Back in the 1990s, the grunge genre dominated the rock music scene. Also known as the Seattle sound, the genre and subculture emerged in the mid-1980s, primarily in Seattle and nearby towns. Grunge combines punk rock and heavy metal elements, and the lyrics explore the themes of teenage angst, self-doubt, isolation, traumas, and other similar issues.
Back in those days, the genre’s most commercially successful acts were Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, and Stone Temple Pilots. Due to the musical success of those bands, alternative rock and grunge became the most famous rock music subgenre at that time.
With their groundbreaking releases, such as ‘Nevermind’ and ‘Ten,’ Nirvana and Pearl Jam brought grunge into the mainstream. The 1960s rock music influenced both bands, and among those influences, the Rolling Stones was an important one, with some of their songs reflecting the same themes as grunge.
Observing the 1990’s rock music scene, Mick Jagger made some comments regarding Pearl Jam and Nirvana. As it seems, the iconic frontman liked Pearl Jam better. Let’s learn why Mick Jagger preferred Pearl Jam’s music to Nirvana’s.
Mick Jagger Stated He Prefers Pearl Jam Over Nirvana As Nirvana Is Too Angst-Ridden For Him
In a 1996 interview with Rolling Stone, Mick Jagger shared his thoughts on the popular music of that era. He stated that he doesn’t really like it and revealed he is not a fan of Nirvana as the band is too angst-ridden for him.
Moreover, Jagger stated he likes Pearl Jam and actually prefers them to many other rock bands. Saying that numerous grunge bands are exploring the angst theme in their music and lyrics, the musician said it doesn’t appeal to him as he is not a ‘morose’ person.
Speaking about rock bands of the 1990s, Mick Jagger told Rolling Stones in the interview:
“I’m not in love with things at the moment. I was never crazy about Nirvana – too angst-ridden for me. I like Pearl Jam, I prefer them to a lot of other bands. There’s a lot of angst in a lot of it, which is one of the great things to tap into. But I’m not a fan of moroseness.“
It is a well-known fact that Mick Jagger is one of the most energetic and lively frontmen in the rock music scene. Considering Nirvana’s heavy sound and way of handling depressive themes in their songs, it is not a surprise that Pearl Jam appealed to him more.
