collaborated with William S. Burroughs
In 1992, Kurt Cobain reached out to William S. Burroughs for a possible collaboration. Burroughs responded with a recording of 'The Junky's Christmas,' to which Cobain added guitar backing. They later met in Lawrence, Kansas, and produced 'The 'Priest' They Called Him,' a spoken word version of Burroughs' story.
1992: Support for Social and Political Causes
In 1992, Kurt Cobain actively supported several social and political causes. He was a vocal opponent of sexism, racism, sexual assault, and homophobia. Nirvana played at a gay rights benefit concert against Oregon's 1992 Ballot Measure 9, and Cobain supported the pro-choice movement, participating in L7's Rock for Choice campaign. This involvement in 1992 showcased Cobain's commitment to social justice and his willingness to use his platform for advocacy.
July 23, 1993: Heroin overdose before performance
On July 23, 1993, Kurt Cobain suffered a heroin overdose before performing at the New Music Seminar in New York City. His wife, Courtney Love, resuscitated him with naloxone. Despite the incident, Cobain went on to perform, giving no indication to the public of what had happened.
October 1993: Cobain Met William S. Burroughs
In October 1993, Kurt Cobain met beat poet William S. Burroughs at his home in Lawrence, Kansas. Cobain, who regarded Burroughs as a hero, visited him during Nirvana's European tour. Burroughs later commented on Cobain's death, expressing no surprise and stating that Cobain was 'already dead' in his view.
1993: Rolling Stone Interview about 'Smells Like Teen Spirit'
In a 1993 interview with Rolling Stone, Kurt Cobain admitted that 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' was his attempt to emulate the Pixies. He acknowledged the significant influence the band had on him, particularly their use of dynamics, alternating between soft and loud sounds.
1993: Cobain Discusses Impact of Divorce
In a 1993 interview, Kurt Cobain discussed the profound impact his parents' divorce had on him, describing feelings of shame and a desire for a typical family.
1993: Expressed admiration for Jimi Hendrix
In a 1993 interview, Kurt Cobain expressed his admiration for Jimi Hendrix, calling him a great musician and composer. Cobain noted that he had great respect for Hendrix and acknowledged the growing media attention on the Seattle music scene.
1993: Nirvana's MTV Unplugged Appearance
In 1993, Nirvana performed on MTV Unplugged. During the performance, they were joined by the Meat Puppets to play three songs from the band's album 'Meat Puppets II.' This appearance showcased Cobain's support for lesser-known indie bands.
1993: Cobain's admiration for Lead Belly
In 1993, Kurt Cobain revealed in an interview that his favorite performer was Lead Belly. He discovered Lead Belly through William S. Burroughs' recommendation and fell in love with his music, considering it superior to any rock 'n' roll he had ever heard.
1993: Interview with Jon Savage
In 1993, Kurt Cobain gave an interview to Jon Savage where he discussed his early influences, including The Beatles. Cobain shared his fond memories of listening to Beatles records as a child and expressed particular admiration for John Lennon, whom he considered his idol.
1993: Cobain praised R.E.M.
In 1993, Kurt Cobain expressed his admiration for R.E.M., stating that if he could write just a couple of songs as good as theirs, he would be satisfied. He praised the band's ability to handle success and continue producing great music.
1993: Interview with The Advocate
In 1993, Cobain was interviewed by The Advocate, marking a rare media appearance to promote the album 'Incesticide.' The interview was significant as Cobain used the opportunity to condemn homophobia, racism, and misogyny.
1993: Michael Azerrad's Biography
In 1993, Michael Azerrad's authorized biography of Nirvana cites a January 21, 1989, Dharma Bums gig in Portland as the first meeting between Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love.
March 1, 1994: Diagnosis and overdose in Rome
On March 1, 1994, following a tour stop in Munich, Germany, Kurt Cobain was diagnosed with bronchitis and severe laryngitis. He flew to Rome for medical treatment, and on March 3, he overdosed on a combination of champagne and Rohypnol. Cobain was unconscious for the rest of the day and hospitalized for five days, marking his first known suicide attempt according to Courtney Love.
March 1994: Cobain's Overdose and Intervention
In March 1994, Kurt Cobain overdosed on a combination of champagne and Rohypnol. Following the incident, he underwent an intervention and detox program.
March 18, 1994: Suicidal scare and police intervention
On March 18, 1994, Courtney Love called the Seattle police, claiming that Kurt Cobain was suicidal and had locked himself in a room with a gun. The police arrived and confiscated several guns and a bottle of pills. Cobain insisted he was not suicidal and had simply locked himself in the room to hide from Love.
March 25, 1994: Intervention for drug use
On March 25, 1994, Courtney Love organized an intervention to address Kurt Cobain's drug use. The intervention included musician friends, record company executives, and close friends. Although Cobain initially reacted with anger, he eventually agreed to undergo detox and entered a residential facility in Los Angeles on March 30, 1994.
March 30, 1994: Entering detox program
On March 30, 1994, Kurt Cobain entered a residential detox facility in Los Angeles following an intervention organized by Courtney Love. However, this stay was brief as Cobain left the facility the following night.
April 5, 1994: Kurt Cobain's death
On April 5, 1994, Kurt Cobain passed away at the age of 27. His body was discovered on April 8, 1994, at his Lake Washington Boulevard home by an electrician. A suicide note was found, expressing his loss of excitement for music and writing.
April 5, 1994: Death of Kurt Cobain
Around April 5, 1994, Kurt Cobain died from a self-inflicted shotgun wound to the head, marking the end of his life and career. He was found dead in his Seattle home on April 8, 1994.
April 8, 1994: Discovery of Cobain's Death
On April 8, 1994, Kurt Cobain was found dead in the greenhouse of his Seattle home. Police concluded that he had died around three days earlier from a self-inflicted shotgun wound to the head.
April 23, 1994: Recognition of Cobain's contribution to music
On April 23, 1994, after Kurt Cobain's death, Music & Media reported on his substantial contribution to contemporary music. Jorgen Larsen, president of MCA Music Entertainment International, remarked on Cobain's significant impact, noting that his success was far from that of a one-hit wonder.
July 1994: Release of Teen Spirit: The Tribute to Kurt Cobain
In July 1994, the documentary Teen Spirit: The Tribute to Kurt Cobain was released as a home video. This documentary served as a homage to the late Kurt Cobain, capturing various aspects of his life and influence.
1994: In Utero Tour
In late 1993 and early 1994, Nirvana embarked on the In Utero tour, inviting lesser-known indie bands like Butthole Surfers, Shonen Knife, Chokebore, and Half Japanese to join them. This tour highlighted Cobain's commitment to promoting indie music.
1994: Release of 'MTV Unplugged in New York'
In 1994, the album 'MTV Unplugged in New York' was released posthumously. The album included renditions of 'The Man Who Sold the World' by David Bowie and 'Where Did You Sleep Last Night,' an American folk song adapted by Lead Belly. This release highlighted Cobain's diverse musical influences.
1994: Michael Stipe on Cobain's future musical direction
In 1994, Michael Stipe, lead singer of R.E.M., revealed in a Newsweek interview that Kurt Cobain had planned to record an acoustic album with lots of stringed instruments. Stipe, who was chosen as the godfather of Cobain's daughter Frances Bean, expressed his frustration over Cobain's untimely death.
1994: Leaving detox and Lollapalooza rumors
In 1994, Kurt Cobain left a detox facility and flew to Seattle, where he encountered Duff McKagan of Guns N' Roses. Despite past animosities, McKagan noted Cobain seemed happy to see him. Amid rumors of Nirvana breaking up, the band withdrew from the 1994 Lollapalooza festival.
1996: Re-release of Teen Spirit: The Tribute to Kurt Cobain
In 1996, the documentary Teen Spirit: The Tribute to Kurt Cobain was re-released, allowing new audiences to experience the tribute to the late musician.
1996: Establishment of the Church of Kurt Cobain
In 1996, the Church of Kurt Cobain was established in Portland, Oregon, though it was later claimed by some media outlets to have been a media hoax. This event highlights Cobain's enduring influence and the cult-like following he amassed even after his death.
1998: Release of the Film The Vigil
In 1998, The Vigil, a comedy film about a group of young people traveling to Seattle to attend a memorial vigil for Kurt Cobain in 1994, was released.
1998: Publication of 'Who Killed Kurt Cobain?'
In 1998, journalists Ian Halperin and Max Wallace published 'Who Killed Kurt Cobain?', investigating possible conspiracies surrounding Cobain's death. The book argued for reopening the case based on discussions with private investigator Tom Grant, who had taped conversations during his investigation. This work contributed to ongoing debates about the circumstances of Cobain's death.
1998: Release of Documentary 'Kurt & Courtney'
In 1998, the documentary 'Kurt & Courtney' by filmmaker Nick Broomfield investigated claims that Kurt Cobain was murdered. The film included interviews with various individuals connected to Cobain and Courtney Love, but ultimately did not uncover sufficient evidence to support the conspiracy theory. The documentary remains a controversial piece in the narrative surrounding Cobain's death.
May 31, 1999: Final ceremony for Cobain
On May 31, 1999, a final ceremony for Kurt Cobain was arranged by his mother. Attended by Courtney Love and Tracy Marander, the ceremony involved a Buddhist monk and Cobain's daughter, Frances Bean, scattering his ashes into McLane Creek in Olympia.
2001: Charles R. Cross' Biography
In 2001, Charles R. Cross' biography of Kurt Cobain suggests that Cobain and Love met on January 12, 1990, at the Satyricon nightclub in Portland, adding another version to their meeting story.
2001: DVD Release of Teen Spirit: The Tribute to Kurt Cobain
In 2001, the documentary Teen Spirit: The Tribute to Kurt Cobain was released on DVD, further extending its reach and preserving the legacy of Kurt Cobain.
2001: Publication of 'Heavier Than Heaven'
In 2001, writer Charles R. Cross published 'Heavier Than Heaven', a biography of Kurt Cobain. The book included over 400 interviews and access to Cobain's personal writings, providing a detailed account of his life. Despite criticism regarding its accuracy and bias, the biography offered insights into Cobain's career and personal struggles.
2002: Publication of 'Journals'
In 2002, a sampling of Kurt Cobain's writings was published as 'Journals'. The book, which spans 280 pages, offers a chronological look at Cobain's thoughts from the late 1980s until his death. The collection includes musings on life, music, and personal reflections, providing a rare glimpse into Cobain's inner world.
2003: Release of Paperback Version of 'Journals'
In 2003, a paperback version of 'Journals' was released, featuring additional writings not included in the initial publication. This expanded edition continued to offer fans and readers insight into Kurt Cobain's personal and artistic life.
2003: Ranked 12th Greatest Guitarist by Rolling Stone
In 2003, David Fricke of Rolling Stone ranked Kurt Cobain as the 12th greatest guitarist of all time. This accolade highlights Cobain's significant impact on music and his recognition as an influential guitarist.
May 2004: Formation of Kurt Cobain Memorial Committee
In May 2004, the Kurt Cobain Memorial Committee, a non-profit organization, was created to honor Cobain. The Committee planned to create a Kurt Cobain Memorial Park and a youth center in Aberdeen, Washington, demonstrating the community's effort to preserve Cobain's legacy.
2004: Release of 'Love and Death: The Murder of Kurt Cobain'
In 2004, Ian Halperin and Max Wallace, in collaboration with Tom Grant, released 'Love and Death: The Murder of Kurt Cobain'. The book expanded on their previous investigation into Cobain's death, continuing to explore the possibility of a conspiracy. This publication kept the discussion about Cobain's death alive in public discourse.
2004: Release of Nirvana's B-sides Collection
In 2004, Nirvana's B-sides collection With the Lights Out was released, which included tracks like 'Grey Goose', 'Ain't It a Shame', and 'They Hung Him on a Cross'.
2005: Release of Gus Van Sant's Last Days
In 2005, Gus Van Sant released the movie Last Days, which was loosely based on the final days of Kurt Cobain's life. The main character, Blake, was portrayed by Michael Pitt and drew heavy inspiration from Cobain.
2005: Tribute Sign in Aberdeen
In 2005, a sign was put up in Aberdeen, Washington, that read 'Welcome to Aberdeen – Come As You Are' as a tribute to Kurt Cobain. The sign was paid for and created by the Kurt Cobain Memorial Committee, honoring Cobain's legacy and his connection to the city.
2006: Love retains Cobain's ashes
In 2006, Courtney Love revealed that she had retained Kurt Cobain's ashes, keeping them in a bank vault in Los Angeles, as no cemetery in Seattle would accept them.
2006: Everett True's Account
In 2006, Everett True disputes earlier accounts of Cobain and Love's first meeting, claiming in his book that he introduced the couple on May 17, 1991.
2006: Ranked in Various Music Lists
In 2006, Kurt Cobain was placed at number twenty by Hit Parader on their list of the '100 Greatest Metal Singers of All Time'. Additionally, he was ranked the 73rd greatest guitarist and 45th greatest singer of all time by Rolling Stone, and seventh in MTV's '22 Greatest Voices in Music'. These accolades reflect Cobain's lasting influence in the music industry.
2006: Recognition by Hit Parader
In 2006, Kurt Cobain was ranked 20th by Hit Parader on their list of the '100 Greatest Metal Singers of All Time'.
2006: Release of Documentary 'Kurt Cobain: About a Son'
In 2006, Michael Azerrad's taped conversations with Kurt Cobain were transformed into a documentary titled 'Kurt Cobain: About a Son'. The film, which does not feature any music by Nirvana, includes songs by artists who inspired Cobain, providing a unique perspective on his life and influences.
2006: Release of Documentaries on Kurt Cobain
In 2006, two documentaries about Kurt Cobain were released: All Apologies: Kurt Cobain 10 Years On, directed by Jon Brewer, and The Last 48 Hours of Kurt Cobain by the BBC.
January 2007: Courtney Love Shops Biography Heavier Than Heaven
In January 2007, Courtney Love began shopping the biography Heavier Than Heaven to various movie studios in Hollywood, aiming to turn the book into an A-list feature film about Kurt Cobain and Nirvana.
2008: Release of 'Cobain Unseen'
In 2008, Charles R. Cross released 'Cobain Unseen', a compilation of annotated photographs and creations by Kurt Cobain. The book provided a visual and textual exploration of Cobain's life and artistic journey, adding depth to the understanding of his legacy.
July 2009: Monument Controversy in Aberdeen
In July 2009, a controversy erupted over a monument to Kurt Cobain in Aberdeen, Washington, which included the quote '... Drugs are bad for you. They will fuck you up.' The city decided to sandblast the monument to replace the expletive with 'f---', but fans immediately drew the letters back in. This incident reflects the ongoing tension between Cobain's raw, unfiltered legacy and public sensibilities.
September 2009: Debut of Play Kurt and Sid
In September 2009, the play Kurt and Sid, written by Roy Smiles, debuted at the Trafalgar Studios in London's West End. The play featured the ghost of Sid Vicious visiting Kurt Cobain in his greenhouse on the day of his suicide.
2009: Kurt Cobain in Guitar Hero 5
In 2009, Kurt Cobain was included as a playable character in the video game Guitar Hero 5. This inclusion led to controversy, with former bandmates Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl condemning its use and Courtney Love threatening to sue.
2009: Everett True's book Nirvana: The Biography published
In 2009, Everett True's book Nirvana: The Biography was published, in which Tobi Vail discussed her 1990 musical collaboration with Kurt Cobain. She expressed that Cobain was inspired by her creativity and enjoyed their time making music together.
December 2013: Hoquiam Declares Annual Nirvana Day
In December 2013, the small city of Hoquiam, Washington, where Kurt Cobain once lived, announced that April 10 would become the annual Nirvana Day. This declaration underscores the lasting impact of Cobain and his band, Nirvana, on local culture.
January 2014: Aberdeen Declares Annual Kurt Cobain Day
In January 2014, Kurt Cobain's birthday, February 20, was declared annual 'Kurt Cobain Day' in Aberdeen, Washington. This celebration reflects the city's recognition of Cobain's influence and his contributions to music and culture.
March 2014: Development of film showing Cobain's death scene
In March 2014, Seattle police developed four rolls of film from the scene of Kurt Cobain's death that had been left in an evidence vault. The photographs provided clearer images of the scene, reaffirming that Cobain's death was a suicide. The photos were released publicly ahead of the 20th anniversary of his death.
April 10, 2014: Nirvana inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On April 10, 2014, Nirvana was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Courtney Love accepted the accolade, and Kurt Cobain was remembered for his influential role in rock music.
2014: Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2014, Kurt Cobain was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his Nirvana bandmates Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl.
January 2015: Premiere of Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck
In January 2015, the documentary Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Brett Morgen, the film was later released on various platforms and described as "this generation's The Wall."
2015: Release of Soaked in Bleach
In 2015, the American docudrama Soaked in Bleach was released. Directed by Benjamin Statler, the film explores the events leading up to Kurt Cobain's death, presenting the perspective of Tom Grant, the private detective hired by Courtney Love.
2019: Release of 'Serving the Servant: Remembering Kurt Cobain'
In 2019, on the 25th anniversary of Kurt Cobain's death, former Nirvana manager Danny Goldberg published 'Serving the Servant: Remembering Kurt Cobain'. The book offered personal anecdotes and reflections on Cobain's life, providing a unique perspective from someone who worked closely with him.
June 2020: Most Expensive Guitar Sold at Auction
In June 2020, the 1959 Martin D-18E acoustic-electric guitar used by Kurt Cobain for Nirvana's MTV Unplugged performance sold at auction for $6,010,000 to Peter Freedman, the chairman of Røde Microphones. This sale marked the guitar as the most expensive piece of band memorabilia ever sold.
2020: Most Expensive Guitar Sold
In 2020, Kurt Cobain's 1959 Martin D-18E acoustic guitar, played during Nirvana's Unplugged performance, sold for over $6 million at auction, making it the most expensive guitar ever sold.
July 2021: Cobain's Childhood Home Added to Heritage Register
In July 2021, the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation confirmed that Kurt Cobain's childhood home in Aberdeen would be included on their Heritage Register. The owner planned to make it into an exhibit for people to visit, preserving Cobain's early history for future generations.
May 2022: Sale of Lake Placid Blue Fender Mustang Guitar
In May 2022, Kurt Cobain's Lake Placid Blue Fender Mustang guitar sold at auction for $4.5 million to Jim Irsay, making it the second-most valuable guitar ever sold and the most valuable electric guitar. This event highlights the enduring value and significance of Cobain's musical instruments.
2022: 1969 Competition Mustang Auctioned
In 2022, Kurt Cobain's 1969 Competition Mustang was sold at auction to Jim Irsay for $4.5 million, far exceeding its original estimate of $600,000.