Kurt Cobain – Come As You Are

About the song

Released on March 2, 1992, “Come As You Are” is one of the standout tracks from Nirvana’s landmark album, “Nevermind”. This song epitomizes the raw, emotive essence of Kurt Cobain‘s songwriting, capturing the spirit of the early 90s grunge movement.

“Come As You Are” features Cobain’s signature blend of gritty guitar riffs and introspective lyrics, offering a sense of both invitation and ambivalence. The song’s chorus, with its famous line, “Come as you are, as you were,” invites listeners to embrace their authentic selves while grappling with the contradictions of identity and acceptance. Cobain’s delivery, combined with the song’s haunting melody, resonates with themes of personal integrity and the struggle between public perception and private reality.

The impact of “Come As You Are” was profound, resonating deeply within the cultural landscape of the early 90s. It became an anthem for a generation disillusioned with the excesses of the 80s, reflecting the angst and discontent of youth. The song’s success was a significant factor in the rise of Nirvana and the grunge genre, which challenged the mainstream rock scene and influenced countless artists.

Socially, the song mirrored the broader shifts of its time, symbolizing a break from conventional norms and a call for authenticity. “Come As You Are” played a crucial role in the Nevermind album’s critical acclaim, which not only propelled Nirvana into the limelight but also redefined rock music’s landscape.

For those revisiting “Come As You Are,” it remains a powerful reminder of Kurt Cobain‘s ability to articulate the complexities of human emotion and identity, making it an enduring classic in rock history.

Video

Lyrics

Come as you are, as you were
As I want you to be
As a friend, as a friend
As an old enemy
Take your time, hurry up
Choice is yours, don’t be late
Take a rest as a friend
As an old memoria

Memoria
Memoria
Memoria

Come doused in mud, soaked in bleach
As I want you to be
As a trend, as a friend
As an old memoria

Memoria
Memoria
Memoria

And I swear that I don’t have a gun
No, I don’t have a gun
No, I don’t have a gun

Memoria
Memoria
Memoria
Memoria (No, I don’t have a gun)

And I swear that I don’t have a gun
No, I don’t have a gun
No, I don’t have a gun
No, I don’t have a gun
No, I don’t have a gun

Memoria
Memoria