In a recent episode of the popular talk show, “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” an intriguing discussion took place about the iconic band Nirvana and their journey towards their first arena tour. During the conversation, the talk show host, Conan O’Brien, and his guest, Pat Smear, delved into the fascinating story of how Smear joined Nirvana and the impact he had on the band’s sound and dynamics.
As the transcript reveals, Smear’s addition to Nirvana was a significant moment in the band’s history. Smear, previously known for his punk rock legacy with the band Germs, surprised everyone with his brilliant musicality and infectious energy. O’Brien expressed his initial skepticism, expecting a “disgusting fat junkie,” but was pleasantly surprised by Smear’s wonderful personality and artistic contributions.
One aspect of Smear’s role in Nirvana that stood out was his ability to handle technical aspects, allowing Kurt Cobain to focus more on his performance and singing. This arrangement brought a whole new life to the band and allowed them to explore their music in exciting ways. Smear’s presence also brought a certain attitude and resilience, as evidenced by a memorable anecdote shared during the conversation.
During a show early on in their opening night of the tour, a less-than-favorable review was published, causing frustration among the band members. However, Smear lightened the mood by playfully acknowledging the band’s performance flaws, commenting, “Come on, we sucked!” This lighthearted response showcased Smear’s ability to bring levity to challenging situations, making him a valuable addition to the group.
O’Brien further highlighted the connection between Smear’s punk rock roots with the Germs and Nirvana‘s unique sound. Both bands had an uneasy, slightly sleazy quality that resonated with fans. Smear’s guitar playing added a touch of sourness and creepiness, creating a distinct sonic flavor that perfectly complemented Nirvana‘s music.
As the conversation progressed, O’Brien and Smear reminisced about their experience playing arenas for the first time. Admitting their initial apprehension, they feared their raw energy, which thrived in smaller venues, would not translate to larger rooms. However, the band managed to maintain their electrifying stage presence, captivating audiences in these new settings.
The transition to playing arenas came with its own set of challenges and unexpected changes. Suddenly, catering and other amenities became part of their touring experience. However, even the food choices became a source of tension, as Smear humorously recounted the story of their caterer getting fired for making the wrong mac and cheese. The band’s transition from small shows to arena concerts brought about a mixture of excitement, strange adjustments, and a new level of professionalism.
What made this episode even more exciting for fans was the revelation of the opening acts for Nirvana‘s arena tour. From The Boredoms to the Butthole Surfers, the band brought out unexpected and eclectic artists that might have puzzled some fans. One notable opener was the comedian, Bobcat Goldthwait, who had previously met Kurt Cobain and developed a connection. The unlikely combination of a punk rock band and a comedian added an element of surprise and excitement to the shows.
Overall, this episode of “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” provided viewers with a captivating glimpse into the history of Nirvana and the impact of Pat Smear‘s involvement. It revealed the resilience and adaptability of the band as they ventured into uncharted territory, continuously pushing the boundaries of their music. The conversation between O’Brien and Smear was filled with lively anecdotes and laughter, underscoring the importance of camaraderie and friendship in the world of music.
