In a recent interview with Howard Stern, legendary Queen guitarist Brian May praised the late Kurt Cobain as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, shedding light on the essence of what makes an artist truly great. May’s reverence for the Nirvana frontman’s raw talent and emotive expression illustrates the power of music to transcend technical prowess and connect on a deeper, more personal level.
Kurt Cobain, the iconic frontman of the groundbreaking band Nirvana, left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. With his distinctive style and passionate delivery, Cobain created a legacy of unforgettable guitar riffs and melodies that continue to resonate with fans today. Despite not being known for flashy technical skills, Cobain’s ability to pour his emotions into his playing was undeniably powerful and captivating.
May, in a new interview, expressed his admiration for Cobain’s approach to the guitar. The musician emphasized that his own style of playing comes from a place of raw emotion and instinct, much like Cobain’s. He believes that making the guitar an extension of one’s voice is the key to creating a profound connection with the audience. In May’s view, technical prowess is not the ultimate measure of a guitarist’s greatness; instead, it’s about the emotional depth and authenticity of their music.
The Queen guitarist’s respect for Cobain also highlights the importance of recognizing that guitar playing is not a competition. He argued that there is no need for musicians to feel like they have something to prove, as true greatness comes from one’s ability to express themselves through their instrument. By citing Cobain as an example, May underscored the notion that even without a strong technical foundation, a musician can still make a significant impact on the world of music.
Here are Brian May’s opinions on guitar playing and Cobain:
“All I ever did really was play the way I feel and make the guitar my voice. I play like I would like to sing. I’m not the world’s greatest singer. Not the world’s greatest guitarist either, but thank you for saying so. I can speak with the guitar. I can make it sing, and that’s all I do. It just comes from inside, and I don’t think any guitarist should feel like they have anything to prove.
It’s not a competition. You know, Kurt Cobain is a great example. There’s not a lot of technical stuff there, and he didn’t work that hard at being technical, yet, he gives us a legacy of some of the greatest guitar music of all time. So it’s not about that technique; it’s about what you put into it. What you feel and how that feeling gets across in your guitar playing.”
The conversation with Brian May serves as a powerful reminder that the essence of music lies in its ability to evoke emotions and connect with listeners on a deeper level. It is not about showcasing technical skills or competing with other musicians, but rather about sharing one’s unique voice and vision through the art of playing an instrument. Kurt Cobain’s enduring influence as a guitarist is a testament to the truth of May’s words, proving that genuine emotion and raw talent can transcend any perceived limitations.
