September 24: Grunge Explodes Into The Mainstream With Nirvana’s Album…

On this day in 1991, Nirvana released Nevermind, an album that would reshape the landscape of rock music. Led by the explosive single “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” the Seattle-based band broke through the mainstream with their raw grunge sound, which captured the angst of a generation. Produced by Butch Vig and recorded at Sound City Studios, Nevermind catapulted Nirvana into rock superstardom, eventually selling over 30 million copies worldwide. The album’s influence on alternative rock and pop culture remains unmatched to this day.

In 1988, Australian rock band Midnight Oil released Diesel and Dust in the US, featuring their environmentally-conscious anthem “Beds Are Burning.” The album helped Midnight Oil break into the international market, with its powerful lyrics reflecting Australia’s political and social landscape.

In 1996, Crowded House announced their breakup, devastating fans around the world. Frontman Neil Finn would go on to have a successful solo career, while the band would later reunite in 2006.

In 1968, The Beatles released their hit single “Hey Jude” in the US the song went on to become one of the band’s most beloved and commercially successful tracks, staying at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks.