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Quizzes > Music

Kurt Cobain Quiz: How Much Do You Really Know?

Quick Kurt Cobain trivia quiz. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Crystal DemonUpdated Aug 27, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art portrait of Kurt Cobain above free Nirvana IQ quiz text on teal background

This Kurt Cobain IQ quiz helps you check your knowledge of his life, lyrics, and Nirvana history. You will get instant feedback with short notes, so you can learn a new fact as you go. Want more? Tackle the Nirvana quiz next, or see which Nirvana member are you to compare your vibe with the band.

Where was Kurt Cobain born?
Aberdeen, Washington
Los Angeles, California
Seattle, Washington
Portland, Oregon
Kurt Cobain was born on February 20, 1967, in Aberdeen, Washington, a small coastal city that influenced his early life and musical sensibility. He spent much of his childhood in Aberdeen before moving to Seattle, where grunge would soon emerge. The Pacific Northwest's culture and environment played a key role in shaping his songwriting.
Who was the bassist for Nirvana?
Dave Grohl
Krist Novoselic
Pat Smear
Nirvana didn't have a bassist
Krist Novoselic co-founded Nirvana with Kurt Cobain and played bass throughout the band's existence. His melodic bass lines provided a crucial counterpoint to Cobain's guitar riffs. Novoselic's stage presence and partnership with Cobain defined Nirvana's classic sound.
What year was 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' released as a single?
1991
1989
1990
1992
'Smells Like Teen Spirit' was released on September 10, 1991, as the lead single from the album 'Nevermind'. The song became an anthem for Generation X and propelled Nirvana to international fame. It remains one of the most iconic tracks of the 1990s.
What is the name of Nirvana's debut studio album?
Bleach
In Utero
Nevermind
Incesticide
Nirvana's debut album 'Bleach' was released in June 1989 on the Sub Pop label. Produced by Jack Endino, it features a rawer, heavier sound than their later work. 'Bleach' laid the groundwork for the band's grunge identity.
What was Kurt Cobain's primary instrument?
Electric guitar
Bass guitar
Acoustic guitar
Drums
Kurt Cobain was primarily known as an electric guitarist and vocalist, often using Fender guitars like the Mustang and Jag-Stang. His distinctive chord progressions and aggressive playing style helped define the grunge sound. While he occasionally played acoustic guitar, the electric guitar was his main instrument.
Who did Kurt Cobain marry in 1992?
Courtney Love
Aimee Mann
Tori Amos
Madonna
Kurt Cobain married singer and musician Courtney Love on February 24, 1992. The couple had a daughter, Frances Bean Cobain, in August that year. Their marriage was highly publicized and sometimes turbulent, but they remained together until Kurt's death.
Who was the drummer for Nirvana's classic lineup?
Chad Channing
Dave Grohl
Aaron Burckhard
Dale Crover
Dave Grohl joined Nirvana in 1990 and completed the band's classic trio lineup. His powerful drumming on albums like 'Nevermind' and 'In Utero' contributed significantly to Nirvana's dynamic sound. After Cobain's death, Grohl went on to form the Foo Fighters.
In what year did Kurt Cobain die?
1995
1992
1994
1993
Kurt Cobain died on April 5, 1994, in Seattle, Washington. His death was ruled a suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Cobain's passing marked the end of Nirvana and had a profound impact on music fans worldwide.
Which live album features Nirvana performing acoustic versions of their songs?
MTV Unplugged in New York
From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah
Unplugged in Seattle
Live at Reading
MTV Unplugged in New York, recorded in November 1993 and released in 1994, showcases Nirvana playing acoustic versions of their songs and covers. It was one of the last recorded performances of the band. The album is widely acclaimed for its intimate setting.
Which of these songs was NOT originally written by Nirvana?
Lithium
Come as You Are
All Apologies
Black Dog
"Black Dog" is a song by Led Zeppelin from their 1971 album 'Led Zeppelin IV'. Nirvana never wrote or released a track by this name, although they covered various songs live. The other options are all original Nirvana compositions.
Who produced Nirvana's album 'Nevermind'?
Butch Vig
Rick Rubin
Steve Albini
George Martin
Butch Vig produced 'Nevermind', working closely with the band to achieve a polished yet powerful sound. Though Steve Albini had recorded Nirvana's second album, 'In Utero', Vig's take on 'Nevermind' is credited with helping the album reach mainstream success.
Which Nirvana album features 'Heart-Shaped Box' and 'All Apologies'?
Incesticide
Nevermind
Bleach
In Utero
'In Utero', released in 1993, is Nirvana's third and final studio album. It includes hits like 'Heart-Shaped Box' and 'All Apologies', showcasing a rawer production style under Steve Albini. The album was seen as a deliberate contrast to the mainstream polish of 'Nevermind'.
What year was 'In Utero' released?
1994
1993
1992
1991
'In Utero' was released on September 21, 1993. It followed the massive success of 'Nevermind' and was produced by Steve Albini. The album peaked at number one on the Billboard 200.
MTV Unplugged in New York was recorded in which year?
1994
1992
1993
1991
Nirvana's MTV Unplugged performance was recorded on November 18, 1993, at Sony Studios in New York City. The set featured acoustic renditions of hits and covers, becoming one of the band's most celebrated recordings. The album was released posthumously in 1994.
Before Nirvana, Kurt Cobain briefly played in which band?
Screaming Trees
The Melvins
Foo Fighters
Fecal Matter
Kurt Cobain formed Fecal Matter in 1985 as a short-lived project where he tried out songs later adapted for Nirvana. Though the band never released a formal album, its demo tape laid the groundwork for Nirvana's early sound. Members included local musicians from Aberdeen.
What is the name of Kurt Cobain's daughter?
Kate Hudson
Lisa Marie Presley
Olivia Harrison
Frances Bean Cobain
Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love's only child is Frances Bean Cobain, born on August 18, 1992. Frances Bean has pursued a career in visual arts and modeling. She inherited a significant portion of her father's estate.
Which Nirvana song opens with 'Load up on guns, bring your friends'?
In Bloom
Lithium
About a Girl
Smells Like Teen Spirit
The opening lyrics 'Load up on guns, bring your friends' begin 'Smells Like Teen Spirit', Nirvana's breakthrough single from 'Nevermind'. The line captures the song's youthful angst and has become emblematic of 1990s alternative rock.
Which record label first signed Nirvana?
Atlantic Records
Geffen Records
DGC Records
Sub Pop
Nirvana's debut album, 'Bleach', was released by Sub Pop in 1989. Sub Pop was a Seattle-based independent label instrumental in popularizing the grunge movement. The band later signed to DGC/Geffen for 'Nevermind' and subsequent releases.
The cover of 'Nevermind' features a baby swimming towards what object?
Dollar bill on a fish hook
A butterfly net
A floating guitar
A bottle of milk
The iconic cover of 'Nevermind' shows a naked baby underwater reaching for a dollar bill tied to a fish hook. This image symbolizes innocence chasing wealth and critiques consumer culture. The photograph was shot by Kirk Weddle.
Which genre best describes Nirvana's music?
Progressive rock
Pop punk
Heavy metal
Grunge
Nirvana is widely regarded as a pioneering grunge band, blending punk rock's raw energy with heavy metal's volume. Originating in Seattle in the late 1980s, grunge became a defining sound of the early 1990s. Nirvana's success brought the genre into the mainstream.
On which album did Nirvana release their cover of 'The Man Who Sold the World'?
From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah
MTV Unplugged in New York
Bleach
Incesticide
Nirvana's acoustic rendition of David Bowie's 'The Man Who Sold the World' appears on their MTV Unplugged in New York album. The haunting cover has become one of the most celebrated moments from the Unplugged set.
Who directed the music video for 'Smells Like Teen Spirit'?
Spike Jonze
Samuel Bayer
Michel Gondry
David Fincher
The music video for 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' was directed by Samuel Bayer. It features a high school gymnasium riot and is credited with defining the band's visual identity. The video won multiple MTV awards and remains iconic.
Which chronic health issue plagued Kurt Cobain?
Asthma
Diabetes
Epilepsy
Chronic bronchitis
Kurt Cobain suffered from chronic bronchitis, which often caused him respiratory issues and affected his performances. He also struggled with stomach pain, later attributed to an undiagnosed condition. These health problems contributed to his discomfort on tour.
Which band significantly influenced Cobain's songwriting with their loud-quiet-loud dynamic?
The Beatles
Pixies
The Ramones
Metallica
Kurt Cobain repeatedly cited the Pixies as a major influence, particularly their use of quiet verses and loud choruses. This dynamic became a hallmark of Nirvana's own songwriting style. Cobain praised the Pixies in interviews and credits.
Nirvana's first European tour took place in which year?
1989
1992
1991
1990
Nirvana embarked on their first European tour in late 1991, following the success of 'Nevermind'. They played major cities across the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia, firmly establishing their international reputation.
What was the name of Nirvana's first drummer?
Dave Grohl
Aaron Burckhard
Chad Channing
Dale Crover
Aaron Burckhard was Nirvana's original drummer, playing with the band during its very early formation in 1987. He recorded some of their first demos before being replaced by Chad Channing. Burckhard's tenure helped establish the group's initial sound.
On which studio album does the song 'Drain You' appear?
In Utero
Nevermind
Bleach
Incesticide
'Drain You' is the fifth track on Nirvana's 1991 album 'Nevermind'. The song showcases Cobain's melodic sensibility and dynamic shifts. It remains a fan favorite and a staple of the band's catalog.
Which Nirvana single was banned by the BBC for explicit lyrics?
Rape Me
Smells Like Teen Spirit
Lithium
Come as You Are
The BBC banned 'Rape Me' in 1993 due to its provocative title and perceived endorsement of sexual violence, despite its anti-rape message. The song appears on the album 'In Utero'. Its censorship sparked debates about artistic expression and media responsibility.
Which compilation album, featuring B-sides and rarities, was released in 1992?
Incesticide
In Utero
Bleach
Nevermind
'Incesticide' was released in December 1992 and compiles B-sides, rarities, and radio broadcasts from 1988 to 1991. The album includes covers and non-album tracks, giving fans insight into Nirvana's development. It was issued by Geffen Records between 'Nevermind' and 'In Utero'.
The dollar bill on the 'Nevermind' cover is attached to what object?
String
Fish hook
Key
Net
On the 'Nevermind' cover, a dollar bill floats underwater, suspended on a fish hook, toward a baby swimming below. The image is a commentary on the pursuit of money and consumerism. Photographer Kirk Weddle captured the shot in a pool in Pasadena.
Who originally wrote the song 'D-7' that Nirvana covered?
Sonic Youth
Wipers
Pixies
The Melvins
The song 'D-7' was originally written and recorded by the Wipers for their 1980 album 'Is This Real?'. Nirvana's cover appears on the 1992 compilation 'Incesticide'. Cobain admired the Wipers' work and helped bring them wider attention.
Kurt Cobain's suicide note quotes 'It's better to burn out than to fade away' originally from which artist?
Lou Reed
Bob Dylan
Neil Young
John Lennon
In his suicide note, Cobain paraphrased the line 'It's better to burn out than to fade away', taken from Neil Young's song 'Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)'. The phrase resonated with Cobain's sense of artistic integrity and the pressures of fame.
Who photographed the iconic baby image on the 'Nevermind' album cover?
Anton Corbijn
Robert Fisher
Herb Ritts
Kirk Weddle
Photographer Kirk Weddle shot the underwater image of the baby chasing a dollar bill for the 'Nevermind' album cover. The photo was taken in a Pasadena pool in February 1991. Weddle's work became one of rock's most recognizable images.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Define "Kurt Cobain IQ" -

    Understand what the quiz's IQ score indicates about your grasp of Kurt Cobain's life and career.

  2. Recall key biographical facts -

    Retrieve important details about Cobain's early years, influences, and personal milestones.

  3. Identify iconic Nirvana works -

    Recognize major albums and hit songs that solidified Nirvana's place in rock history.

  4. Analyze legendary performances -

    Examine standout live shows and televised appearances that defined Nirvana's stage presence.

  5. Evaluate challenging trivia -

    Distinguish between casual knowledge and in-depth facts to test your true fan status.

  6. Interpret your fan level -

    Use your quiz results to gauge your Nirvana fandom and compare your Kurt Cobain IQ with others.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Early Life and Influences -

    Kurt Cobain was born on February 20, 1967, in Aberdeen, Washington, and grew up immersed in punk and rock acts like the Melvins and Black Flag (Biography.com). Remember "Evergreen '67" as a mnemonic: Evergreen State + birth year helps boost your kurt cobain iq on early biography trivia.

  2. Formation of Nirvana -

    In 1987, Cobain teamed up with Krist Novoselic and later Dave Grohl to form Nirvana, a band name he chose from a dictionary to signify transcendent bliss (Rolling Stone). Think "Nevermind Roots" to recall Nirvana's original lineup when tackling any nirvana quiz question.

  3. Breakthrough With "Smells Like Teen Spirit" -

    Released in September 1991 on the album Nevermind, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" propelled Nirvana to global fame by topping U.S. and U.K. charts (Official Charts Company). To ace your kurt cobain quiz, note that this single spent 20 weeks in the Billboard Top 10.

  4. Songwriting Style and Dynamics -

    Cobain's trademark "quiet-loud-quiet" structure - soft verses exploding into heavy choruses - redefined alternative rock (Journal of Musicology). Use the "QLQ" formula in your mind to easily recall this pattern during any nirvana frontman quiz segment.

  5. Enduring Legacy and Honors -

    Despite his 1994 passing, Cobain's impact endures: Nirvana was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, and his influence shapes modern rock (RockHall.com). Remember "Hall '14" as a quick staple for trivia about Kurt's posthumous recognition.

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