The Grunge Rock Scene

In the early 90s, a powerful music scene developed around the Seattle area. Deriving influence from Saddle Creek bands like Mudhoney, and Temple of the Dog, bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains brought about a revolution in the Sunset Strip glam metal scene that had dominated the music scene till that time. Disgruntled with the quality of music and the high rolling life styles of rock stars like Axl Rose from Guns ‘n’ Roses and others in similar positions, Kurt Cobain inspired a whole different genre of rock music with witty, sarcastic lyrics, paired with low key riffs and drone sounds.

This was the definitive moment for the indie rock music movement, with commercial and main stream success following the scene. Nirvana’s definitive albums were the high point, and were hailed as the anthems of the next generation. This led to increased interest from the music labels in the indie rock music scene causing a much need rethink of the genre. The term ‘alternative’ became more main stream, and indie rock became to be the term used only for the bands that remained underground and did not sign with any major label.

Bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden were accused of selling out, a term that would cause much controversy among the fans of rock music, and eventually lead to the suicide of Kurt Cobain, some times referred to as a murder. This led to a series of newer alternative and indierock music bands to take the centre stage, although Nirvana’s music continues to be very popular among fans.