November 28, 1991 Nrivana – Top Of The Pops

The world of pop music was in for a surprise when Nirvana was asked to perform on England’s Top of the Pops television program.  Nirvana wanted to play live, but Top Of The Pops didn’t let them.  Only Kurt’s vocals would be live. Nirvana then turned in one of their most memorable performances ever.

Kurt Cobain “played” his guitar with his fingers inches away from the frets (and occasionally clutched the microphone to make it obvious that he was not playing), drummer Dave Grohl danced around in his seat for most of the performance, and bassist Krist Novoselic waved his instrument around his head. Cobain also sang in a low, dramatic opera voice, later claiming he was trying to impersonate Morrissey.

This is the reason Top Of The Pops subsequently revoked their ‘must sing live’ rule.

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