One unifying thread among musicians across various ages and genres is their shared admiration for The Beatles. The four boys from Liverpool left an indelible mark on the music industry, creating a legacy that continues to inspire new bands today.
Although The Beatles didn’t invent rock ‘n’ roll, their role in popularizing the genre is monumental. They transformed what was once an underground phenomenon into a mainstream sensation, making it accessible to a wide audience, including teenagers, grandparents, and everyone in between. Their influence has shaped the sound and culture of rock music for generations.
For millions around the world, The Beatles served as a gateway to music, often becoming the first band people remember hearing. This holds true for listeners born in both 1964 and 2004, including many artists who later achieved greatness. The band’s timeless appeal transcends generations, solidifying their place in music history.
Kurt Cobain, the late frontman of Nirvana, exemplifies this influence. Born in 1967, he was too young to follow The Beatles’ career closely, and by the time he became aware of them, they had already disbanded.
Discovering that The Beatles had broken up was his first heartbreak, which he later described as a “devastating” blow. Once he recovered from this disappointment, Cobain immersed himself in their discography and named The Beatles “the biggest influence” on his career.
Unlike many bands he eventually grew tired of, Cobain continuously turned to The Beatles for inspiration throughout his life.
The Beatles laid the groundwork for modern songwriting, a framework that deeply resonated with Cobain. As an aspiring musician, their accessibility offered him a blueprint to follow, despite not coming from a musical background. Their pervasive impact highlights just how significant their influence was on his life and creative development.
Cobain’s admiration for The Beatles manifested in his songwriting, adding a melodic touch that set Nirvana apart from their peers.
In a 1989 interview with Radio Onde Furlane, he said, “I would say the biggest influence I’ve ever had would be The Beatles because I listened to The Beatles since I was five years old.”
He recounted the heartbreak of learning about their breakup and how it spurred him to explore different musical avenues.
Cobain also explained how his love for The Beatles led him to hard rock bands like Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin, blending their melodic style with heavier guitar sounds. This fusion played a key role in shaping Nirvana’s distinctive sound. He expressed a particular fondness for “Norwegian Wood” from Rubber Soul, praising its simple melodies and intricate guitar work.
Cobain’s deep appreciation for The Beatles was evident even at his funeral. While “Norwegian Wood” was his favorite, his family chose “In My Life” to be played during the ceremony, creating a poignant moment for attendees. His former bandmate Dave Grohl remembered how everyone came together to celebrate Cobain’s love for The Beatles one last time.
Without The Beatles, there would be no Nirvana. Despite their drastically different sounds, The Beatles inspired Cobain’s love for music and paved the way for his historical contributions. Their influence remains potent today, proving that their legacy is as relevant now as it has ever been.
