Kurt Cobain, the iconic frontman of Nirvana, was not only a trailblazing musician but also a student of rock history. Despite his deep appreciation for the genre, there were moments when he may have confused certain facts, notably surrounding the tragic death of Jimi Hendrix. Cobain, at times, believed that Hendrix had taken his own life.
The reality, is that the official cause of Jimi Hendrix’s death, as determined by the doctor on the scene, was asphyxiation. Jimi Hendrix passed away in London on September 18, 1970, and the circumstances surrounding his death indicated that he had choked on his own vomit. This cause of death was supported by the post-mortem examination and findings at the time.
Kurt Cobain Record Collection Of Jimi Hendrix Albums
Cobain’s taste was as eclectic as his artistic expression. Among the gems in his vinyl stash were original albums from Jimi Hendrix, including the groundbreaking debut “Are You Experienced?” and the revolutionary live album “Band of Gypsys.” Notably, Cobain held a special place for the live recordings, with “Monterey International Pop Festival” and a bootleg titled “The Birth of Success from Jimi Hendrix Days with Curtis Knight.“ These additions to his collection reflected Cobain’s admiration for Hendrix’s stage presence and innovation.
What did Kurt Cobain Think of Jimi Hendrix?
Kurt Cobain once stated in an interview with Antonio Carlos Miguel for the Globe newspaper, “I’m a fan of Jimi Hendrix and punk rock.” When asked about the comparison between Nirvana and The Jimi Hendrix Experience in mixing noise and weight with great songs and beautiful melodies, Cobain responded, “There’s really a lot of tunes in Hendrix. He was loud, a great musician, and a great songwriter. I have great respect for him, and every year I go to his grave and have a few beers.”
These insights into Kurt Cobain’s connection with Jimi Hendrix reveal not only the depth of his admiration but also the personal ritual he maintained to honor the legendary guitarist. As we delve into Cobain’s musical archives, we uncover the layers of influence that shaped the sound of Nirvana. The intersection of grunge and the timeless works of Hendrix paints a vivid picture of how musical legacies intertwine across generations.
Cobain’s prophetic statement about becoming a “superstar musician, kill myself and go out in a flame of glory, just like Jimi Hendrix,” though tinged with inaccuracies regarding Hendrix’s death, foreshadowed the enigmatic parallels between the two artists. Both left-handed guitarists from northern Washington State, both catalysts for change in the music industry, and both departing this world at the age of 27. For more in-depth insights into the similarities between Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain, check out this article.
The aftermath of Cobain’s death, as reported by Rolling Stone, adds a surreal layer to his story. The news of his demise, initially broadcasted on Seattle’s KXRX-FM, marked another entry into the “stupid club” – the list of rock legends who died at 27, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Brian Jones, and Jim Morrison. Cobain’s confirmed suicide distinguishes him in this grim roster, underscored by his poignant farewell in the suicide note: “It’s better to burn out than to fade away.”
FAQ’S
When and where was Jimi Hendrix born?
Jimi Hendrix was born on November 27, 1942, in Seattle, Washington. Growing up in a musical household, he honed his craft in the vibrant Seattle music scene before skyrocketing to fame.
When and where was Kurt Cobain born?
Born on February 20, 1967, in Aberdeen, Washington, Kurt Cobain emerged as the voice of a generation in the alternative music scene. His early life in the Pacific Northwest profoundly influenced his artistic journey.
What is Jimi Hendrix’s most famous song?
“Purple Haze,” released in 1967, stands as one of Jimi Hendrix’s most iconic songs. Its distorted guitar riffs and psychedelic atmosphere became a hallmark of the 1960s counterculture and rock revolution.
What is Nirvana’s most famous song?
Nirvana’s anthem of a generation, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” released in 1991, catapulted the band to global stardom. Its raw energy and Cobain’s distinctive vocals made it a defining moment in the grunge movement.
What was the cause of Jimi Hendrix’s death?
Tragically, on September 18, 1970, Jimi Hendrix passed away in London. The official cause of death was ruled asphyxiation due to choking on his own vomit, marking the end of a revolutionary musical era.
How did Kurt Cobain die?
On April 5, 1994, Kurt Cobain’s life ended in Seattle. The official cause was suicide by a gunshot wound to the head. Cobain’s untimely departure left an indelible mark on the music world and a void in the grunge scene.