The Best Grunge Music from 1992
Contents
A look at the best grunge music from 1992 and how it still holds up today.
What is Grunge Music?
Grunge music is a subgenre of alternative rock that emerged in the early 1990s. It was characterized by heavy guitar distortion, grungy vocals, and a generally “dirty” sound. Grunge music was born out of the Seattle music scene and was made popular by bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden.
The Best Grunge Music from 1992
Grunge music from 1992 was some of the best ever made. The grunge scene was at its peak and there were so many great bands making great music. Some of the best grunge music from 1992 includes Nirvana’s “In Utero”, Alice in Chains’ “Dirt”, Soundgarden’s “Badmotorfinger”, and Pearl Jam’s “Ten”. There are so many other great grunge albums from 1992, but these are some of the best.
Nirvana- Smells Like Teen Spirit
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is one of the defining songs of the grunge movement. The song was released as the lead single from Nirvana’s second album, Nevermind, in September 1991. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” quickly became a punk and alternative rock anthem, propelling Nirvana to the level of mainstream success. The song contains elements of pop, punk, and heavy metal, and it has been covered by numerous artists.
Pearl Jam- Alive
Alive is a song by American rock band Pearl Jam, released as the first single from the band’s debut album Ten in 1991. The song peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The cover art features a photograph of bassist Jeff Ament bending over while playing the bass guitar, taken by bass tech Steve Pederson. Reportedly, upon first seeing the cover art, guitarist Stone Gossard commented: “That looks like a cock to me.”
Soundgarden- Black Hole Sun
One of the most influential grunge songs of all time, “Black Hole Sun” was released by Soundgarden in 1994 on their album Superunknown. The song was written by frontman Chris Cornell, and features a slow, methodical verse that crescendos into a huge, anthemic chorus. The lyrics are dark and mysterious, and the song’s signature distorted guitar riff is unforgettable. “Black Hole Sun” became one of Soundgarden’s biggest hits, reaching #1 on the Mainstream Rock charts and winning a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance.
Alice in Chains- Would?
Would? is a song by the American rock band Alice in Chains, released as the lead single from their third studio album, Dirt (1992). The song was co-written by guitarist/vocalist Jerry Cantrell and singer Layne Staley, and was produced by Dave Jerden. “Would?” was released as a single in May 1992 and peaked at number two on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The music video for “Would?” features concert footage of the band while they were on tour in support of Dirt.
Stone Temple Pilots- Sex Type Thing
Stone Temple Pilots were one of the defining bands of the grunge era, and “Sex Type Thing” is one of their most iconic songs. The song is a searing commentary on rape culture, and it’s as relevant today as it was when it was released in 1992.
