The Guitars Kurt Cobain Played: From Strats to Jaguars

Kurt Cobain, the iconic frontman of Nirvana, was known not only for his unique sound but also for his distinctive instrumentation. His choice of guitars was a blend of classic blues and modern rock, reflecting his musical style.

Favorite Fender Models

Cobain utilized various Fender models throughout his career, with the Stratocaster being one of his favorites. He notably played a Japanese 62 reissue Stratocaster with a Seymour Duncan JB pickup in the bridge position. This guitar, which often had a Fernandez neck, was frequently seen on stage. However, Cobain was particularly partial to models like the Jaguar and Mustang, which had a shorter scale, making them ideal for his playing style.

Models and Preferences

Cobain's musical journey with guitars included several beloved classic models:

Stratocaster: Cobain played several Stratocasters, both in their original form and with some modifications, like the Japanese 62 reissue model. Jaguar: This shorter-scale model was one of Cobain's most preferred guitars, especially as he often smashed them on stage. Mustang: Like the Jaguar, the Mustang was another short-scale guitar that Cobain adored.

Cobain's preference for these guitars was reflective of his musical tastes, where simplicity and accessibility of the instrument often surpassed the need for complex or flashy designs. This is why he often chose guitars that were sitting in pawn shops, neglected and undervalued, and would surprise the music industry with his reinterpretation of them.

Influence on the Music Industry

While classic brands like Fender and Gibson dominated rock music in the early decades, they faced challenges in the 1980s. The rise of modern, high-shred guitars from brands like Jackson, Charvel, and Ibanez marked the era. However, Kurt Cobain played a significant part in reviving Fender's relevance among young guitarists in the early 1990s. The alternative rock explosion gave Fender a new lease on life, especially for those who appreciated the unique sounds of lesser-known models like the Jaguar and Mustang.

Fender recognized the importance of Cobain's endorsement and provided him with numerous import Strats specifically for smashing on stage. This practice made it increasingly difficult to replace guitars that were broken during performances, as many of these models were not in production and were hard to find replacements for.

Conclusion

Kurt Cobain's guitar choice was a reflection of his artistic vision, blending simplicity with power. His fondness for the Jaguar and Mustang guitars, along with his breakdowns on stage, became iconic moments in his career. These guitars, often overlooked and forgotten, became central to the legacy of Nirvana and marked a significant shift in the rock music landscape of the early 1990s.