The word “reunion” certainly carries a lot of weight when it comes to Nirvana. The tragic loss of the band frontman Kurt Cobain in 1994 marked the end of an era that left fans with a sense of longing for what could have been. It has come to light that PJ Harvey was approached to perform ‘Milk It’ at the 2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and that would have been a special moment for fans. However, she didn’t perform, and had to turn down the offer.
However, Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smear have, on rare and special occasions, come together to honor the legacy of Nirvana, creating moments that have been nothing short of historic.
Nirvana at 2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
One of the most talked-about reunions took place on April 10, 2014, when Nirvana was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The band was recognized for their profound influence on music and culture. However, the real magic happened when the surviving members took the stage to perform some of Nirvana’s most iconic songs.
With Kurt Cobain no longer there to front the band, a lineup of powerful female vocalists stepped in to pay tribute. Joan Jett kicked off the set with a blistering rendition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth followed, bringing her edgy style to “Aneurysm.” St. Vincent (Annie Clark) then took the stage for “Lithium,” adding a modern twist to the classic track. Finally, Lorde closed the night with a haunting performance of “All Apologies,” a poignant reminder of Cobain’s legacy.
This performance was more than just a reunion and it was a celebration of Nirvana’s enduring influence, showcasing how their music continues to inspire new generations of artists.
2018 Cal Jam Reunion
In 2018, the surviving members of Nirvana reunited once more, this time at Cal Jam, a music festival founded by Dave Grohl’s band, Foo Fighters. On October 6, during Foo Fighters’ headlining set, Grohl, Novoselic, and Smear took the fans by surprise when they performed six Nirvana songs. The reunion was made even more special by the guest vocalists who joined them on stage.
Joan Jett returned to front the band for “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” “All Apologies,” and “Breed,” while Deer Tick’s John McCauley took on “Serve the Servants” and “Scentless Apprentice.”
Jett’s gritty vocals and McCauley’s raw energy brought a fresh yet faithful take on these Nirvana classics. They captured the spirit of the original performances while adding a new layer of intensity.
The Cal Jam reunion was an unexpected gift to fans, proving that Nirvana’s music remains as powerful and relevant as ever. The chemistry between Grohl, Novoselic, and Smear was undeniable, and the guest vocalists did justice to the songs that defined the Grunge era.
While these reunion performances are few and far between, they serve as a reminder of Nirvana’s lasting impact on music and culture. The band’s ability to connect with audiences, even decades after their peak and without Kurt Cobain, speaks to the timeless nature of their music. However, Cobain’s absence is always felt. The reunions allow fans to experience a glimpse of what made Nirvana so special.
