SESAC, the nation’s most progressive performing rights organization, will now represent Kurt Cobain’s complete catalog, including his work on the groundbreaking Nirvana albums. The alternative rock band defined a generation ushering in the genre known as ‘grunge’ and, perhaps unintentionally, catapulted Cobain into the spotlight as a spokesperson for Generation X. Having written such hits for the band like “All Apologies,” “Heart-Shaped Box,” “Come as You Are” and the classic “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” Cobain is widely recognized as one of rock music’s revered songwriters and most influential talents.
“We are very pleased to represent the Kurt Cobain catalog,” said Trevor Gale, SESAC Senior Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations. “His impact on music is undeniable, especially with the success of the Nirvana records. Cobain’s songwriting was the foundation for the group’s success and his music continues to inspire. We are honored to represent the work of this groundbreaking artist.”
Nirvana’s debut album, Bleach, was released in 1989 and was followed by the landmark Nevermind album in 1991 and In Utero in 1993. Even twenty years after his death, Cobain remains a legendary musical icon whose influence on music and culture is immeasurable. Nirvana is being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 10 this year at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. This is Nirvana’s first year of eligibility (the band’s first single, “Love Buzz,” came out in 1988) and will be inducted alongside KISS, Peter Gabriel, Hall and Oates, Cat Stevens, and Linda Ronstadt.
