Kurt Cobain, the legendary frontman of Nirvana, wielded a variety of guitars that contributed significantly to the band’s raw and influential sound. From budget-friendly models in his early days to iconic Fender instruments that became synonymous with the grunge era, Cobain’s guitar choices are as fascinating as his music. This exploration delves into the arsenal of guitars that shaped the sound of a generation, focusing on the key instruments that defined Kurt Cobain’s guitar legacy.
Early Days: Univox Hi-Fliers and Humble Beginnings
In his formative years, Kurt Cobain’s guitar journey began with the Univox Hi-Flier. This electric guitar, known for being an affordable alternative to the pricier Mosrite Gospel, became a staple in Cobain’s early repertoire. He owned several Hi-Fliers, including a sunburst version adorned with stickers, reflecting his DIY aesthetic, and a white model gifted by his then-girlfriend Tracy, marking a personal touch to his gear. These Univox guitars were instrumental in shaping his initial sound and stage presence.
The Bleach Era: Experimentation and Budget Finds
The era of Nirvana’s debut album, Bleach, saw Cobain experimenting with various guitars, often piecing together instruments or utilizing more affordable options. A notable mention is a blue Gibson SG, a testament to his resourceful approach, assembled from different parts. Another key guitar during this period was the Fender Mustang, which underwent several transformations, showcasing his penchant for customization and modification, even in his early career. These guitars from the Bleach era embody the raw and unrefined sound that characterized Nirvana’s initial impact.
Nevermind and Stratocaster Era: Rise to Fame and Fender Stratocasters
With the explosion of Nevermind, Kurt Cobain’s guitar preference shifted towards Fender Stratocasters. Among these, a black Stratocaster, famously stickered with “Vandalism”, became a standout. This guitar represented his rebellious spirit and growing prominence. For the extensive Nevermind tour, Cobain favored a 1965 Fender Jaguar, which he considered his favorite and later served as the blueprint for the Fender “Kurt Cobain” Jaguar model. Around the same time, he also acquired a 1969 Fender Competition Mustang, forever immortalized in the iconic “Smells Like Teen Spirit” music video. These Fender guitars marked a pivotal era, aligning with Nirvana’s mainstream breakthrough and solidifying Cobain’s iconic guitar image.
Kurt Cobain's 1969 Fender Mustang Competition, displayed at MoPop, Seattle. This guitar was famously used in Nirvana's 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' music video.
In Utero Tour: Mustangs Take Center Stage
The In Utero tour saw Fender Mustangs become Kurt Cobain’s primary stage guitars. He utilized four different Mustangs, a trio in blue and one in red. Each of these was meticulously customized to his specifications, featuring a powerful Seymour Duncan JB humbucker in the bridge position and a Gotoh Tune-O-Matic bridge for enhanced sustain and stability. These modified Mustangs were crucial in delivering the heavier, more abrasive sound of the In Utero era live performances.
Acoustic Interludes: Martin D-18E and Unplugged Soundscapes
Beyond electric guitars, Kurt Cobain’s acoustic work is equally significant. His most celebrated acoustic guitar is a 1950s Martin D-18E, famously played during Nirvana’s Unplugged on MTV concert. He also owned a Harmony Stella 12-string, used in the somber track “Something in the Way”, adding depth and texture to Nirvana’s quieter moments. Another notable acoustic was a 1961 Epiphone Texan, humorously adorned with a “Nixon Now” sticker, showcasing his blend of music and socio-political commentary.
Effects, Picks, and Strings: Crafting the Grunge Tone
To achieve his signature grunge guitar sound, Cobain relied on specific effects pedals. He famously used Boss DS-1 and Boss DS-2 distortion pedals, switching to the DS-2 around the Nevermind period. For chorus effects, he employed an EHX Small Clone Chorus on hits like “Come as You Are” and “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, later transitioning to an EHX PolyChorus/EchoFlanger. His choice of Dunlop Tortex .60mm guitar picks and Dean Markley 2502s and 2504s strings (9-48 and 10-52 sets respectively) further contributed to his distinctive guitar tone.
Kurt Cobain’s Guitar Collection: Key Models
| Brand | Model | Notable for: |
|---|---|---|
| Fender | 1965 Jaguar | Used during the Nevermind live tour, Kurt’s favorite guitar. |
| Fender | 1969 Competition Mustang | Played in the “Smells Like Teen Spirit” music video. |
| Fender | “Vandalism” Stratocaster | Used during the Live at the Paramount concert on October 31, 1991. |
| Fender | Mustang “Sky-Stang I” | Kurt’s main guitar during the In Utero tour. |
| Univox | Hi-Flier Phase 3 | Likely used during the recording of the Bleach album. |
| Martin | D-18E | Played during the MTV Unplugged concert, iconic acoustic performance. |
In conclusion, Kurt Cobain’s guitar choices were diverse and impactful, ranging from budget-friendly beginnings to iconic Fender models. Each guitar played a role in shaping his unique and influential sound, leaving an indelible mark on music history and inspiring countless guitarists. His gear, much like his music, remains a subject of fascination for fans and musicians alike, solidifying the enduring legacy of Kurt Cobain’s guitar.
