Nirvana fans got an unexpected yet fitting tribute last weekend when the surviving members—Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and touring guitarist Pat Smear—took the stage at Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary celebration.
But the real surprise? Post Malone stepping in on vocals to tear through Smells Like Teen Spirit.
The collaboration might have raised a few eyebrows, but Posty’s love for Nirvana seems to run deep. Back in 2020, he delivered a widely praised Nirvana tribute livestream, covering Come As You Are, Heart-Shaped Box, Lithium, and more, all while raising money for the World Health Organisation. Travis Barker handled drums for that session, but this time, Post Malone found himself backed by the real deal.
His ability to channel Kurt Cobain’s raw energy was on full display as he pushed his voice to its limits, taking on one of rock’s most recognisable anthems. The raspy, unpolished grit in his performance made it clear—he wasn’t just paying homage; he was fully in it.
The band has been making more appearances lately, keeping the Nirvana legacy alive in new ways. Last year, they played FireAid, with guest vocalists including Grohl’s daughter Violet, proving they’re still willing to step back into the spotlight when the moment is right.
Nirvana officially ended with Cobain’s passing in 1994, but their music never really left the conversation. Whether it’s Foo Fighters carrying the torch, Grohl’s endless list of collaborations, or surprise performances like this, their influence refuses to fade.
With the cover, Post Malone proves again that he is far more than just a rap star. His ability to blur the lines between genres has made him one of the most versatile artists in modern music. From hip-hop and R&B to country, rock, and even metal, he’s always been a shape-shifter, seamlessly moving between sounds without losing his identity. Whether he’s collaborating with Ozzy Osbourne, covering Alice in Chains, or stepping in for Nirvana, Posty continues to defy expectations and challenge the idea of what a mainstream artist can be.
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